Published: 12:04 AM, 11 August 2026
Akshaye-Dimple romance remains a standout theme in ‘Dil Chahta Hai’
Twenty-five years after its release, Farhan Akhtar’s Dil Chahta Hai continues to attract attention for its fresh take on friendship, relationships and the challenges of growing up.
The 2001 film, which marked Akhtar’s debut as a filmmaker, is remembered for its portrayal of close friendship, road trips, changing relationships and the uncertainties of young adulthood. But one of its most notable themes was the unconventional romance between Siddharth, played by Akshaye Khanna, and Tara Jaiswal, portrayed by Dimple Kapadia.
Siddharth is shown as a quiet, thoughtful painter who develops feelings for Tara, a divorced, middle-aged interior designer who lives alone. Their relationship challenged the usual idea of what an acceptable romantic pairing should look like in mainstream Hindi cinema.
Rather than focusing on a conventional love story, the film explored how emotional connection can develop between two people from different generations.
Siddharth’s relationship with Tara grows through their conversations about art, books and life. His approach to love is also different from that of his two close friends, Akash, played by Aamir Khan, and Sameer, played by Saif Ali Khan.
When Siddharth’s mother and friends object to his feelings for Tara, he refuses to hide them or apologize for falling in love.
His relationship with Akash becomes strained after Akash makes fun of his feelings. His mother also questions his decision, reflecting the social pressure surrounding relationships that do not fit traditional expectations.
Tara herself initially rejects Siddharth’s feelings. She tells him that his emotions are unrealistic and insists that she never encouraged him or gave him false hope. Her reaction reflects the same social concerns that trouble those around Siddharth.
