If you haven’t already been introduced into the culture of Bollywood movies, then it’s about time you do. Before you dive into the world of Bollywood, here are 10 things to know that will prepare you for your first Bollywood movie experience.

1. The time frame of a Bollywood movie isn’t like your average American film. The average Bollywood movie is around 3 hours long. Now, before you say, “Peace out, girl scout,” hear me out! Grab a big blanket and get cozy because you'll be there for awhile.
2. Don’t let the language barrier scare you off! There is almost always an option to watch the movie with English subtitles. While reading the subtitles and watching the movie may be hard to balance at the same time, you'll find yourself caring less about reading between the lines and paying more attention to the extravagant dance numbers and unwinding plot of the movie
3. Get ready for all the songs. Don't pay attention to the fact that one second they are dancing in a flower field and the next they’re in a snowstorm―that’s just how they roll. The songs are the best part of the whole Bollywood experience, so have fun jamming to them (even if you can’t understand what they’re singing). Let yourself be intrigued by different vocal varieties and instruments! It’s fun to step outside of your comfort zone once in awhile.
4. Grab a box of tissues because you will probably cry. There is something about the plot of these movies that will pull you in and make you feel invested in their lives. Let yourself feel all the emotions.
5. The drama. Expect lots of scenes with unwarranted sounds of thunder when there's no rain and intense staredowns with dramatic music playing in the background. I know, it’s unrealistic, you just have to go with it. The drama of a Bollywood movie will draw you in so much that you feel that their problems are your problems.
6. Something else you should know is that the actors in movies aren’t actually singing the songs. They’re lip synching. This is completely normal for Bollywood movies. So, before you comment on how it’s impossible for them to sing and move around at the same time, keep this fact in mind.
7. Shah Rukh Khan (pronounced “Sha-Roo-Kahn”) NEEDS to be the lead character of the first Bollywood movie you watch. Kajol needs to be the second lead. Shah Rukh Khan is basically the equivalent of Brad Pitt or Ryan Gosling. Kajol is the equivalent of Jennifer Lawrence. If these two are acting in a movie together, you know you’re starting your Bollywood experience right.
8. Watch a Bollywood movie with a group of friends. Choreograph a dance together. It’s way more fun that way.
9. Get ALL the snacks. Get a pizza. 3 hours is a long time. Fulfill the Bollywood experience by eating your favorite things! (trust me, the right snacks make everything better).
10. And finally, get ready to fall in love. This might be the corniest sentence you have read all day, but I’m dead serious. Get ready to fall in love with the beautiful scenery in these movies, the bursts of color in the clothing, and the storyline of every movie.

Bollywood movies hold a very special place in my heart, and I hope they capture your hearts too!