Explore 5 Popular Books That Inspired Bollywood Movies

Many Bollywood blockbusters are recognised for taking inspiration from literature. These movies are directed to turn timeless stories into cinematic masterpieces and bring imagination to life. While there have been many such books, certain stories stand out for their emotional depth, thrilling story, and relatable tales. And if you want to start a reading habit in 2026, nothing can beat the thrill of these popular books that inspired Bollywood movies. From emotional tragedies to tales of friendship, there's a book for every genre.

Immerse yourself in thrilling tales with these popular books that inspired Bollywood movies; Photo Credit: Pexels

If you are tired of reading motivational or self-help books, this article can help you out. We have narrowed down 5 popular books that inspired Bollywood blockbuster movies such as 3 Idiots, Omkara, and Devdas. Get ready to read the tales with brilliant storytelling and language that speaks to the heart.

Also Read: Best Ruskin Bond Books for 7-Year-Old Kids: Gentle Reads That Spark Imagination

Top Deals On Popular Books That Inspired Bollywood Movies

1. The Blue Umbrella 

Written by Ruskin Bond, The Blue Umbrella is a heartwarming tale that aims to portray the innocence of childhood. Set in a Himalayan village, the story revolves around a little girl and her blue umbrella. This simple desire made her the centre of attention, leading the story to a plot filled with greed and forgiveness. Moreover, this novel was later adapted into a movie, which won the National Film Award for Best Children's Film.

Key Features

• Simple and easy to understand plot
• Carries themes of jealousy, forgiveness, and innocence
• Suitable for all age groups
• Lightweight and compact novel for travelling
• Ideal for beginners 

2. Othello

Othello is one of the most popular tragic works of William Shakespeare. It revolves around themes of love, jealousy, anger, and betrayal. This masterpiece revolves around Othello, the protagonist, his wife Desdemona, and Cassio, leading to a tragic ending. It has inspired the famous Bollywood movie Omkara, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj.

Key Features

• Suitable for adults 
• Extremely engaging story 
• Explore themes of jealousy, love, and betrayal
• Rich poetic language 
• One of the highly acknowledged tragedies

3. Devdas

Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's Devdas inspired the iconic Bollywood movie, which won thousands of hearts across the country. It is a tragic Bengali novel revolving around Devdas and Paro. This novel explores several mature themes like societal norms and class differences. It has great emotional depth, making it a must-read for everyone.

Key Features

• Suitable for readers who like mature themes
• A tale of love, devotion, and a tragic ending
• Explores feminine strength 
• Easy to read language
• Rich cultural setting

4. Calling Sehmat

Harinder Singh Sikka's Calling Sehmat is based on a true story of patriotism and sacrifice. It is based on the life of Sehmat, a young Kashmiri woman married into a Pakistani family who later serves as an undercover spy. This novel takes readers through mature themes of love, sacrifice, and moral conflict. It is a thrilling and engaging must-read for every reading enthusiast.

Key Features

• Based on true-life events
• Features a historical setting
• Thrilling and fast-paced narration
• Carries emotional and moral depth for adults
• Inspired the Bollywood blockbuster Raazi

5. Five Point Someone: What Not To Do At IIT

The next popular book that inspired a Bollywood hit is Five Point Someone: What Not To Do At IIT by Chetan Bhagat. This book revolves around the story of three protagonists, Hari, Ryan, and Alok, who navigate life in one of the toughest learning centres. It carries the emotional depth of several mature themes and offers lessons for young students.

Key Features

• Explores friendship, academic pressure, and modes of learning 
• Suitable for all age groups
• Contains a lighthearted story
• Led to 3 Idiots, a massive blockbuster hit
• Contains lessons for students

Whether you are an avid reader or building this habit, these books can be a great way to start. They carry interesting stories that'll keep you hooked for hours. Plus, every book is based on certain themes that add moral and cultural depth to the story. In other words, they can be your next unforgettable piece of literature. Shop now on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Bollywood movies are inspired by books?

Some popular Bollywood movies that are adapted from books include 3 Idiots, Maqbool, Aisha, and Kai Po Che!

2. Which Bollywood movie was inspired by the book Five Point Someone?

3 Idiots is the blockbuster hit that was inspired by Chetan Bhagat's Five Point Someone.

3. Which novel is the popular Bollywood film Guide based on?

The popular film Guide (1965) is based on R. K. Narayan's The Guide. 

4. Which book is Fitoor based on?

Fitoor is based on Charles Dickens' Great Expectations. It has reimagined the entire plot in a Kashmiri setting.

5. Which movies are based on Chetan Bhagat's books?

Chetan Bhagat's books have led to several Bollywood movies, such as 3 Idiots, Kai Po Che!, Half Girlfriend, and 2 States.