Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the strength, love, and resilience of moms all over. Whether you’re spending the day with your mom or honoring the maternal figures in your life, there’s no superior way to express your gratitude than by revisiting heartwarming stories that beautifully capture the essence of motherhood.
In honor of Mother’s Day, we bring you a curated list of five films, shows, and audio series that delve deeply into the theme of motherhood, each offering a unique and captivating portrayal of what it means to be a mother.
**Mimi (Netflix)**
Kicking off the list is the emotional rollercoaster that is “Mimi,” directed by Laxman Utekar and starring the talented Kriti Sanon. The story centers around a young woman named Mimi, who harbors dreams of lighting up the Bollywood screen. She stumbles upon an unconventional yet lucrative opportunity—becoming a surrogate mother for an American couple. This venture, however, takes a harrowing turn when the couple learns that the baby has Down syndrome and advises Mimi to terminate the pregnancy. They subsequently abandon her and return to America.
Despite the overwhelming odds, Mimi decides to go against the couple’s wishes and raises the child herself. This heartwarming film explores the lengths to which a mother will go for her child, and emphasizes that parenthood transcends biological connections. Mimi’s journey is a testament to her sacrifice and the unconditional love she bestows upon her child, even at the expense of her own dreams.
**Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To (Pocket FM)**
Transitioning from a visual medium to an audio experience, our next pick is the fictional drama “Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To” on Pocket FM. This narrative offers a compelling storyline about Anika, a single mother who returns to her hometown of Manali, with her daughter, on a mission to find her twin kids. The drama captures Anika’s relentless struggles and the emotional roller-coaster she endures.
The show addresses complex themes such as determination, loss, and maternal devotion. Anika’s journey is fraught with challenges and her resilience is put to the test, making for an engaging and heartfelt listening experience.
**Mentalhood (ZEE5)**
“Mentalhood” is a series that perfectly encapsulates the modern-day challenges faced by mothers. Streaming on ZEE5, this show introduces us to six exceptional mothers who are juggling the multifaceted demands of child-rearing. Each character, with their distinct personality and parenting style, reflects the contemporary pressures of motherhood, amplified by societal expectations and the competitive nature of modern parenting.
The series, starring powerhouse performers like Karishma Kapoor, highlights the humor, relatability, and emotional depth inherent in the journey of motherhood. From playdates to school meetings, the mothers navigate through it all, reinforcing the idea that while being a mother is an arduous job, it’s also one filled with humor and heartfelt moments.
**Mom (Netflix)**
Another compelling entry on our list is “Mom,” a gripping film available on Netflix. This poignant drama stars the late legendary actress Sridevi, whose powerful portrayal of a mother-turned-vigilante won accolades. The plot centers around a distressing issue that plagues many societies—a brutal sexual assault on her daughter. Devastated and enraged by the justice system’s failure to protect her child, Sridevi’s character takes the law into her own hands to seek retribution.
The film, co-starring prominent actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Akshaye Khanna, Sajal Aly, and Adnan Siddiqui, underscores the boundless lengths a mother will go to protect and seek justice for her child. It serves as a potent reminder of a mother’s unwavering love and the intrinsic need to fight for what is right.
**When The Camellia Blooms (Netflix)**
Rounding out our list is the Korean drama “When The Camellia Blooms,” a series that captivated audiences with its authentic storytelling and emotional depth. Available on Netflix, the show stars Gong Hyo-jin, Kang Ha-neul, and Kim Ji-seok. It follows the life of Oh Dong-baek, a single mother navigating her way through a new community with her young son, Pil-gu.
The drama masterfully interweaves elements of romance and thriller, all while showcasing the resilience of Oh Dong-baek as she strives to create a better life for her son. Praised for its realistic portrayal of single motherhood, the series resonates deeply with viewers and highlights the inner strength and enduring love that characterize a mother’s bond with her child.
In celebrating Mother’s Day, these stories serve as powerful tributes to the indomitable spirit of mothers everywhere. They remind us that motherhood, in all its forms and challenges, is a journey filled with love, sacrifice, and immeasurable strength. Whether you’re tuning in alone or with family, these selections are sure to provide both inspiration and heartfelt moments, perfectly capturing the beautiful essence of motherhood.