Whenever an Indian plays a game of word association and the word ‘vacation’ comes up, our mind always jumps to Goa. No doubt about it, India has no dearth of beautiful retreats, but you’re lying to yourself if your list doesn’t include the state of beaches and casinos. Often compared to a host of cities, from Las Vegas to Miami, from Macau to Bali, Goa really does have something to offer for everyone, no matter the amount of money in their pockets or what stuff they like to do. The nocturnals have their casinos, the history-nerds have museums and cathedrals for days, and those who really just want to chill out for a while can find their peace of mind nestled in one of the state’s myriad beaches, as the sun descends into the depths of the Arabian Sea.
Reading that must have given you a rush of nostalgia for the city, and possibly a sense of disappointment that the quarantine prevents you from rushing over and taking it in. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered, with this list of movies you can watch this weekend that’ll immerse you in the city and its culture from the comfort of your own home.
Dil Chahta Hai
Farhan Akhtar’s first venture as a director is an unmissable, ageless classic, which you can rewatch for days without getting bored. Aamir Khan, Akshaye Khanna and Saif Ali Khan play a trio of best friends with distinct personalities, backgrounds and interests, and their journey is a coming-of-age tale for the ages. In the course of the story, the three take a boys’ trip to Goa as the title track plays, a montage which features some of the state’s best attractions like Anjuna Beach, Vagator Beach, Chapora Fort and Aguada Fort.
Streaming on Netflix and Prime Video
Dear Zindagi
This movie made waves for its progressive depiction of mental health and treatment, featuring Shah Rukh Khan playing an unconventional psychologist to Alia Bhatt’s troubled youngster, and her journey towards accepting her trauma, dealing with it, and coming out the side having learnt more about herself and the world around her. In the course of his ‘treatment’ SRK takes her around Goa, as the movie documents Goa’s Portuguese architecture, narrow cobblestone lanes and beaches. This movie is a must-watch.
Streaming on Netflix
Finding Fanny
Five delightfully complex characters with clashing personalities hit the road to find Ferdie’s lost love in this underrated gem. This trip allows the viewer to visit a bunch of picturesque locations like Assagao Village, Siolim Bridge, Three Kings’ Church, St Jacinto Bridge, Divar Island and other places without having to move an inch, which is what life is all about when you think about it.
Streaming on Disney+Hotstar
