
Dil Se..(1998)
Dil Se.. is a 1998 Indian Hindi-language romantic thriller film written and directed by Mani Ratnam. It stars Shah Rukh Khan, Manisha Koirala, and Preity Zinta in her debut role. The story follows Amar, a radio journalist who becomes obsessed with a mysterious woman named Meghna, who is secretly a militant suicide bomber. Set against the backdrop of the insurgency in Northeast India, the film blends romance with political conflict. Its soundtrack, composed by A. R. Rahman, became a massive hit and is considered one of the best in Indian cinema. The cinematography by Santosh Sivan won the National Film Award for Best Cinematography. Dil Se.. was released on 21 August 1998 and is available to stream on various platforms.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix
- OTT Release Date
- 22 November 1999
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 1998
- Director
- Mani Ratnam
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 43m
- Rating
- 6.2/10
Storyline
Amar, a radio journalist, falls in love with a mysterious woman he meets at a train station. She keeps running away from him. He discovers she is a suicide bomber for a militant group. He must choose between saving her or stopping her attack.
“Love that burns beyond death.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew






Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Dil Se..
Cast reunions in this film: Mani Ratnam & A. R. Rahman (20 films together), Santosh Sivan & A. R. Rahman (8 films together), Santosh Sivan & Mani Ratnam (6 films together), Manisha Koirala & A. R. Rahman (5 films together), A. R. Rahman & Shahrukh Khan (5 films together), and A. R. Rahman & Janagaraj (5 films together).
Trivia
- The film's climax was shot at the actual Dal Lake in Srinagar, but the crew had to wrap up quickly due to rising political tensions.
- Shah Rukh Khan performed the 'Chaiyya Chaiyya' song sequence on a moving train roof without a body double, despite his fear of heights.
- The film was a box office failure in India upon release but later gained a cult following, especially for its music and cinematography.
- Mani Ratnam initially wanted A.R. Rahman to compose only the background score, but Rahman ended up doing the entire soundtrack.
- The character Meghna was inspired by real-life accounts of women involved in militant movements in conflict zones.
- The film's title 'Dil Se..' translates to 'From the Heart,' reflecting its intense emotional themes of love and conflict.
- It was the first Hindi film to be shot in the remote and scenic regions of Ladakh, showcasing its landscapes prominently.

