If there’s one film that captures the essence of a place while provoking deep thoughts about love, life, and everything in between, it’s undoubtedly Laila Majnu. Released in 2018 and filmed extensively in the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, I had never considered watching it until 2024. It was then, in the breathtaking landscape of Kashmir, that I finally watched the film for the first time. Watching a love story, filled with agony and longing, in the very setting where it was filmed, was an exceptionally nostalgic experience.
In August 2024, when Laila Majnu was re-released, it quickly sparked a craze among audiences. I had spent over 15 days exploring the natural beauty of Kashmir, and during my final two days in Srinagar, I decided to catch this film in theaters. As expected, the screening was filled with enthusiastic fans singing along to the song “O’Meri Laila.” However, after watching the movie, I felt something shift within me. Did I fall in love with Kashmir and its stunning scenery? Absolutely. Did the story move me to tears? Without a doubt. Did I find myself watching the film repeatedly? Yes, indeed! From my first viewing in August 2024 to my tenth re-watch in August 2025, Laila Majnu is a movie that’s hard to overlook. At unstumbled, we pride ourselves on providing honest reviews, so here’s our heartfelt take on Laila Majnu.
Star Cast And Other Details About Laila Majnu
The film stars Triptii Dimri as Laila and Avinash Tiwary as Qais Bhatt. Directed by Sajid Ali and presented by Imtiaz Ali, it takes you on a journey exploring the essence of true love, what it feels like to have it and the pain of losing it.
What is The Movie About
The narrative unfolds as a tragic love story between Laila and Qais. What begins as a light-hearted romance filled with excitement, joy, and sweetness takes a sharp turn into heart-wrenching sorrow.
Laila comes from a respected family and initially meets Qais, who is wealthy as well. Unsure about him, she asks him not to pursue her. Qais respects her wishes but leaves a note, giving her the option to connect later. They unexpectedly meet at a wedding, igniting their feelings despite family conflicts. When Laila’s family discovers their romance, they force her to marry Ibban, a political ally, under threats from her father. Mistakenly believing Qais disrespects her father, Laila ends their relationship. Time passes, and after four years, Qais returns home for his father’s funeral. Laila, now in an abusive marriage, seeks him out, revealing the emotional toll their separation has taken on them both. Determined to leave her husband, Laila seeks a divorce, but tragedy strikes when he dies in an accident. She plans to flee with Qais, but her father persuades her to wait.
Meanwhile, Qais believes their reunion will never happen, driving him into madness and hallucinations of Laila. Eventually, he struggles with reality. In a heart-wrenching climax, Laila dies clutching Qais’s note, symbolizing their bond. Qais rushes to her grave, and in his final moments, he sees her, reflecting their eternal love.
What Works
The performances, storyline, stunning locations, and themes of desire and melancholy blend seamlessly, evoking deep emotions that make you reflect on love. The soundtrack, featuring songs like “Hafiz Hafiz” and “O’Meri Laila,” draws you in and makes you fall in love with them. The cinematic beauty and breathtaking visuals not only captivate but also leave you in awe of how picturesque certain places can be. While it’s a film best enjoyed once for fans of romantic tales, it also conveys that love knows no limits, and not every love story ends happily.
What Doesn’t Work
The plot carries a low tone. This modern retelling of Laila and Majnu is sometimes overly dramatic, with elements that feel a bit far-fetched.
Where Was It Shot?
Filmed extensively in Kashmir, the movie showcases iconic spots like Dal Lake, Nishat Bagh, the Chai Jaai cafe, and the charming town of Pahalgam.
Final Verdict
If you enjoy love stories that go beyond mere romance and enjoy breathtaking scenery, this film is a must-watch.
