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Best bollywood movies of all time

Dive into the heart of Indian cinema with a list of some of the most beloved and iconic Bollywood movies ever made. These films have captivated audiences for generations.

Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India
Bajrangi Bhaijaan
Veer-Zaara

Bollywood, the Hindi film industry based in Mumbai, is renowned for its larger-than-life storytelling, captivating music, and emotional depth. The movies on this list represent a golden era, featuring blockbusters that not only dominated the Indian box office but also gained significant popularity internationally.

This selection showcases the diverse range within mainstream Hindi cinema, from epic romances and family dramas that explore relationships and traditions, to films that subtly weave in social commentary or historical contexts.

Many of these films feature legendary actors who became global icons, like Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Aamir Khan, and Amitabh Bachchan, whose on-screen chemistry and performances became synonymous with the era's success. The music, often composed by maestros and featuring playback singers who are stars in their own right, is integral to the narrative, with songs and dance sequences becoming cultural phenomena.

Watching these films offers a fantastic gateway into understanding the cultural nuances, values, and entertainment style that define popular Hindi cinema. They are not just movies; they are cultural touchstones that continue to be watched and celebrated today.

14. Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006)

A more mature and complex take on relationships, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, directed by Karan Johar, delves into the sensitive subject of extramarital affairs. Set in New York, the film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, and Preity Zinta as two couples whose lives become intertwined. The film sparked considerable discussion upon its release for its unconventional theme in mainstream Bollywood. It features a sophisticated visual style and a popular soundtrack by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, exploring the challenges and consequences of seeking happiness outside of marriage.

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna

13. Koi... Mil Gaya (2003)

India's first major science fiction film featuring an alien! Koi... Mil Gaya, directed by Rakesh Roshan, tells the story of a young man with a developmental disability who befriends an alien and gains special abilities. Hrithik Roshan gives a transformative performance as Rohit, which was widely praised. The film successfully blended elements of sci-fi, drama, and even musical numbers, paving the way for the superhero franchise 'Krrish'. It's a unique film in Hindi cinema that explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the wonder of the unknown.

Koi... Mil Gaya

12. Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)

A musical romantic drama that explores the idea of soulmates. Dil To Pagal Hai, directed by Yash Chopra, centers around a dance troupe and the intertwined lives of its members, played by Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Karisma Kapoor. The film is celebrated for its energetic dance sequences, choreographed by Shiamak Davar, and its incredibly popular soundtrack by Uttam Singh, which won numerous awards. It captures the passion of performers and the complexities of love triangles, set against the backdrop of theatre life. Karisma Kapoor won a National Film Award for her performance.

Dil To Pagal Hai

11. My Name Is Khan (2010)

A powerful and sensitive film that tackles complex themes of identity, faith, and prejudice in the post-9/11 world. My Name Is Khan, directed by Karan Johar, sees Shah Rukh Khan deliver a critically acclaimed performance as Rizwan Khan, a Muslim man with Asperger's syndrome who embarks on a journey across America. The film is a departure for Karan Johar, known for his family dramas, and it explores serious social issues with empathy. Kajol stars as his wife, Mandira, and their chemistry is a highlight. The film's message of humanity and acceptance resonated globally.

My Name Is Khan

10. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001)

A grand, multi-starrer family epic that delves into themes of love, respect, and reconciliation. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, directed by Karan Johar, boasts a stellar ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor. The film tells the story of a wealthy family estranged due to the patriarch's rigid beliefs and his adopted son's marriage choice. Known for its lavish production design, grand musical sequences, and emotional depth, the film was a major success both in India and internationally. It's a saga about family ties and the journey back home.

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

9. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)

Karan Johar's directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, is a beloved romantic drama that captures the essence of college friendships and finding love. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji, the film follows a man who reads letters left by his deceased wife, guiding their daughter to reunite him with his college best friend. The film is known for its iconic characters, catchy songs by Jatin–Lalit, and its portrayal of friendship evolving into love. It was a massive hit upon release and remains a nostalgic favorite for many, embodying the romantic spirit of the late 90s Bollywood.

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

8. Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)

A quintessential Indian family drama that became a cultural phenomenon! Hum Aapke Hain Koun.. is a Rajshri Productions classic starring Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit. The film is a celebration of Indian weddings, family values, and traditions, told through the story of two families and the budding romance between their younger members. It is famous for its record-breaking 14 songs, which were integral to the narrative, depicting various ceremonies and emotions. The film was a colossal box office success, becoming one of the highest-grossing Indian films ever at the time. It's a wholesome, entertaining movie that set benchmarks for family entertainers in Bollywood.

Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!

7. Jab We Met (2007)

Embark on a delightful train journey filled with self-discovery and unexpected romance! Jab We Met, directed by Imtiaz Ali, is a charming romantic comedy that follows the journey of a depressed businessman who meets a lively, talkative woman on a train. Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor deliver some of their career-best performances, with Kareena's portrayal of Geet becoming particularly iconic. The film's strength lies in its realistic characters, engaging narrative, and the beautiful transition of their relationship. The soundtrack by Pritam is incredibly popular and perfectly complements the film's mood. It's a feel-good movie that celebrates embracing life and finding love in the most unexpected places.

Jab We Met

6. Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)

Set against the bustling backdrop of New York City, Kal Ho Naa Ho is a poignant story about living life to the fullest. Produced by Karan Johar and directed by Nikhil Advani, it stars Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan in a complex love triangle. The film is renowned for its sharp, witty dialogues written by Niranjan Iyengar and its incredibly popular and diverse soundtrack by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, which ranges from heartfelt ballads to energetic dance numbers. Despite its emotional core, the film is filled with humor and focuses on finding happiness and making the most of the present. It's a touching narrative that explores friendship, family, and the bittersweet nature of love.

Kal Ho Naa Ho

5. Veer-Zaara (2004)

A timeless saga of love, separation, and sacrifice spanning decades and borders. Veer-Zaara is legendary director Yash Chopra's return to romance, telling the story of an Indian Air Force pilot, Veer Pratap Singh, and a Pakistani woman, Zaara Haayat Khan, whose love story is tragically cut short by circumstances. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Preity Zinta, their chemistry is simply captivating. The film is noted for its classic, soulful music composed by the late Madan Mohan, with lyrics by Javed Akhtar, resurrected and arranged by his son Sanjeev Kohli. It's a sweeping, emotional epic that explores themes of love, duty, and justice, set against the backdrop of Indo-Pak relations.

Veer-Zaara

4. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015)

A heartwarming journey across borders that will leave you teary-eyed and uplifted. Bajrangi Bhaijaan tells the story of an honest Indian man who finds a mute Pakistani girl lost in India and embarks on a mission to reunite her with her family back home. Salman Khan delivers one of his most praised performances in this film, showcasing a vulnerability rarely seen before. The film also introduced the incredibly talented child actor Harshaali Malhotra, whose expressive eyes conveyed so much without dialogue. Directed by Kabir Khan, the movie beautifully tackles themes of humanity, compassion, and cross-border harmony. It was a massive box office success and garnered critical acclaim for its emotional depth and message.

Bajrangi Bhaijaan

3. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001)

Get ready for a cinematic experience that's as thrilling as a cricket match! Lagaan is a truly epic sports drama set in the British Raj, where a small village challenges their oppressive rulers to a game of cricket to avoid paying taxes. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker and produced by and starring Aamir Khan, this film was a massive undertaking, shot in a remote village in Gujarat with a huge ensemble cast. It made history by being the third Indian film ever nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film's strength lies in its compelling narrative, brilliant performances, and A.R. Rahman's stunning musical score, which perfectly captures the spirit of the era and the struggle. It's a story of courage, unity, and the underdog spirit.

Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India

2. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)

An absolute cornerstone of Hindi cinema! Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, affectionately known as DDLJ, is the ultimate romantic classic that defined love for a generation. Directed by Aditya Chopra in his directorial debut, this film stars the iconic pairing of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol as Raj and Simran. Their journey from reluctant acquaintances in Europe to soulmates navigating traditional Indian values captured hearts worldwide. Did you know this film holds the record for the longest-running film in the history of Indian cinema, playing continuously at Mumbai's Maratha Mandir theatre for over 20 years? Its charm lies in its perfect blend of romance, family values, gorgeous European locales, and unforgettable songs by Jatin–Lalit. It's more than a movie; it's a cultural touchstone.

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge

1. 3 Idiots (2009)

Prepare to laugh, cry, and question everything you thought you knew about education! 3 Idiots isn't just a film; it's a phenomenon that resonated deeply across generations. Directed by the brilliant Rajkumar Hirani, this movie is loosely based on Chetan Bhagat's novel 'Five Point Someone'. What makes it truly special is Aamir Khan's portrayal of Rancho, a free-spirited student who challenges the conventional system. The film is packed with witty dialogues, hilarious situations, and genuinely moving moments. It became the highest-grossing Bollywood film at the time of its release and holds the record for the highest-grossing Indian film overseas for many years. A must-watch for its incredible story, fantastic performances, and powerful message about following your passion.

3 Idiots

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