Dostana

Dostana

Year: 1980

Runtime: 153 mins

Language: Hindi

Director: Raj Khosla

Drama

Two close friends set out to serve the law—one joining the police force, the other studying to become a lawyer. Their shared commitment to justice is tested when both develop deep feelings for the same woman, sparking jealousy, conflict, and a strain that threatens to tear their long‑standing friendship apart.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Dostana (1980)

Trace every key event in Dostana (1980) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Two friends bound by a secret

Vijay Verma, a principled police officer, and Ravi Kapoor, a successful lawyer, are close friends who avoid discussing their respective professions to preserve their bond. Unbeknownst to them, they work on opposite sides of the law—Vijay arrests criminals while Ravi defends them in court for Daaga's operations. Their trust is tested as their careers pull them toward different paths.

Opening City
2

Love blooms for Sheetal

Both men fall for Sheetal, a woman who captures their attention. Vijay openly confesses his love and is returned with affection, while Ravi's unspoken feelings simmer beneath the surface. The competing desire tests their friendship even before the truth about their professions emerges.

Early phase City
3

A sacrifice letter

When Ravi confesses his love to Vijay, the latter decides to sacrifice his relationship with Sheetal for his friend's happiness. He writes Sheetal a letter ending their relationship, hoping to spare her pain. The letter, however, reaches Ravi without his knowledge, and he sets it aside.

After confession Vijay's home
4

Daaga exploits the rift

Daaga learns of Vijay and Sheetal's relationship and reveals it to Ravi, deepening his sense of betrayal. Seizing the opportunity, Ravi aligns with Daaga to sabotage Vijay. The duo's fragile alliance begins to tilt the balance of loyalty and friendship.

Soon after letter City
5

Tony's tragedy

Vijay's informant Tony shares his tragic past: after refusing to aid Daaga's smuggling operation, Daaga's men attacked his family, leaving them dead and his son Johnny disabled. The tale explains why Tony is willing to go to extremes, and it complicates the detectives' pursuit. The backstory reveals the cost of choosing loyalties.

Early conflict City
6

Vijay is framed

Daaga uses the growing rift to frame Vijay for the custodial death of a suspect. The accusation casts a shadow over Vijay's career and motivates Ravi to step in on his friend's behalf. The case becomes a battleground for trust and power.

Midpoint City courthouse
7

Ravi defends Vijay under a price

Ravi agrees to defend Vijay in court, but he makes a grim demand: Sheetal must spend a night with him in return. The condition underscores the moral rot surrounding the case and tests both men’s integrity. Despite the bargain, the courtroom showdown looms.

Before trial Courtroom
8

A letter read

During the night with Sheetal, Ravi finds and reads Vijay’s letter, grasping the depth of his friend's sacrifice. The revelation shatters Ravi's anger and sparks a renewed commitment to their friendship. Guilt and empathy replace prior scheming as the two men prepare to confront Daaga together.

Night Sheetal's residence
9

Daaga captures the duo; Sylvia intervenes

Daaga seizes Vijay and Ravi, intending to eliminate them. Sylvia, Daaga's moll and secretly Tony's sister-in-law and a police informant, arrives to rescue the pair. The escape scene turns violent, and Tony is fatally shot in the crossfire.

Climax Daaga's hideout
10

Tony dies and Johnny's future

In the ensuing conflict, Tony is fatally shot, but he entrusts Johnny's care to Vijay. Vijay vows to look after the boy, giving a personal stake to the confrontation with Daaga. The tragedy deepens the men’s resolve to bring down Daaga.

Climax Daaga's hideout
11

Final pursuit and Balwant's demise

Daaga attempts to escape with Balwant Singh via a plane, but Ravi and Vijay pursue them across the tarmac. Balwant is killed by Daaga during the chase, escalating the stakes. The pursuit ends with Daaga still in pursuit of power.

Final showdown Plane/airport
12

Daaga is gunned down

In the final confrontation, Vijay shoots Daaga after Daaga attempts to shoot him. The villain falls, and the immediate threat is neutralized. The fall of Daaga marks the turning point toward peace between the two friends.

Final showdown Airstrip
13

Friendship restored

With Daaga defeated and the personal costs acknowledged, Ravi and Vijay repair their friendship and move forward. Their loyalties are realigned, and the bonds of trust between them endure beyond the turmoil. The film ends on a note of reconciliation and renewed partnership.

Resolution City

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 14:59

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Dostana Summary

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Dostana Summary

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Dostana

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