The term “Bollywood” is often used to describe Indian cinema as a whole, despite its origins referring specifically to the Hindi film industry in Mumbai. For the purpose of this list, we’re embracing this broader definition to showcase the diversity of Indian film industries, including Telugu, Bengali, and more. Compiling a definitive top 20 list is a challenging task, but our collection features a wide range of favorites, including romantic comedies, sports dramas, classic tragedies, coming-of-age stories, and art-house films. Our expert contributors, hailing from various backgrounds and industries, have helped curate this list, which celebrates the richness and variety of Indian cinema.
1.HUM APKE HAIN KAUN (1994) :
The 1980s was a dark period for Bollywood, plagued by rampant VHS piracy and a creative downturn that left audiences disenchanted with the cheesy, action-packed films of the time. But then, like a phoenix from the ashes, came Sooraj Barjatya’s magnum opus – a sweeping romantic drama that single-handedly revived the industry’s fortunes. This unapologetically extravagant film is a sensory overload, featuring 14 memorable songs, two grand weddings, and even a cremation, all set against the backdrop of a quintessential north Indian family’s vibrant Hindu traditions. With its shameless opulence and meticulous attention to detail, this cinematic spectacle captivated viewers, shattering box office records and catapulting Bollywood onto the global stage, ushering in a new era of international recognition and acclaim.
2. YEH JAWAANI HAI DEEWANI (2013) :
The romantic comedy embodies the quintessential Bollywood formula, complete with vibrant colors, lively songs, and a grand Indian wedding. However, beneath its glamorous surface lies a relatable story of urban Indian youth navigating love, careers, and life’s complexities. The film follows Bunny and Naina, along with their friends, as they transition from university to their late twenties. The on-screen chemistry between leads Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, who were former real-life lovers, adds depth to the narrative, making Ayan Mukherjee’s comedy-drama a resounding success. This blend of realism and Bollywood flair captivated audiences and critics alike.
3. VEER ZARA (2004) :
Legendary Bollywood director Yash Chopra crafts a majestic musical romance that transcends borders and cultures. The film tells the poignant tale of Veer, a Hindu Indian, and Zaara, a Muslim Pakistani, who must confront the formidable obstacles of cultural differences, emotional turmoil, and physical distance to be together. Chopra’s signature style, marked by grandeur and visual splendor, is balanced by thoughtful commentary on pressing issues like Indo-Pak unity, women’s empowerment, and judicial ineptness. The iconic soundtrack, featuring the haunting vocals of Lata Mangeshkar and the compositions of Madan Mohan, adds depth to the narrative. A pivotal moment unfolds in a Pakistani courtroom, where the star-crossed lovers reunite after decades apart, leaving an indelible mark on the audience.
4. UMRAO JAAN ( 1981) :
The iconic film Umrao Jaan, based on Mirza Hadi Ruswa’s 1899 novel, tells the poignant story of a Lucknow courtesan, Umrao Jaan, portrayed by Rekha, who dares to dream of escape and love. The meticulously crafted period setting transported audiences to a bygone era, earning widespread acclaim and cementing Rekha’s status as a cinematic legend. A standout moment is the mesmerizing song “Dil cheez kya hai,” where Rekha, resplendent in a now-famous red attire, performs an unforgettable dance choreographed by the revered Gopi Krishna, set to the haunting music of Khayyam, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
5. SWADESH ( 2004)
In this poignant and thought-provoking drama, director Ashutosh Gowariker shifts his focus from India’s colonial past to the present day, offering a nuanced and critical exploration of modern India. Shah Rukh Khan breaks free from his typical romantic hero mold, playing Mohan, a NASA scientist who embarks on a transformative journey from America to his Indian roots. As Mohan immerses himself in a rural village plagued by petty conflicts and lacking basic amenities, he comes to understand the wisdom of a local saying: “It is the destiny of ice to melt in its own water.” A pivotal moment unfolds when Mohan harnesses the power of the local stream to bring electricity to the village, culminating in a heartwarming scene where an elderly woman witnesses the miracle of light in her home for the first time, simply uttering: “Electricity.”
6. GULLY BOY ( 2019) :
Gully Boy is a 2019 Bollywood musical drama film directed by Zoya Akhtar, inspired by the life of Indian street rapper Naezy. The film follows Murad Ahmed (Ranveer Singh), a young rapper from Mumbai’s slums, as he rises to fame, exploring themes of identity, class struggle, and music’s power to transcend boundaries. With a talented ensemble cast, including Alia Bhatt and Siddhant Chaturvedi, the movie received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of Mumbai’s street rap scene, strong performances, and impactful storytelling, becoming a commercial success and winning numerous awards, including 13 Filmfare Awards.
7. ARDH SATYA (1983):
Govind Nihalani’s gritty socio-realist masterpiece, Ardh Satya, shines a light on the dark underbelly of Mumbai’s police force, exposing the brutal nexus between corrupt politicians and compromised cops. Anant, a principled but flawed policeman played by Om Puri, is thwarted at every turn in his quest for justice, leading to a tragic confrontation with the politician he despises. Despite lacking big stars or hit songs, the film’s unflinching realism and Puri’s haunting performance made it a surprise hit, offering a scathing commentary on India’s corrupt system that remains eerily relevant today. A pivotal scene showcases Anant’s intense face-off with the politician, a moment that encapsulates the film’s powerful exploration of moral ambiguity and systemic rot.
8. LAGE RAHO MUNNA BHAI (2006):
Lage Raho Munna Bhai is a heartwarming and humorous Bollywood film that tells the story of Munna Bhai, a charismatic goon with a heart of gold, played by Sanjay Dutt. In this sequel to the original Munna Bhai, our hero falls in love with a radio jockey, Jhanvi, and pretends to be a professor to impress her. However, his life takes a turn when he starts to genuinely embody the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, leading to a series of hilarious and poignant events. With its unique blend of comedy, romance, and social commentary, Lage Raho Munna Bhai became a massive hit, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards, including four National Film Awards. The film’s message of non-violence, compassion, and self-improvement continues to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved classic in Indian cinema.
9. SALAAM BOMBAY( 1998) :
Salaam Bombay is a powerful and poignant film directed by Mira Nair, released in 1988. The movie tells the story of Krishna, a young boy who runs away from his village to Mumbai, only to find himself entangled in the harsh realities of street life. With a cast of non-professional actors, the film offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of the struggles faced by street children, prostitutes, and drug addicts living in the city’s underbelly. Through Krishna’s journey, the film sheds light on the resilience and vulnerability of those living on the margins, ultimately becoming a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for survival and hope. Salaam Bombay! received widespread critical acclaim, earning several awards, including the Camera d’Or at Cannes and an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
10. HERA PHERI (2000):
Hera Pheri is a hilarious Bollywood comedy film released in 2000, directed by Priyadarshan. The movie follows the misadventures of two unemployed friends, Raju (Akshay Kumar) and Shyam (Suniel Shetty), who get entangled in a series of absurd situations while trying to make a living. Their lives take a turn when they cross paths with a wealthy businessman, Baburao (Paresh Rawal), and his daughter, Rinku. The film’s clever dialogue, slapstick humor, and outstanding performances from the lead actors make it a laugh-out-loud entertainer. Hera Pheri became a massive hit, cementing the trio’s on-screen chemistry and leading to a sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, in 2006. The film’s success can be attributed to its relatable characters, witty one-liners, and the perfect blend of humor and heart, making it a beloved comedy classic in Indian cinema.
11. BHAAG MILKHA BHAG(2013):
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a biographical sports drama film directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, released in 2013. The movie tells the inspiring true story of Milkha Singh, India’s legendary athlete and Olympian, played by Farhan Akhtar. The film follows Milkha’s journey from his childhood trauma during the Partition of India to his rise as a world-class sprinter, earning the nickname “The Flying Sikh.” With a strong supporting cast, including Sonam Kapoor and Divya Dutta, the movie explores themes of perseverance, determination, and the power of sports to transcend boundaries. The film’s outstanding performances, coupled with its gripping narrative and memorable dialogues, made it a critical and commercial success, earning several awards and nominations, including 11 Filmfare Awards. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for triumph over adversity, making it an iconic film in Indian cinema.
12. DHOBI GHAT (2011) :
Dhobi Ghat is a poignant and contemplative Bollywood film directed by Kiran Rao, released in 2011. The movie weaves together the lives of four individuals from different walks of life in Mumbai, exploring themes of loneliness, longing, and human connection. The story revolves around Arun (Aamir Khan), a reclusive artist; Munna (Prateik Babbar), a young washerman; Yasmin (Kriti Malhotra), a beautiful housewife; and Shai (Monica Dogra), a free-spirited American. Through their intersecting narratives, the film captures the city’s vibrant tapestry and the quiet struggles of its inhabitants. With its lyrical pace, stunning visuals, and evocative soundtrack, Dhobi Ghat is a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of urban isolation and the search for meaning. The film received critical acclaim for its innovative storytelling, strong performances, and sensitive direction, making it a standout in contemporary Indian cinema.
13. LAAPATAA LADIES (2023) :
When two young brides accidentally disembark from the same train, a series of hilarious misadventures ensue, filled with mistaken identities, comedic mishaps, and heartwarming moments. As they navigate their way through the chaos, laughter and joy abound, making for a delightful and entertaining journey.
14. STREE 2: SARKATE KA AATANK (2024)
The sequel to the hit film Stree, Stree 2, picks up where the original left off, with the town of Chanderi facing a new and even more terrifying threat. A mysterious entity, this time without a head, is wreaking havoc on the town, targeting women and dragging them away into the darkness. As the people of Chanderi cower in fear, Vicky and his friends, who had previously saved the town from the vengeful spirit of Stree, must once again join forces to unravel the mystery behind the headless entity’s sinister motives. With their bravery and wit put to the test, they embark on a perilous quest to rescue their loved ones and restore peace to their beleaguered town. Along the way, they uncover dark secrets and confront their deepest fears, leading to a showdown that will determine the fate of Chanderi.
15. KILL (2024):
Kill is a gripping action-thriller film that follows the story of a young woman who seeks revenge against the criminal mastermind responsible for her family’s tragic demise. As she navigates a complex web of danger and deception, she must confront her own dark past and harness her inner strength to take down the ruthless villain. With heart-pumping action sequences, unexpected twists, and a powerful female lead, Kill promises to be an electrifying cinematic experience that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
16. MAIDAAN( 2024):
Maidaan is an upcoming 2024 Indian sports drama film directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma, starring Ajay Devgn as Syed Abdul Rahim, the legendary Indian football coach who led the national team to victory in the 1951 and 1952 Asian Games. The film tells the inspiring story of Rahim’s journey, exploring his passion for football, his dedication to his players, and his unwavering commitment to the sport. Set against the backdrop of post-independence India, Maidaan promises to be a thrilling and emotional ride, showcasing the triumphs and struggles of Indian football’s golden era, and the man who helped shape its history. With its powerful storyline, strong performances, and authentic football action, Maidaan is set to be a cinematic experience that will leave audiences cheering.
17. FIGHTER (2023):
Fighter is an Indian action-thriller film starring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in lead roles. Directed by Siddharth Anand, the movie follows the story of an air force pilot who finds himself at the center of a dangerous mission. With his exceptional flying skills and bravery, he must take on a powerful adversary and overcome incredible odds to save the day. The film promises to be an adrenaline-fueled ride, featuring high-octane action sequences, stunning aerial stunts, and a gripping narrative that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. As Hrithik Roshan returns to the action genre, fans can expect an electrifying performance from the actor, paired with Deepika Padukone’s impressive acting chops, making Fighter a highly anticipated cinematic experience.
18. KALKI 2898 AD( 2024) :
Kalki is a 2024 Indian Telugu-language action thriller film written and directed by Prasanth Varma. The movie stars Tovino Thomas, Samyuktha Menon, and Siddique in key roles. Set in a dystopian future, Kalki follows the story of a mysterious figure who emerges to challenge the corrupt and powerful forces that have taken over society. With its unique blend of action, suspense, and social commentary, the film promises to be a thought-provoking and visually stunning experience. Director Prasanth Varma’s signature style, combined with Tovino Thomas’s impressive acting skills, makes Kalki one of the most anticipated releases of 2024.
19. SRIKANTH (2024):
Raj Kumar Rao is set to star in a highly anticipated Bollywood movie titled Srikanth, releasing in 2024. The film, directed by a talented filmmaker, marks a significant milestone in Rao’s career as he takes on the titular role of Srikanth. Details about the plot are still under wraps, but sources suggest that the movie will be a gripping drama or thriller, showcasing Rao’s impressive acting range. With his proven track record of delivering nuanced performances, Raj Kumar Rao is expected to bring depth and intensity to the character of Srikanth. The movie is eagerly awaited by fans and critics alike, hoping to see Rao deliver another standout performance in this exciting new project.
20. MR. & MRS. MAHI (2024):
Mr. & Mrs. Mahi is an upcoming Bollywood film starring Raj Kumar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor, set to release in 2024. Directed by Sharan Sharma, the movie follows the story of a young couple, Mahendra and Mahi, played by Rao and Kapoor respectively. The film explores their journey as they navigate love, relationships, and personal ambitions. With Raj Kumar Rao’s exceptional acting skills and Janhvi Kapoor’s charm, the movie promises to be a heartwarming and engaging watch. The title suggests a light-hearted and humorous tone, making Mr. & Mrs. Mahi a highly anticipated romantic comedy-drama of 2024.
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