Introduction
India is home to some of the most fascinating and captivating films in the world. From the classic Bollywood musicals to the intense dramas of the parallel cinema movement, Indian cinema has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted comedy or a thought-provoking drama, there are countless must-see Indian films that will delight, entertain, and educate.
In this article, we will explore the best Indian movies ever made. We will examine five of the top films that everyone should see, as well as provide a guide to the best Indian cinema, a comprehensive list of the most influential films, and the ultimate collection of must-see Indian movies. So, if you’re ready to take a journey through time and explore the wonders of Indian cinema, let’s get started!
Top 5 Indian Movies Everyone Should See
There are so many incredible Indian films that it can be difficult to decide which ones to watch first. To help make your decision easier, here are our top five must-see Indian movies:
- Sholay (1975): This classic Bollywood action-adventure film follows two small-time criminals who are hired by a former police officer to help him capture a dangerous bandit. With its memorable characters, memorable dialogue, and thrilling action sequences, Sholay is considered one of the greatest films ever made in India.
- Mughal-e-Azam (1960): This epic historical drama tells the story of a prince who falls in love with a court dancer, despite his father’s opposition. The film features spectacular sets and costumes, as well as unforgettable songs. It is considered one of the greatest films ever made in India.
- Mother India (1957): This landmark film tells the story of a poor woman who struggles to raise her sons after her husband abandons them. The film is both a powerful drama and a passionate plea for social justice. It is widely regarded as one of the best films ever made in India.
- Pather Panchali (1955): This classic Bengali film tells the story of a young boy growing up in rural India. With its beautiful cinematography and heartbreaking story, Pather Panchali is considered one of the greatest films ever made in India.
- Anand (1971): This beloved drama tells the story of a terminally ill man who finds solace in friendship. With its moving performances and poignant themes, Anand is one of the most beloved films ever made in India.
A Guide to the Best Indian Cinema: Must Watch Films
Indian cinema is a broad term that encompasses a variety of different genres, styles, and eras. From the early days of silent films to the modern blockbusters of today, Indian cinema has something for everyone. Here is a guide to the best Indian cinema, featuring must-watch films from each genre.
Silent Films: The earliest films in India were silent films, which featured stories inspired by mythology, fantasy, and romance. Some of the most notable silent films include Raja Harishchandra (1913) and Kaliya Mardan (1919).
Bollywood Musicals: Bollywood films are known for their vibrant musical numbers, colorful costumes, and larger-than-life storylines. Some of the most iconic Bollywood films include Sholay (1975), Mughal-e-Azam (1960), and Mother India (1957).
Parallel Cinema: Parallel cinema was a movement in Indian cinema that began in the 1950s. These films explored more realistic stories and themes, often focusing on social issues such as poverty and gender inequality. Notable examples of parallel cinema include Pather Panchali (1955), Anand (1971), and Salaam Bombay (1988).
New Wave Cinema: New wave cinema is a more recent movement in Indian cinema that began in the 1980s. These films often focus on urban life and feature more experimental techniques. Notable examples of new wave cinema include Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), Salaam Bombay (1988), and Dil Chahta Hai (2001).
Contemporary Blockbusters: Contemporary Indian films are often big-budget spectacles with star-studded casts and stunning visuals. Some of the most successful contemporary films include 3 Idiots (2009), Dangal (2016), and Padmaavat (2018).
A Comprehensive List of the Most Influential Indian Films
Throughout the history of Indian cinema, there have been countless iconic films that have left a lasting impression on audiences around the world. Here is a list of some of the most influential Indian films:
- Raja Harishchandra (1913): This is considered the first full-length Indian feature film. Directed by Dadasaheb Phalke, it tells the story of a noble king who is tested by various trials and tribulations.
- Kala Naag (1926): This horror film is credited with popularizing horror films in India. Directed by Jyotish Sarkar, it tells the story of a group of people who are terrorized by a mysterious snake-like creature.
- Achhut Kanya (1936): This romantic drama is credited with helping to break down caste barriers in Indian society. Directed by Franz Osten, it tells the story of a young woman who is ostracized for being an untouchable but ultimately finds love and acceptance.
- Mother India (1957): This landmark film is credited with helping to redefine the role of women in Indian cinema. Directed by Mehboob Khan, it tells the story of a poor woman who struggles to raise her sons after her husband abandons them.
- Pyaasa (1957): This romantic drama is credited with helping to launch the parallel cinema movement in India. Directed by Guru Dutt, it tells the story of a disillusioned poet who finds solace in the love of a prostitute.
- Sholay (1975): This classic Bollywood action-adventure film is credited with helping to redefine the genre. Directed by Ramesh Sippy, it follows two small-time criminals who are hired by a former police officer to help him capture a dangerous bandit.
- Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983): This acclaimed comedy is credited with launching the new wave cinema movement in India. Directed by Kundan Shah, it follows two photographers who uncover a vast conspiracy while trying to take pictures for a magazine.
- Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995): This romantic comedy is credited with helping to revive the Bollywood musical genre. Directed by Aditya Chopra, it follows an Indian man who travels to London to win back the love of his life.
- Lagaan (2001): This sports drama is credited with helping to popularize the genre in India. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, it tells the story of a group of villagers who challenge their British rulers to a game of cricket.
- 3 Idiots (2009): This blockbuster comedy is credited with helping to redefine the genre in India. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, it follows three friends on a quest to find their true purpose in life.
The Ultimate Collection of Must-See Indian Movies
From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, here is the ultimate collection of must-see Indian movies:
- Awaara (1951): This classic Bollywood musical follows a vagabond who is torn between his love for a wealthy heiress and his loyalty to his criminal friend.
- Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959): This groundbreaking drama follows a director whose life is turned upside down when his muse decides to leave him.
- Gumnaam (1965): This suspenseful mystery follows a group of strangers who are stranded on an island and pursued by a mysterious killer.
- Deewaar (1975): This classic Bollywood crime drama follows two brothers who are on opposite sides of the law.
- Saransh (1984): This acclaimed drama follows a young man who is struggling to come to terms with the death of his parents.
- Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992): This beloved sports drama follows two brothers who are competing against each other in a bicycle race.
- Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006): This beloved comedy follows a gangster who discovers the power of Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy.
- Rang De Basanti (2006): This inspiring drama follows a group of college students who become involved in the fight for independence.
- Taare Zameen Par (2007): This heartwarming drama follows a young boy who struggles to fit in at school until he meets a teacher who helps him unlock his potential.
- PK (2014): This blockbuster comedy follows an alien who embarks on a journey to discover the meaning of life.
Conclusion
From the silent films of the early 20th century to the contemporary blockbusters of today, Indian cinema has something for everyone. This article has provided an in-depth exploration into the best Indian movies from different genres and eras. We have examined five of the top films that everyone should see, as well as provided a guide to the best Indian cinema, a comprehensive list of the most influential films, and the ultimate collection of must-see Indian movies.
If you’re looking to explore the wonders of Indian cinema, these films are a great place to start.
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