The early phase of Bendre’s filmography was characterized by major commercial projects where she often served as the romantic interest to the era’s biggest superstars. In films like Diljale (1996) and Major Saab (1998), she established herself as a reliable commercial lead. However, it was her collaboration with director Sarfarosh (1999) that remains a standout moment in her Hindi career. As Seema, she provided a soft, melodic contrast to the gritty, high-stakes world of cross-border terrorism. The chemistry between her and Aamir Khan, immortalized in the song "Jo Haal Dil Ka," remains one of the most celebrated depictions of romance in 90s cinema, showcasing her ability to command the screen with understated elegance.

True to 90s Bollywood, the "intimacy" is conveyed through evocative choreography, close-ups, and the actors' expressions rather than graphic content.

The song serves as the emotional and romantic peak for the couple before the tragedy of Ravi's imprisonment strikes.

A freelance photographer named Ravi ( Suniel Shetty ) and his girlfriend Mohini ( Sonali Bendre ) are targeted by a corrupt and lustful police inspector, D’Costa ( Naseeruddin Shah ).

When we talk about the most iconic leading ladies of the 1990s, Sonali Bendre