A Journey Through Indian Cinema's History and Its Finest Films

Indian cinema, often referred to as Bollywood, has carved a special place in the hearts of millions of people across the globe. But do you know how old its history is and which films have been considered its finest? If not, this article is just for you!

1. Raja Harishchandra

Released in 1913, Raja Harishchandra was the first film in Indian cinema, marking the beginning of a revolution. Directed and produced by Dadasaheb Phalke, the film is based on the story of King Harishchandra, and it laid the foundation for Indian cinema.

2. Alam Ara

Released in 1931, Alam Ara was the first sound film in Indian cinema, marking the beginning of the soundtrack era. Directed by Ardeshir Irani, it revolves around a king and his two wives, Nawbahar and Dilbahar, who are unable to bear children.

3. Kisan Kanya

Kisan Kanya (1937) was the first color film in Indian cinema, revolutionizing the way films were made. Directed by Moti Gidvani, this film was produced by Ardeshir Irani under Imperial Pictures, setting a new milestone in Indian cinema history.

4. Awaara

Awaara, released in 1951, is a cult classic by Raj Kapoor, who directed and produced the film. Known as the first "showman" of Indian cinema, Raj Kapoor’s iconic collaboration with actress Nargis made this film one of his most memorable works. It was filmed at R.K. Studios and Bombay and is still regarded as one of Raj Kapoor’s finest.

5. Do Bigha Zamin

Directed by Bimal Roy, Do Bigha Zamin (1953) blended art cinema with commercial success. The film, which won an international award at the 1954 Cannes Film Festival, also marked the beginning of the Filmfare Awards.

6. Shyamchi Aai

Shyamchi Aai, released in 1953, was a Marathi film that won the first National Film Award in Indian cinema. Directed by P.K. Atre, the film introduced new faces and gave Marathi cinema a fresh identity.

7. Nagin

Starring Vyjayanthimala, Nagin (1959) was India’s first musical blockbuster with an evergreen soundtrack, featuring hits like "Man Dole Mera Tan Dole", "Jadugar Saiyan", and "Sun Re Sakhi". The film became one of the biggest hits of its time.

8. Pather Panchali

Released in 1955, Pather Panchali directed by Satyajit Ray was India’s first international hit, putting Indian cinema on the global map. Based on Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay’s novel, the film was a masterclass in filmmaking by Ray, who was not only a director but also a writer and artist.

9. Kaagaz Ke Phool

Directed by Guru Dutt, Kaagaz Ke Phool (1957) is a romantic drama often regarded as one of the finest films in Hindi cinema. Despite its initial commercial failure, the film later gained recognition as one of the 100 best films in the world.

10. Madhumati

Directed by Bimal Roy, Madhumati (1958) was one of the first films in Indian cinema to explore reincarnation as a central theme. Starring Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala, this film went on to become a massive success, with many remakes on similar themes following.

11. Do Aankhen Barah Haath (1957)

This 1957 film, directed by V. Shantaram, is considered one of his finest works. Do Aankhen Barah Haath taught society that even criminals can be reformed? The film’s optimistic story focuses on finding good in the worst of circumstances, with the message that humans are not inherently bad—only their actions are.

12. Mother India

Directed by Mehboob Khan, Mother India (1957) was India’s first film to be nominated for an Oscar. Although it lost to the Italian film Nights of Cabiria, it remains a milestone in Indian cinema, with performances by Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar, and Raj Kumar.

13. Mughal-e-Azam

Mughal-e-Azam (1960) remains one of the most iconic and expensive films in Indian cinema history, costing a whopping 1.5 crore rupees at the time. Directed by K. Asif, the epic historical drama, starring Dilip Kumar and Madhubala, became a classic and won multiple National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards.

14. Guide

Guide (1965), directed by Vijay Anand, was one of Dev Anand's finest films. Based on the novel The Guide by R.K. Narayan, the film solidified Dev Anand’s status as the "first stylish superstar" of Indian cinema.

15. Teesri Manzil

Directed by Vijay Anand, Teesri Manzil (1966) was a musical thriller featuring Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh. With its popular songs and Shammi Kapoor’s dance moves, the film offered Indian cinema a new kind of entertainment that was fresh and thrilling.

16. Haqeeqat

Haqeeqat (1964), directed by Chetan Anand, is regarded as one of India’s finest war films. Set against the backdrop of the 1962 India-China war, it starred Dharmendra and Balraj Sahni and was praised for its realistic portrayal of war.

17. Chemmeen

Chemmeen (1965) is a classic Malayalam film that delves into inter-religious relationships. It was showcased at the Cannes Film Festival and became a landmark in Malayalam cinema.

18. Bhuvan Shome

Directed by Mrinal Sen, Bhuvan Shome (1969) was one of the first parallel cinema films in India. Based on a Bengali story by Balaichand Mukhopadhyay, the film starred Utpal Dutt and is a significant work in the history of Indian art films.

19. Ankur

Released in 1974, Ankur marked the debut of director Shyam Benegal and began a new wave of directors in Indian cinema. The film, which won three National Film Awards, is regarded as a landmark in parallel cinema.

20. Sholay

Sholay (1975), directed by Ramesh Sippy, is considered the biggest commercial hit in Indian cinema history. The film broke box-office records, earning 15 crore rupees—an astronomical figure at the time. Featuring iconic performances from Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, and Amjad Khan, Sholay became a cultural phenomenon.

21. Golmaal

Released in 1981, Golmaal is one of Indian cinema’s most beloved comedies, depicting the intricacies of middle-class life in a humorous yet endearing manner. Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, it starred Amol Palekar, Utpal Dutt, and Bindiya Goswami. The film’s clever script and performances made it an enduring classic.

22. Ardh Satya

Ardh Satya (1983) is a gritty drama that explores the harsh realities of police corruption and the inner turmoil of a moral man. Starring Om Puri and Smita Patil, the film was directed by Govind Nihalani and featured powerful performances by Amrish Puri, Sadashiv Amrapurkar, Naseeruddin Shah, and Shafi Inamdar. The film remains a significant piece in Indian cinema for its raw portrayal of society’s truths.

23. Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro

Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1985) is considered one of the finest dark comedies in Indian cinema. Directed by Kundan Shah, it starred Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Pankaj Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, and Neena Gupta. The film’s satire on corruption and its brilliant comedic timing continue to make it a cult favorite.

24. Mr. India

Mr. India (1987) was India’s first sci-fi film that captured the imagination of a whole generation. Directed by Shekhar Kapur, it starred Anil Kapoor, Sridevi, and Amrish Puri. The film's unique premise, engaging storyline, and memorable characters, along with the iconic "Hawa Hawai" song, solidified its place in Indian cinematic history.

25. Nayakan

Nayakan (1987), a Tamil film directed by Mani Ratnam, is often regarded as the "Godfather" of Indian cinema. Based on the life of gangster Varadarajan Mudaliar, the film starred Kamal Haasan in the lead role. It is widely considered a masterpiece, and in 2005, Time Magazine included it in its list of the "All-Time 100 Best Films."

26. Pushpak

Pushpak (1987) is an experimental film in Indian cinema, directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. Starring Kamal Haasan and Amala, this silent black-and-white film is known for its unique narrative style and captivating visual storytelling, making it a timeless classic among Indian film lovers.

27. Salaam Bombay!

Directed by Mira Nair, Salaam Bombay! (1988) is a gritty drama about the lives of street children in Mumbai. The film garnered international acclaim and was India’s second-ever film to be nominated for an Oscar. It remains a powerful critique of urban poverty and social injustice.

28. Parinda

Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, Parinda (1990) is a crime drama that presents the dark world of Mumbai’s underworld. The film is known for its realistic portrayal of crime and its tragic storyline. It helped establish new talent in the industry and earned widespread critical acclaim.

29. Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!

Released in 1994, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, directed by Sooraj R. Barjatya, became a cultural phenomenon. Starring Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit, the film’s family-friendly narrative and memorable songs made it a timeless classic. It ran for an incredible 125 weeks at Mumbai’s Liberty Cinema, and continues to be a favorite among families across the country.

30. Bandit Queen

Bandit Queen (1994), directed by Shekhar Kapur, is a biographical film based on the life of the notorious bandit Phoolan Devi. The film exposed caste-based discrimination and violence in rural India. Seema Biswas’ portrayal of Phoolan Devi earned her critical acclaim, and the film won three National Film Awards, including Best Feature Film, Best Actress, and Best Costume Design.

31. Satya

Satya (1998), directed by Ram Gopal Varma, is a film that presented the raw and unfiltered truth of Mumbai’s underworld. The film is famous for its stark portrayal of gang wars and corruption. It starred J.D. Chakravarthy, Manoj Bajpayee, and Urmila Matondkar. Its realistic tone and gripping narrative are key elements that helped it become a cult classic.

32. Lagaan

Lagaan (2001), directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, is one of the most famous Indian films internationally. The film, which tells the story of Indian villagers challenging British colonial rule through a cricket match, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Starring Aamir Khan and Gracy Singh, Lagaan was a groundbreaking achievement in Indian cinema.

33. Munna Bhai MBBS

Munna Bhai MBBS (2003) is a comedy-drama directed by Rajkumar Hirani, which brought a fresh and humorous perspective to the Indian film industry. Starring Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, and Boman Irani, the film explores the relationship between a gangster and his journey into becoming a doctor. Its success marked the beginning of Hirani’s iconic career.

34. Rang De Basanti (2006)

Released in 2006, Rang De Basanti directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, became a movement for India’s youth. The film, which stars Aamir Khan and a stellar ensemble cast, tells the story of young people who are inspired by India’s freedom fighters. The film's impact was so great that it became a cultural reference point for the youth of India and was even nominated for a BAFTA for Best Foreign Language Film.

35. Black Friday

Black Friday (2007), directed by Anurag Kashyap, is a gripping crime drama based on the 1993 Mumbai bombings. The film features powerful performances by KK Menon, Aditya Srivastava, Pawan Malhotra, and Zakir Hussain. It was widely praised for its realistic portrayal of the events surrounding the bombings and its raw, intense storytelling.

36. Chak De! India

Chak De! India (2007) is a sports drama that revolutionized how Indian cinema portrayed women’s empowerment. The film, starring Shah Rukh Khan, follows the journey of a former hockey player who coaches the Indian women’s hockey team to victory, teaching society that women are just as capable as men. Directed by Shimit Amin and produced by Yash Raj Films under Aditya Chopra's banner, the film became a symbol of determination and belief in women’s potential.

37. 3 Idiots

3 Idiots (2008) is a coming-of-age drama that challenged conventional ideas about success and academic pressure. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film starred Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Kareena Kapoor, Boman Irani, and Sharman Joshi. It emphasized the importance of pursuing one's passion over societal expectations and became one of the highest-grossing films in Indian cinema. The movie’s message resonated with both young and older generations, making it a modern classic.

38. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)

Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) was a groundbreaking film in the Indian film industry that introduced a gritty and realistic portrayal of the criminal underworld. Directed by Anurag Kashyap, the film was split into two parts and featured stellar performances by Manoj Bajpayee, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Richa Chadda, Huma Qureshi, Pankaj Tripathi, and many others. Its unique narrative style, dark humor, and political undertones made it a cult classic that redefined the gangster genre in Indian cinema.

39. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

Directed by Farhan Akhtar, Dil Chahta Hai (2001) is a film that captured the essence of urban youth in modern India. It portrayed the lives of three friends, their journeys of self-discovery, and their relationships. The film revolutionized Bollywood with its contemporary storytelling, fresh visuals, and new-age music. Today, it remains a favorite among the youth, and its influence is still felt in Indian cinema.

40. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham

Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), directed by Karan Johar, is one of the most iconic Bollywood family dramas. This multi-starrer film explores the complexities of love, relationships, and social expectations. With its grand sets, memorable songs, and stellar performances, it became an emotional and commercial juggernaut that remains a household favorite, especially among family audiences.

41. Baahubali

S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali (2015) is a cinematic spectacle that took Indian cinema to unprecedented heights. With its larger-than-life scale, breathtaking visuals, and epic storytelling, Baahubali became a cultural phenomenon. The film’s success transcended language barriers, and it helped bring Indian cinema to the global stage, proving that Indian filmmakers could create world-class blockbusters.

42. Padmaavat

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Padmaavat (2018) is an epic historical drama based on the legend of the Rajput queen Padmavati. The film is known for its grandeur, stunning visuals, and powerful performances, particularly by Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor, and Ranveer Singh. The film’s intricate costumes, magnificent sets, and compelling narrative won critical acclaim despite facing significant controversies.

43. Gully Boy

Zoya Akhtar’s Gully Boy (2019) brought Mumbai’s underground hip-hop scene to the forefront. The film, starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, told the story of a young rapper’s rise from the slums to fame, capturing the dreams and struggles of the youth. It resonated with audiences for its fresh narrative and inspiring themes of perseverance and self-expression. The film’s success also propelled actor Siddhant Chaturvedi into the limelight.

44. Andhadhun

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Andhadhun (2018) is a dark comedy thriller that blends suspense, drama, and a touch of humor. Starring Ayushmann Khurrana, Tabu, and Radhika Apte, the film tells the story of a blind pianist caught in a web of murder, deception, and mystery. Its unpredictable plot twists and exceptional performances kept audiences on the edge of their seats, making it one of the standout films of 2018.

45. Pink

Pink (2016), directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury, is a courtroom drama that addresses crucial issues of consent, sexual harassment, and women’s rights. The film, starring Amitabh Bachchan and Taapsee Pannu, became a powerful voice for women’s empowerment and education on consent. Its impact extended beyond the screen, raising awareness about gender equality and influencing social change.

46. Badhaai Ho

Directed by Amit Sharma, Badhaai Ho (2018) is a heartwarming comedy-drama that challenges societal norms surrounding middle-aged pregnancies. The film, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Neena Gupta, follows the lives of a family that is shocked by the unexpected news of a pregnancy from their elderly parents. With its humor, sincerity, and insightful commentary on age and family dynamics, the film became a critical and commercial success.

47. Gangubai Kathiawadi

Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) tells the gripping story of Gangubai, a woman who rises from the depths of Mumbai’s red-light district to become a powerful figure in the underworld. Alia Bhatt’s remarkable performance as Gangubai brought the character to life, showing how she transformed from a victim of circumstances to a powerful woman who commanded respect and fear in equal measure.

48. 12th Fail

12th Fail (2023), directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, is a biographical film based on the life of IPS officer Anurag Pathak, who overcame the odds despite failing his 12th-grade exams. The film’s powerful narrative is based on Pathak’s real-life story, adapted from his own book Twelfth Fail. The film stars Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar, and is an inspiring story about perseverance, self-belief, and success in the face of adversity.

49. Queen

Directed by Vikas Bahl, Queen (2014) is a film about self-discovery, independence, and the strength that comes from within. The story follows Rani Mehra, played by Kangana Ranaut, who embarks on a solo honeymoon trip to Europe after her marriage is called off. The film beautifully explores themes of self-love, freedom, and empowerment and remains a quintessential story of a woman reclaiming her life and identity.

50. Laapataa Ladies

Laapataa Ladies (2023), directed by Kiran Rao, is a social satire focused on women’s empowerment through the lens of a young married couple. The film, featuring Nitanshi Goyal, Pratibha Ranta, and Ravi Kishan, explores the theme of women’s independence and challenges traditional gender roles. Lost Ladies was featured at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and was selected by the Film Federation of India (FFI) as India’s official entry for the Oscars.

These are the films that are regarded as some of the best in Indian cinema. They encompass a wide range of themes—from silent films to color films, stories of reincarnation, the entry of new talent, and the importance of women. Each of these films has contributed something unique to the cinematic landscape, making them timeless and significant in the history of Indian cinema.

by Priyanka Yadav