5 Indian Period Dramas with Romance to Watch Instead of Bridgerton

With The Great cancelled, Bridgerton's new season not landing on Netflix for over a year, and all other British period dramas having been rewatched multiple times, fans of the historical romance genre might be feeling a bit lost this fall.

Fortunately, the American and British film and TV industries aren't the only ones producing high-quality content. Bollywood and Tollywood are also in the game, having put out some exceptional period dramas over the years.

Here are five outstanding Indian period projects with compelling romantic storylines to expand your horizons.

The Baahubali Franchise (2015, 2017)

This two-part franchise - The Beginning and The Conclusion - is set in mediaeval India. It follows a young man of mysterious origins and a resistance member as they team up to rescue the former queen of the kingdom from an evil emperor, all while falling in love.

Stunning music and visuals combined with a sweeping, epic fantasy setting offer a thrilling viewing experience.

Bajirao Mastani (2015)

Set in 1720, this movie tells the captivating true story of a prime minister of the Maratha Empire who falls in love with a warrior princess and takes her as his second wife, causing controversy in his family and country.

The film features remarkable music and choreography, striking a great balance between political intrigue, melodrama, and romance.

Rudramadevi (2015)

Set in the 13th century, this movie is based on the life of Rudrama Devi, one of the few and most successful ruling queens in Indian history. It covers her life from birth to her ascension to the throne, with the story brimming with drama, political intrigue, and romance.

Grahan (2021)

For those who enjoy 20th-century history, the eight-episode miniseries Grahan is an excellent choice. It centres on a young police officer investigating the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which are directly linked to her own family.

The investigation gradually uncovers a beautiful old-world romance story of trust, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice.

Stories by Rabindranath Tagore (2015)

This series comprises one season consisting of 26 episodes, each featuring a classic short story by Bengali writer and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

All the stories are set against the backdrop of a conservative Indian society in 1920s Bengal and focus on relationships marked by human flaws and idiosyncrasies. Tagore's protagonists are often self-assured, opinionated women who are ahead of their times.