From classics to modern hits, here are the 10 Bollywood movies that shaped Indian cinema and captured millions of hearts worldwide.
1. Sholay (1975)
Why it matters:
A genre-defining film that blended action, drama, and friendship. It introduced unforgettable characters like Jai-Veeru and Gabbar Singh, embedding itself into pop culture forever.
Legacy:
Still quoted today, it’s India’s answer to a Western — with an emotional heart.
2. Mughal-e-Azam (1960)
Why it matters:
A grand romantic epic set in the Mughal era. Its art direction, dialogues, and music remain unmatched in grandeur.
Legacy:
Symbol of opulence and timeless love stories.
3. Lagaan (2001)
Why it matters:
A cricket-based underdog story that mixed patriotism with sports, and even earned an Oscar nomination.
Legacy:
Proved that Indian storytelling can resonate globally without losing its soul.
4. DDLJ – Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Why it matters:
Redefined romance for a generation and has the longest-running theatrical release in Indian history.
Legacy:
Shah Rukh Khan became “King of Romance” — and Raj & Simran became eternal.
5. Mother India (1957)
Why it matters:
India’s first official Oscar entry. A portrayal of a resilient woman’s strength, sacrifice, and motherland.
Legacy:
Defined Indian motherhood and patriotism for decades.
6. Gully Boy (2019)
Why it matters:
Took Indian hip-hop mainstream and told an aspirational rags-to-riches story inspired by real rappers Divine and Naezy.
Legacy:
Connected with Gen Z and brought street culture to big screens.
7. Pakeezah (1972)
Why it matters:
A poetic tale of love, longing, and elegance. The visuals, music, and Meena Kumari’s performance created timeless nostalgia.
Legacy:
Epitome of classical Bollywood grace.
8. Andaz Apna Apna (1994)
Why it matters:
A cult comedy with unmatched timing and memes before memes existed. Amar and Prem still reign in comic timing.
Legacy:
Still quoted in daily conversation — a classic that never ages.
9. Queen (2014)
Why it matters:
Empowered women through a simple solo travel narrative. Rani’s journey was every modern Indian woman’s awakening.
Legacy:
Sparked a cultural shift in how women-led stories are perceived.
10. RRR (2022)
Why it matters:
Pan-India blockbuster with global applause. Action-packed, emotional, and mythologically inspired — it made history by winning an Oscar for Best Original Song.
Legacy:
Rewrote the definition of mass cinema in the age of global OTT.
