Laila-Majnu (1976)
A timeless Bollywood retelling of the legendary Arab love story, brought to life by Rishi Kapoor and Ranjeeta Kaur.
Laila-Majnu - Movie Information
- Original Title: Laila-Majnu
- Release Year: 1976
- Directed by: Harnam Singh Rawail
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Romance
- Runtime: 2h 30m
- Original Language: Hindi
- Spoken Languages: Hindi
- Release Date (Theatrical): November 11, 1976 (India)
- Production Countries: India
Laila-Majnu - Plot
Kaish Amari comes from a wealthy Arab family. At the tender age of six he is sent to school and gets friendly with a young girl named Laila.
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Laila-Majnu - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Harnam Singh Rawail
Main Cast
- Rishi Kapoor
- Ranjeeta Kaur
- Danny Denzongpa
- Aruna Irani
- Asrani
- Kanwarjeet Paintal
- Raza Murad
- Iftekhar
- Achala Sachdev
- Preeti Ganguli
Laila-Majnu - FAQs
What is Laila-Majnu (1976) about?
Laila-Majnu follows Kaish Amari, a young man from a wealthy Arab family, who falls deeply in love with Laila from childhood. Their bond blossoms into an all-consuming romance, but social barriers and family opposition stand between them, turning their love story into a heartbreaking tale of devotion and sacrifice.
Is Laila-Majnu based on a true story or legend?
The film draws from the ancient Arabic legend of Qays and Layla, one of the most celebrated love stories in Middle Eastern and South Asian literature. The tale dates back to 7th-century Arabia and has inspired countless poems, songs, and films across centuries, making it a cornerstone of romantic folklore.
Who are the lead actors in Laila-Majnu?
Rishi Kapoor and Ranjeeta Kaur play the iconic title roles of Majnu and Laila. The supporting cast features Danny Denzongpa, Aruna Irani, Asrani, and Iftekhar, among others, rounding out a strong ensemble that brings this legendary romance to vivid life.
Who directed the 1976 film Laila-Majnu?
Harnam Singh Rawail directed Laila-Majnu. Rawail was a seasoned Bollywood filmmaker known for his work on romantic and dramatic productions, and he brought considerable visual flair and emotional depth to this adaptation of the beloved classical legend.
When was Laila-Majnu (1976) released in India?
Laila-Majnu hit Indian cinemas on November 11, 1976. The film arrived during a golden era of Bollywood romance, and its release was eagerly anticipated by fans of the legendary source story as well as admirers of its young lead, Rishi Kapoor.
Does Laila-Majnu have a happy ending?
True to its legendary source material, Laila-Majnu does not end happily. The story follows the tragic arc of the original folklore, in which the lovers are kept apart by fate and society. Their separation and ultimate fate have made this one of the most emotionally resonant narratives in South Asian cinema.
What are some films similar to Laila-Majnu?
If you enjoyed Laila-Majnu, you might also love Mohabbatein (2000), Jab We Met (2007), Betaab (1983), and Anarkali (1953) — all classic Bollywood romances with sweeping emotional arcs. For something more recent, Hasee Toh Phasee (2014) and Laal Singh Chaddha (2022) offer fresh takes on enduring love stories.
How long is the 1976 film Laila-Majnu?
Laila-Majnu runs for 2 hours and 30 minutes. That runtime gives the film ample space to develop the emotional journey of its two central characters, weaving in songs, dramatic confrontations, and the full sweep of their doomed romance in the grand tradition of classic Bollywood storytelling.
More About Laila-Majnu
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