Harsh Vardhan
In the vibrant world of Bollywood cinema, where every frame tells a captivating tale, Netflix serves as a treasure trove for enthusiasts seeking the best of Indian cinema. Here is a curated guide through the streaming giant’s vast collection, showcasing the epitome of Indian filmmaking. From timeless classics that define the essence of Bollywood to contemporary gems that push the boundaries of storytelling, this compilation celebrates the richness and diversity of Indian cinema. Join us on a cinematic journey, exploring the magic of soul-stirring narratives, unforgettable performances, and visually stunning spectacles that have captured hearts worldwide. Get ready to dive into a world where every click opens the door to cinematic brilliance.
45. Do Patti (2024)
Directed by Shashanka Chaturvedi, ‘Do Patti’ is a thriller at the center of which are twin sisters, the sober Soumya and wild Shailee (Kriti Sanon), and a guy named Dhruv (Shaheer Sheikh). The two sisters are poles apart, and Shailee has been jealous of Soumya since they were kids. Dhruv is all set to marry Soumya, but his mistreatment and abuse of her make her caretaker, Maaji (Tanvi Azmi), inform Vidya Jyoti (Kajol), a cop, about the torture. Add attempted murder to the scenario, and we get a masala-filled Bollywood drama underscored by trauma and patriarchy. You can watch ‘Do Patti’ here.
44. Khoobsurat (2014)
‘Khoobsurat’ is a delightful Bollywood rom-com directed by Shashanka Ghosh, featuring an ensemble cast including Sonam Kapoor, Fawad Khan, Ratna Pathak Shah, and Kirron Kher. The film revolves around the quirky and vibrant physiotherapist Milli (Sonam Kapoor), who is hired to tend to the health needs of the royal family of Sambhalgarh. Her unorthodox approach disrupts the rigid decorum of the palace, much to the chagrin of the stern queen (Ratna Pathak Shah) and the dashing prince (Fawad Khan). The clash of personalities and cultures sets the stage for a lighthearted and heartwarming tale of love, laughter, and finding beauty in life’s imperfections. You can stream the film here.
43. Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)
‘Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl’ is a biographical drama that brings to life the inspiring journey of Gunjan Saxena, the first Indian female airforce pilot to serve in combat. With the titular character played by Janhvi Kapoor, the film chronicles her determination to break gender barriers and serve her nation during the Kargil War. It delves into the challenges and stereotypes she faced, portraying her unwavering commitment to her dreams. The movie is a poignant tribute to her resilience, depicting the courage and tenacity required to shatter societal norms. You can watch ‘Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl’ here.
42. Love Aaj Kal (2020)
‘Love Aaj Kal,’ directed by Imtiaz Ali, is a contemporary romantic drama that interweaves two love stories, one set in the late 1990s featuring Raghu (Kartik Aaryan) and Leena (Arushi Sharma) and the other in the present day with Veer (Kartik Aaryan) and Zoe (Sara Ali Khan). The film explores the complexities of modern relationships, career ambitions, and personal aspirations, illustrating how love has evolved over the years. With compelling performances by Kartik Aaryan, Sara Ali Khan, and Arushi Sharma, Imtiaz Ali’s direction delves deep into the intricacies of human emotions, offering a poignant and relatable portrayal of love in today’s fast-paced world. You can stream the film here.
41. Fitoor (2016)
‘Fitoor,’ directed by Abhishek Kapoor, is a romantic drama film that reimagines Charles Dickens’s classic novel, ‘Great Expectations,’ in a contemporary Indian setting. Set against the picturesque Kashmir Valley backdrop, the film follows the tumultuous love story between Noor, played by Aditya Roy Kapur, and Firdaus, portrayed by Katrina Kaif, with Tabu in a pivotal role. The plot explores themes of unrequited love, ambition, and social divide, and the stunning cinematography captures the region’s beauty. You can watch the movie here.
40. Ginny Weds Sunny (2020)
Directed by Puneet Khanna, ‘Ginny Weds Sunny’ is a heartwarming romantic comedy that revolves around the charming Ginny (Yami Gautam) and the persistent Sunny (Vikrant Massey). Ginny, hesitant about an arranged marriage, seeks Sunny’s help in an unconventional mission to win her heart. The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, with solid performances by Ayesha Raza, Suhail Nayyar, and Isha Talwar. As the story unfolds, ‘Ginny Weds Sunny’ navigates themes of love, tradition, and self-discovery, painting a delightful portrait of modern romance and the complexities of Indian matchmaking. You can stream the film here.
39. Thar (2022)
‘Thar‘ is a Hindi-language Western action thriller penned and helmed by Raj Singh Chaudhary. Set against the backdrop of the 1980s, the film revolves around a city dweller who relocates to a remote wilderness village for exploratory purposes, concealing the depths of his character. The movie features Anil Kapoor, Harshvardhan Kapoor (Anil Kapoor’s son), and Fatima Sana Shaikh in leading roles. You can watch it here.
38. Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024)
A large-scale action movie starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ is directed by Ali Abbas Zafar. The film follows two court-martialed Indian army soldiers, Freedy (Kumar), aka Bade, and Rocky (Shroff), aka Chote, who reunite to stop a masked villain (Prithviraj Sukumaran) from misusing an advanced defense system that the Indian army has developed and wreaking havoc on India. In a race against time, Freddy and Rocky have to fight their clones and heavily armed henchmen, adding to the action quotient of the movie, which is one of the most expensive Indian movies ever made. ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’ co-stars Manushi Chhillar, Alaya F, Sonakshi Sinha, and Ronit Roy. You can watch the movie here.
37. Crew (2024)
This heist comedy follows three financially struggling flight attendants, played by leading Bollywood actresses Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Kriti Sanon. After stumbling upon gold bars being smuggled from India to a foreign country, they decide to join the smuggling operation, carried out by the airline, rather than report it to the authorities. This is to improve their lives and enjoy a lavish lifestyle. But all this only until word gets out, and when it does, our trio has to figure out a way to steer clear of trouble and prison too. Directed by Rajesh A Krishnan, ‘Crew’ co-stars Diljit Dosanjh, Kapil Sharma, Rajesh Sharma, and Saswata Chatterjee. You can watch it here.
36. Mr. & Mrs. Mahi (2024)
Directed by Sharan Sharma and starring Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, ‘Mr. & Mrs. Mahi’ is a romantic sports drama. It follows the titular couple, Mahendra (Rao) and Mahima (Kapoor), who share their nickname ‘Mahi’ with each other and with Mahendra Singh Dhoni, former captain of the Indian men’s cricket team. Having failed to give shape to his own dream to be a cricketer, Mahendra spots Mahima’s talent for the sport and encourages her to pursue it as her career. The film does a good job of bringing together sports and romance in a quintessential Bollywood manner. The onscreen chemistry between Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao is also palpable. You can watch ‘Mr. & Mrs. Mahi’ here.
35. Lust Stories (2018)
‘Lust Stories‘ is a captivating anthology film in the Hindi cinema landscape, featuring four short films directed by four prominent filmmakers: Anurag Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Dibakar Banerjee, and Karan Johar. Each story delves into the complexities of human relationships, shedding light on the unspoken desires and societal taboos surrounding love and sexuality. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Radhika Apte, Bhumi Pednekar, Kiara Advani, and Manisha Koirala, the film presents a bold and thought-provoking exploration of intimacy and emotional dynamics in contemporary India. ‘Lust Stories’ is a striking testament to the evolving narratives in Indian cinema and the directors’ unflinching commitment to storytelling that challenges conventions. You may watch ‘Lust Stories’ here.
34. Love Per Square Foot (2018)
‘Love Per Square Foot,’ directed by Anand Tiwari, is a heartwarming romantic comedy that explores the trials and tribulations of modern urban living in Mumbai. The film’s plot revolves around a young couple, Vicky Kaushal and Angira Dhar, who enter a fake marriage to secure a much-coveted apartment under a government housing scheme. As they navigate the complexities of their unconventional arrangement and personal aspirations, the story unveils the complexities of love and relationships in the bustling city. You can stream the movie here.
33. Doctor G (2022)
Directed by Anubhuti Kashyap, the uproariously clever medical comedy ‘Doctor G’ stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Rakul Preet Singh, and Shefali Shah. Khurrana portrays Uday Gupta, a medical student who, instead of specializing in orthopedics, embarks on an unexpected journey in the female-dominated world of Gynaecology. Brimming with entertaining hijinks, the film combines genuine moments with humor amidst the chaos of Dr. Gupta’s unique education. With a script that skillfully addresses pertinent medical scenarios for its female audience, ‘Doctor G’ strikes a perfect balance between reality, comedy, and a touch of romance. You may watch the film here.
32. Darlings (2022)
In the dark comedy film ‘Darlings,’ starring Alia Bhatt, we follow the twisted lives of two women in a Mumbai suburb. The story unfolds as they accidentally commit a crime of passion, leading them into a web of deception and chaos. As they try to cover up their tracks, their lives intertwine with a corrupt cop and a powerful politician. Amidst the humor, the film delves into the complexities of ambition, love, and betrayal, painting a satirical portrait of modern urban life. With Alia Bhatt’s stellar performance, ‘Darlings’ navigates the fine line between comedy and darkness, offering a unique cinematic experience. You can check out the film here.
31. Jab Harry Met Sejal (2017)
‘Jab Harry Met Sejal‘ is a romantic comedy film directed by Imtiaz Ali, featuring the charismatic pairing of Shah Rukh Khan as Harry and Anushka Sharma as Sejal. The film revolves around Sejal, a spirited young woman who, during a European vacation, loses her engagement ring and embarks on a journey with tour guide Harry to find it, leading to a deeper exploration of life, love, and self-discovery. Imtiaz Ali’s signature storytelling style weaves a tale of wanderlust and connection, with Khan and Sharma’s chemistry adding a delightful spark to the narrative. The movie presents a modern take on love and self-realization against the picturesque backdrop of Europe. Feel free to check out the movie here.
30. Jigra (2024)
How far can a sister go to protect his brother who is incarcerated in a different country under false accusations? This is what Vasan Bala’s action thriller ‘Jigra’ shows. Satya (Alia Bhatt) is a young woman whose younger brother Ankur (Vedang Raina) is arrested on foreign soil after being apparently found with drugs. The country has strict laws, and Ankur doesn’t have much time before being sent to death row. It is upto Satya to save him, her only true family in the entire world. Can she overcome the overwhelming odds and rescue her brother before it’s too late? Only if she has a plan and the “jigra” (Hindi for “courage”) to pull it off. Gripping and emotional, the film does a good job of showcasing a powerful sibling relationship set against a potential jailbreak situation. To find out how things work out, you can watch the film here.
29. Sector 36 (2024)
Directed by Aditya Nimbalkar, ‘Sector 36’ is a crime thriller that judges the difference between right and wrong up front. It pins a morally conflicted police officer, Ram Charan Pandey (Deepak Dobriyal), against a ruthless serial killer (Vikrant Massey). When a crime comes to light, and Pandey finally decides to take action, he realizes that he may have stepped in so far that he has reached a point from where there is no return. A subsequent shocking confrontation leads to a horrifying revelation and puts his life at risk. He may bring the criminal to justice, but there’s more to the case than meets the eye. ‘Sector 36’ provides a good narrative strengthened further by the performances of Dobriyal and Massey. You can watch the film here.
28. Pad Man (2018)
‘Pad Man,’ directed by R. Balki, is a thought-provoking and inspirational biographical drama. The film centers on Arunachalam Muruganantham, portrayed by Akshay Kumar, a visionary entrepreneur who revolutionizes menstrual hygiene for women in rural India by creating low-cost sanitary napkins. Facing societal taboos and skepticism, Muruganantham’s remarkable journey towards a more accessible and dignified menstrual health solution challenges traditional norms and prejudices. The cast also includes Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor, who deliver impactful performances. ‘Pad Man’ deftly combines social relevance with humor and empathy, shedding light on a critical issue while celebrating the spirit of innovation and change. You can stream the film here.
27. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
‘Raat Akeli Hai,’ directed by Honey Trehan, is a gripping crime thriller that unfolds in a rural setting. When a wealthy family’s young bride is found dead on her wedding night, Inspector Jatil Yadav, played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, is called to investigate the mysterious murder. The suspects include the dysfunctional family members, each harboring their own secrets, making the case even more enigmatic. The ensemble cast features Radhika Apte, Shweta Tripathi, and Tigmanshu Dhulia, among others. As the investigation deepens, hidden truths surface, and the film masterfully blends suspense, drama, and dark secrets, creating a thrilling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. You may watch the film here.
26. Mom (2017)
‘Mom’ is a gripping Indian thriller directed by Ravi Udyawar, starring the legendary Sridevi as the lead. The story follows Devki, a high school teacher and stepmother. The world shatters when her stepdaughter, Arya, is brutally assaulted by a group of men, leading to a court case that fails to bring justice. Consumed by vengeance and frustration, Devki takes matters into her own hands, seeking retribution for Arya’s suffering. She becomes an avenging force, planning and executing a meticulous plan to bring the perpetrators to justice. The film dives into the profound themes of unwavering maternal love, unyielding resilience, and the extraordinary extent to which a mother will traverse to shield her child, delivering an emotionally charged cinematic journey. You can watch ‘Mom’ here.
25. Pagglait (2021)
‘Pagglait’ is a poignant Indian drama directed by Umesh Bist, starring Sanya Malhotra as the central character, Sandhya. After the sudden death of her husband just a few months into their arranged marriage, Sandhya finds herself in a whirlwind of mourning, but not in the way society expects. Instead of adhering to traditional customs, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The film beautifully explores grief, societal expectations, and the strength required to chart one’s own path. It’s a touching, thought-provoking story that offers a fresh perspective on bereavement, individuality, and resilience, showcasing Sanya Malhotra’s exceptional acting. You can check out the film here.
24. Mission Majnu (2023)
Set during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War, ‘Mission Majnu‘ emerges as a gripping spy thriller, skillfully combining high-octane action sequences with a tightly woven narrative. Directed by Shantanu Bagchi, the film delves into a captivating historical fiction, offering a riveting perspective on the heightened tensions of the nuclear arms race from India’s vantage point. Sidharth Malhotra takes the lead as the charismatic Amandeep Singh, masterfully juggling his daring spy persona with the complex emotions he harbors for his blind and pregnant cover wife, portrayed by Rashmika Mandanna. The movie promises to be a captivating exploration of patriotism, love, and intrigue. You may watch it here.
23. Dunki (2023)
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, ‘Dunki’ shows how a group of people dreaming of going to London fail the VISA test and end up taking the Dunki route, aka the “donkey flight,” an illegal immigration technique. In exchange for hefty amounts of money, travelers undergo unlawful border crossings on foot, in cars, and even in shipping containers. The immensely tiring and potentially fatal journey takes months. This journey is what Hardy, Manu, and Buggu take to reach their friend Balli, who has apparently made it big in London. An emotional rollercoaster, ‘Dunki’ stars Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Vikram Kochhar, Anil Grover, Vicky Kaushal and Boman Irani. You can stream it here.
22. Animal (2023)
Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, this film follows Ranvijay Singh (Ranbir Kapoor), the son of wealthy businessman Balbir Singh (Anil Kapoor), from his estranged childhood to adulthood. His journey is underscored by a toxic love-hate relationship with his father, Balbir, and vengeance that results from an assassination attempt on Balbir. With a run time of approximately 200 minutes, ‘Animal,’ owing to Ranvijay’s nature, showcases a toxic man and the extent to which it goes. Filled with action and drama, ‘Animal’ is an entertaining ride, although it has garnered a lot of controversy over its treatment of women. Alongside Ranbir Kapoor and Anil Kapoor, the film also stars Rashmika Mandanna, Bobby Deol, Tripti Dimri, and Babloo Prithiveeraj. You can watch it here.
21. The White Tiger (2021)
Adapted from Aravind Adiga’s 2008 Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, ‘The White Tiger’ has been directed by Ramin Bahrani and stars Adarsh Gourav, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Rajkummar Rao. It follows Balram Halwai (Adarsh Gourav), a poor villager whose dream and struggle to make it big in life lands him the job of a chauffeur for a wealthy couple, Ashok (Rajkumar Rao) and Pinky (Priyanka Chopra-Jonas). But after an eye-opening incident one night, Ashok realizes that he is merely a pawn in a world run by the rich. This is when he decides to retaliate. ‘The White Tiger’ is a thrilling watch. You can do so here.
20. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham… (2001)
‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…’ is an iconic Bollywood film directed by Karan Johar, celebrated for its extravagant sets, memorable music, and an ensemble cast that includes Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor. This emotional rollercoaster weaves a tale of family dynamics and societal expectations, focusing on the Raichand family’s opulent lifestyle and its unraveling due to pride and misunderstandings. The film beautifully portrays themes of love, sacrifice, and the ultimate power of familial bonds. With its dramatic twists and turns, heartwarming moments, and lavish production values, ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…’ remains a quintessential Bollywood classic adored by audiences worldwide. You may watch the movie here.
19. Monica, O My Darling (2022)
In ‘Monica, O My Darling,’ a complex web of deception and murder unfolds as Jayant Arkhedkar, a high-ranking executive, embarks on an affair with Monica Machado, the company secretary. When Monica reveals she’s pregnant and tries to blackmail Jayant, he, along with two others, devises a plan to kill her. However, their scheme goes awry, and Monica mysteriously survives. As the bodies pile up and suspicion grows, a series of shocking revelations come to light, uncovering a sinister world of secrets and treachery. The film takes audiences on a thrilling journey through a dark and unpredictable landscape, leaving them guessing until the end. You may watch it here.
18. Jawan (2023)
Directed by Atlee Kumar, ‘Jawan’ became the highest-grossing Hindi movie of all time within two months of its release. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, and Vijay Sethupathi, the movie is set across two timelines. In one timeline, set in the present, we have Azad, an ordinary man who takes on a corrupt businessman/arms dealer, Kalee, whose monetary power allows him to be backed by the government. On the other timeline, set in the past, we have Captain Vikram Rathore, whose team is almost killed during an operation due to their faulty weaponry manufactured by none other than Kalee’s company. How these two timelines intertwine makes for a high-octane, action-packed movie in which Shah Rukh Khan, known to the world as the King of Romance, shines in an all-new rugged and raw avatar. ‘Jawan’ is a must-watch Bollywood movie that you can stream right here.
17. Main Hoon Na (2004)
Directed by Farah Khan, this romantic action-comedy stars Shah Rukh Khan, Sushmita Sen, Zayed Khan, Amrita Rao, and Suniel Shetty. We follow Major Ram Sharma, who arrives in Darjeeling to protect General Amarjeet Bakshi’s teenage daughter Sanjana. This is after Bakshi receives a threat from Raghavan, an Indian soldier turned terrorist, telling him not to greenlight an upcoming prisoner exchange program between India and Pakistan. While in Darjeeling, Ram also tries to reunite with his step-brother Lakshman and stepmother. However, Raghavan’s sinister motives pose a threat to all those whom Ram has vowed to protect. A must-watch quintessential Bollywood movie, ‘Main Hoon Na’ can be watched right here.
16. Maharaj (2024)
This gripping and successful historical biographical drama is based on the historic Maharaja Libel Case of 1862, whose trial was carried out in the Bombay High Court in the Bombay Presidency, British India. It shows how journalist Karsandas Mulji takes on a godman/spiritual guru, Jadunath Maharaj, aka JJ. Mulji, in an unwavering stand against the maharaja’s malpractices, as part of which he sexually exploited his female devotees, bringing him to a court of law to expose him. A social reformer who supported gender equality and widow remarriage and didn’t believe in caste and religious distinction, he faced much backlash from the Maharaja’s devotees. However, it didn’t waver his determination to fight for the truth and the respect of women. The film stars Junaid Khan (son of actor Aamir Khan) as Karsandas Mulji and Jaideep Ahlawat as Jadunath Maharaj. Also co-starring are Shalini Pandey and Sharvari Wagh. You can watch ‘Maharaj’ here.
15. Laapataa Ladies (2023)
Directed by Kiran Rao, this beautiful film is set in rural India in 2001 and follows two newly-wed women who get separated from their respective husbands at a railway station. Young Phool wakes up in a different station, alone and scared. She has no idea that her amiable husband, Deepak, had gotten off at another station the previous night with another woman named Jaya. This happens due to the same wedding attires of the women and the veils that hide their faces (a ritual for newly married Indian women).
While Deepak starts searching for Phool, she finds shelter at the station, thanks to Manju Mai, who runs a tea stall there. Meanwhile, Jaya has her own intentions to address so she doesn’t reveal herself to Deepak when he brings her home from the station. All these plots are connected in a heartwarming manner underscored by numerous social messages that make ‘Laapataa Ladies’ one of the best Bollywood movies available on the platform. It stars Nitanshi Goel, Sparsh Shrivastav, Pratibha Ranta, Ravi Kishan, Chhaya Kadam, and Satendra Soni. You can watch it here.
14. Bhakshak (2024)
Based on actual events, this horrifying drama follows a struggling journalist, Vaishali Singh (Bhumi Pednekar) from Munnawarpur, Bihar, who comes across a potential case of women exploitation at a shelter home. Upon digging, she comes across a harrowing sex racket run by the shelter’s owner, Bansi Sahu (Aditya Srivastava), who has powerful political connections. How Vaishali takes it upon herself to bust the racket and bring the criminals to justice is what we see in this powerful social drama. Directed by Pulkit, ‘Bhakshak’ can be streamed here.
13. Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022)
‘Gangubai Kathiawadi,’ directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, brings to life the story of Gangubai Kothewali from S. Hussain Zaidi’s ‘Mafia Queens of Mumbai.’ Portrayed brilliantly by Alia Bhatt, the film charts Gangubai’s inspiring journey from a simple girl in Kathiawad to a formidable force in the crime world. Bhansali’s direction, combined with Bhatt’s compelling performance, crafts a powerful cinematic experience, immersing viewers in a tale of resilience, strength, and spirit in the face of adversity. You may watch the film here.
12. Ludo (2020)
‘Ludo,’ an Indian dark comedy film directed by Anurag Basu, weaves an intricate tale of four lives intertwined by fate and circumstance. This engaging ensemble cast features Abhishek Bachchan, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Aditya Roy Kapur, and others. Set against the backdrop of the game of Ludo, the film explores themes of love, deceit, and destiny. With its quirky storytelling and unique narrative structure, ‘Ludo’ offers a delightful blend of humor, drama, and emotion. Feel free to check out the movie here.
11. Queen (2014)
‘Queen,’ an Indian coming-of-age film directed by Vikas Bahl, takes viewers on a transformative journey with Rani Mehra, portrayed brilliantly by Kangana Ranaut. The film follows Rani, a young woman who, after her wedding is called off, embarks on a solo honeymoon trip to Europe, discovering herself along the way. As she encounters diverse people and cultures, her self-assurance grows, and she learns the power of independence and resilience. Ranaut’s compelling performance earned her numerous accolades, making ‘Queen’ a testament to self-discovery, friendship, and empowerment. You may watch it here.
10. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
Directed by Ayan Mukerji, ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’ is a heartwarming coming-of-age romantic drama in Bollywood. The film revolves around Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor), a free-spirited young man, and his transformative journey through friendship, love, and self-discovery. Joined by his vivacious friends Naina (Deepika Padukone), Avi (Aditya Roy Kapur), and Aditi (Kalki Koechlin), the story beautifully captures the essence of youth, aspirations, and the inevitability of change. With stunning visuals, soul-stirring music, and exceptional performances, the film immerses viewers in a rollercoaster ride of emotions, making it a delightful watch that you can experience right here.
9. Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
An epic historical drama by acclaimed Indian director Ashutosh Gowariker, ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ is set against the backdrop of 16th-century India, which was under the rule of the Mughal Empire. The film explores the romance between Mughal Emperor Akbar and Jodhaa Bai, a Hindu Princess from Amber, Rajasthan. However, what makes the film appealing is how the romance is underscored by the politics and regulations of the Mughal court that not even Emperor Akbar could refrain from, as well as the religious conflict. Starring Hrithik Roshan as Akbar and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as Jodhaa Bai, ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ is one of the best historical movies to have come out of Bollywood. You can watch it here.
8. Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)
Directed by Zoya Akhtar, this film centers on an affluent Punjabi family, the Mehras, who are nonetheless dysfunctional, just like their in-laws and family friends. In the middle of this pretentious world, the Mehra siblings Kabir and Ayesha are stuck, struggling to wrap their heads around what their parents, Kamal and Neelam, want from them. Amidst family obligations, expectations, relationships, and the complexities that all these bring, ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’ paints a subtle yet detailed painting of high-class Indian society. ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’ stars Anil Kapoor, Shefali Shah, Ranveer Singh, Priyanka Chopra, Farhan Akhtar, Rahul Bose, and Anushka Sharma. You can watch it here.
7. Wake Up Sid (2009)
Directed by Ayan Mukerji, this famous coming-of-age drama stars Ranbir Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma, along with Shikha Talsania, Namit Das, Anupam Kher, and Supriya Pathak. The story follows Sid Mehra, whose only job is wasting his father’s money. This includes hanging out with his friends and partying. But when he meets the independent, disciplined, and here-for-work Aisha, who has come to Mumbai from Kolkata, a realization dawns on him. Does he really want to party all his life? Will Aisha’s rejection of his lifestyle be his wake-up call? ‘Wake Up Sid’ is a sweet film that everyone should watch, and you can do so right here.
6. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)
This film, directed by Zoya Akhtar, stars Farhan Akhtar, Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Katrina Kaif, and Kalki Koechlin. It tells the story of three friends who meet after a long time when one of them plans a bachelor trip to Spain. The emotional baggage that these three men have collected in all the time they haven’t seen each other is what we are exposed to during the trip. However, we also get to see the trust among them, as well as how their experiences during the journey bring closure to a lot of their open-ended stuff and usher in new beginnings. One of the best Bollywood movies available on the platform, you can watch ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ right here.
5. Tamasha (2015)
‘Tamasha’ is a cinematic masterpiece that showcases the complexities of identity, love, and self-discovery and can also be considered the magnum opus of Imtiaz Ali. Starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, the film narrates the story of Ved and Tara, two spirited souls who meet in Corsica and decide to live their moments without revealing their true identities. Fueled by passion and dreams, they part ways only to reunite years later. Once a creative dreamer, Ved is now a mundane corporate worker stifled by societal expectations. Tara embarks on a journey to reignite the spark in Ved and rediscover the man she fell in love with. ‘Tamasha’ is a poetic exploration of human emotions, the conflict between conformity and creativity, beautifully wrapped in mesmerizing visuals and soul-stirring music, leaving audiences introspective and profoundly moved. You can stream ‘Tamasha’ here.
4. Drishyam (2015)
‘Drishyam‘ stands as a brilliantly crafted Indian thriller, a remake of its Malayalam counterpart, that promises to captivate you from start to finish. The film unravels the gripping tale of a father’s desperate efforts to shield his family from a grave accusation—the murder of the son of the Inspector General of Goa Police. Despite relentless scrutiny and torture by the police, the family cleverly outwits their pursuers. With a series of intense twists and turns, the narrative keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, inducing a popcorn-chomping anticipation that lasts until the very last moment. ‘Drishyam’ is a cinematic gem that exemplifies the power of storytelling and suspense in Indian cinema. You can stream the film here.
3. Rang De Basanti (2006)
‘Rang De Basanti,’ a cult classic helmed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, is an iconic Indian film known for its powerful narrative and social commentary. The story follows a group of university students who, while working on a documentary about India’s freedom fighters, become inspired to take on modern societal issues. With a blend of historical flashbacks and contemporary drama, the film masterfully conveys the passion for change, patriotism, and the call for youth to be the catalyst for a better future. Boasting stellar performances by Aamir Khan, Siddharth, and Kunal Kapoor, along with a memorable soundtrack by A.R. Rahman, ‘Rang De Basanti’ has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. You can stream the film here.
2. Amar Singh Chamkila (2024)
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, this musical follows the life of popular 80s Punjabi singer Amar Singh Chamkila, who, in his 20s, became the highest-selling Punjabi artist of all time. His popularity earned him the title “Elvis of Punjab.” His songs, written and composed by him, were inspired by his childhood experiences in his village. Chamkila and his singing partner/second wife Amarjot were assassinated on March 8, 1988, in Punjab right before they were about to perform at an event. Chamkila was 28. Many believe that his assassination was the result of his brash, bold lyrics with sexual intonations that offended many people in the Punjabi community. The film traces Chamkila’s journey, from his humble beginnings to his rise to fame to his death. Famous Punjabi singer/actor Diljit Dosanjh plays Amar Singh Chamkila’s role, while Amarjot is played by Parineeti Chopra, cousin of actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas. The film’s music has been composed by Oscar-Grammy-BAFTA-winning Indian composer A. R. Rahman. You can watch ‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ here.
1. Swades (2004)
Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, ‘Swades’ is a cinematic gem that stands out for its compelling storytelling, brilliant performances, and powerful message. The film stars Shah Rukh Khan as Mohan Bhargava, a NASA scientist who returns to India to reconnect with his roots. As he embarks on a journey to electrify a remote village, he grapples with the complexities of rural life and discovers a profound sense of purpose. ‘Swades’ captivates with its authentic portrayal of India’s heartland, Khan’s heartfelt performance, and A.R. Rahman’s evocative soundtrack. It’s a stirring reminder of the importance of social responsibility and the call to give back to one’s homeland. You can check out the film here.
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