Bollywood's recipe for success isn't always a secret, with some films achieving iconic status through a blend of factors that resonate deeply with Indian audiences. Aashiqui (1990), Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994), and Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) exemplify this phenomenon, each achieving blockbuster status while sharing common threads.

One significant element contributing to their success is music. Aashiqui's soundtrack, composed by Nadeem-Shravan, was a major selling point, becoming the best-selling Bollywood soundtrack of all time. Gulshan Kumar, the producer, ensured the songs were popular before the film's release, a strategy that paid off immensely. Similarly, Hum Aapke Hain Koun featured an unusually large 14-song soundtrack by Raamlaxman, with nearly every song becoming a chartbuster. Ajit Kumar Barjatya noted that the music played a vital role in moving the story forward and keeping the audience engrossed. The music of Dil To Pagal Hai, composed by Uttam Singh, also became a major hit, contributing significantly to the film's success.

Another key factor is the focus on family and relationships. Hum Aapke Hain Koun celebrated Indian wedding traditions and family values, resonating strongly with middle-class family patrons. The film revolved around a married couple's story and the relationship between their families, emphasizing sacrificing love for family. This theme of family and sacrifice is a recurring element in many successful Bollywood films.

Casting also plays a crucial role. Hum Aapke Hain Koun starred Madhuri Dixit and Salman Khan, who established themselves as superstars with this film. Their chemistry and performances were widely appreciated, adding to the film's enduring appeal. Dil To Pagal Hai featured Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Karisma Kapoor, all established stars, with Karisma Kapoor's casting being a significant factor. The film's success also benefited from Shiamak Davar's groundbreaking choreography. Aashiqui featured relatively unknown actors, Rahul Roy and Anu Aggarwal, which allowed the audience to connect with them more easily. The focus was on the music and the story rather than the star power.

Furthermore, the timing of release and distribution strategies can significantly impact a film's success. Movies released during festivals and holidays tend to do well. Hum Aapke Hain Koun contributed to a change in the Indian film industry, with new distribution methods and a shift towards less violent stories. The film's success led to upgrades in many theaters to meet the widespread demand.

However, a successful movie career requires more than just talent; timing, luck, and killer scripts are also essential. While some argue that Bollywood relies on formulas, including love stories, music, and dance, these elements, when combined effectively, can create a film that resonates with a broad audience. Some common formulas include a handsome hero, a pretty girl, a love story with lots of singing and dancing, and a happy ending at a wedding. However, these formulas may be growing stale, as audiences are increasingly drawn to content-driven films and innovative storytelling from both Indian and international cinema.

In conclusion, the success of Aashiqui, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, and Dil To Pagal Hai can be attributed to a combination of factors, including memorable music, strong emphasis on family and relationships, effective casting, strategic release, and the ability to connect with the audience's emotions. While Bollywood's landscape is evolving, these films remain iconic examples of how to create a lasting impact on Indian cinema.