Mumbai, Aug. 1 -- Friendship in Indian cinema has often been celebrated through iconic duos and lifelong companions. But some of the industry's most heartwarming friendships haven't been between two people, they've been between humans and animals. On the occasion of Friendship Day, here's a look at five films where animals weren't just companions, but the emotional heart of the story, teaching audiences lessons in loyalty, love and unconditional friendship.

1. Haathi Mere Saathi (1971): The Ultimate Human-Elephant Friendship

No Friendship Day list is complete without Haathi Mere Saathi. Starring Rajesh Khanna, the classic revolves around Raju, whose inseparable bond with his four elephants forms the soul of the film. More than pets, the...