Welcome to a journey through Indian cinema as we celebrate the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time. These films are more than entertainment—they are cultural landmarks that have inspired audiences across generations. From gripping dramas and epic romances to groundbreaking comedies, each film reflects the depth of Bollywood storytelling. This curated list highlights masterpieces that often appear on every “must-watch” list of top Bollywood movies. We’ll explore what makes each film exceptional—from powerful narratives and performances to their lasting impact on global cinema. Prepare to dive deep into the magic that defines the 10 best movies of all time Bollywood.
1. Pyaasa (1957)
Our journey begins with Pyaasa, a poignant masterpiece that holds an impressive IMDB Rating of 8.3/10. The legendary Guru Dutt directs and stars in this film, which delves into the life of Vijay, a poet whose profound verses about the struggles of the destitute and poor society scorn and reject. In this section, we explore the intense narrative and themes that make Pyaasa a timeless classic.
Vijay’s plight is heartbreaking; his own brothers ridicule him, and publishers dismiss him, failing to recognize the genius in his work. His despair is a central theme, highlighting the often-unrecognized value of art and truth in a materialistic world. The narrative takes a powerful turn when Vijay encounters Gulabo, a compassionate prostitute portrayed by Waheeda Rehman, who sees the true worth in his poems. The story escalates dramatically when someone tragically kills a homeless man wearing a coat Vijay had given him. Believing Vijay to be dead, Gulabo seizes the opportunity to publish his poems. The irony and tragedy deepen as Vijay’s works soar to immense popularity, fueled by the myth surrounding his supposed death. When he eventually reappears, he confronts the harsh reality that few of those he once trusted truly deserve his trust.
What makes Pyaasa exceptional is its emotional intensity and ability to immerse viewers in raw, heartfelt storytelling. The film explores the struggles of a passionate poet in a society that often ignores true artistic expression. This depth of feeling and unwavering focus on its central character’s journey solidifies Pyaasa‘s place among the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time.
2. Mughal-e-Azam (1960)
Next on our list is the historical epic, Mughal-e-Azam, boasting an IMDB Rating of 8.1/10. Set against the magnificent backdrop of Emperor Akbar’s 16th-century Mughal court, this film is a grand tragic love story that explores themes of duty, love, and rebellion. In this segment, we will delve into the brilliant screenplay, unforgettable dialogue, and powerful performances that define this classic.
The film centers on Prince Saleem, the heir to the mighty Mughal throne, who falls deeply in love with Anaarkali, a beautiful commoner. This forbidden romance ignites a monumental conflict with his father, Emperor Akbar, who vehemently opposes his son marrying outside of his royal social status. The heart of this saga lies in the troubled and titanic battle of wills between father and son, a conflict that forms the emotional core of this timeless narrative.
Director-writer K. Asif crafted what many consider one of the finest screenplays ever written in Indian cinema, distinguished by its unrivaled dialogue and exquisite use of Urdu. A cast of brilliant actors brings the power of this script to life with performances; whether in lead roles or brief appearances; that are truly exceptional. The grandeur, the emotional depth, and the sheer cinematic scale of Mughal-e-Azam have cemented its status as one of the top 10 all time blockbuster Bollywood movies, continuing to captivate audiences with its tragic beauty.
3. Sholay (1975)
Moving forward to a landmark in Indian cinema, we arrive at Sholay, which also holds a strong IMDB Rating of 8.1/10. Many regard this iconic action-adventure film as one of the best Indian films ever made, praising its gripping plot, memorable characters, and groundbreaking action sequences. This section will highlight the elements that make Sholay an enduring phenomenon.
The story unfolds in Ramgarh, where retired police chief Thakur Baldev Singh seeks revenge against the bandit Gabbar Singh. To do so, Thakur recruits two small-time criminals—sharp-witted Jai and impulsive Veeru—to take on Gabbar. When Gabbar brutally attacks the village, Jai and Veeru are confused by Thakur’s refusal to fight back. They soon uncover a terrible truth: Gabbar had severed both of Thakur’s arms years ago. This shocking revelation fuels their anger and strengthens their resolve to protect the villagers. Together, they rise against Gabbar, leading to a fierce and unforgettable showdown with the ruthless bandit.
Sholay features flawless casting—Amitabh Bachchan as stoic Jai, Dharmendra as spirited Veeru, and Asrani as the hilarious cop. Each actor delivers an iconic performance that has become legendary in Indian cinema. R.D. Burman’s music is excellent and plays a vital role in the film’s lasting popularity. Sholay’s action scenes set a new standard, with many considering them the best in Indian film history. The climax delivers a thrilling and powerful resolution to the film’s intense central conflict. Its high rewatch value and impact on Indian cinema cement Sholay as a top 10 Bollywood classic.
4. Umrao Jaan (1981)
Our next cinematic marvel is Umrao Jaan, with an IMDB Rating of 7.7/10, a film celebrated for its stunning visuals and poetic narrative. This section will explore the captivating story of a courtesan’s life, marked by love, loss, and an enduring quest for happiness.
The narrative begins tragically when a corrupt cop sells Amiran, a young girl, to a brothel after her father testifies against him. Many years later, Amiran blossomed into Umrao Jaan, an accomplished poetess and renowned courtesan. Her life, depicted with exquisite detail, becomes a poetic memoir of love and loss, portraying her longing for a “happily ever after” that tragically never materializes.
Umrao Jaan captivates viewers with its stunning cinematography, as each frame bursts with lavish detail. Glamorous costumes and intricate, sparkling jewelry further enhance the visual splendor, creating a true feast for the eyes. The film’s artistic presentation perfectly complements its melancholic themes, making it a true classic that explores the depths of human emotion and resilience. Its artistic merit and poignant storytelling firmly place Umrao Jaan on any list of the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time.
5. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
No discussion of the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time would be complete without mentioning Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, affectionately known as DDLJ, which holds an IMDB Rating of 8/10. This film redefined romance in Indian cinema and remains a beloved classic for its charm, music, and enduring appeal. In this section, we will delve into what makes this movie a true Indian fairy tale.
The story revolves around Raj and Simran, who meet and fall in love during a vibrant trip through Europe. However, their budding romance faces a significant hurdle when Raj discovers that Simran has already been promised to another man. Determined to win her over, Raj follows Simran to India, embarking on a quest not just to win her heart but also the approval of her traditional father.
DDLJ is widely regarded as a “Perfect Indian Fairy tale with a High Repetition Value”. It’s more than just a film; “DDLJ is a self-defining, stand-alone word, not just an abbreviation!”. This statement perfectly encapsulates its profound impact on both romance and filmmaking in India. Its blend of modern love with traditional values, memorable songs, and charismatic performances solidified its place as one of the most iconic and beloved top 10 Bollywood movies of all time.
6. Hera Pheri (2000)
Injecting some much-needed laughter into our list is Hera Pheri, an epic comedy with an impressive IMDB Rating of 8.2/10. This film is celebrated for its hilarious situations and the impeccable comedic timing of its lead actors. Here, we’ll explore the uproarious plot and the performances that make it a standout in Indian comedy.
The premise of Hera Pheri is simple yet ingenious: two tenants and their landlord, all in desperate need of money, stumble upon a ransom call through a cross-connection. Seeing an opportunity, they devise a chaotic scheme to intercept the ransom for themselves, leading to a cascade of side-splitting complications.
This movie is unequivocally an “epic comedy with numerous rib-tickling moments”. The brilliance of the film lies in how the three lead characters—Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Sunil Shetty—get into increasingly absurd trouble due to their shared greed for money. Their performances are described as “perfect,” showcasing their incredible comedic synergy and individual strengths. Hera Pheri‘s enduring popularity and its ability to consistently entertain make it a quintessential entry in any compilation of the top 10 all time blockbuster Bollywood movies.
7. Devdas (2002)
Returning to the realm of grand romantic tragedy, we present Devdas, a visually stunning film with an IMDB Rating of 7.5/10. This opulent adaptation of a classic literary work is renowned for its artistic mastery, lavish production, and poignant portrayal of love and heartbreak. In this section, we will uncover the cinematic artistry that makes Devdas a visual and emotional feast.
The story follows Devdas (Shahrukh Khan), who returns to India after a decade of studying in London. He hopes to marry Paro (Aishwarya Rai), his childhood best friend and beloved. However, his parents (Vijay Crishna and Smita Jaykar) staunchly opposed the union, believing Paro’s family, who are descended from a line of dancers, to be of lower social standing than their own. As a result, Paro is eventually married to another man. Heartbroken and depressed, Devdas succumbs to the devastating grip of life-threatening alcoholism, leading to a tragic downfall.
Devdas is widely acclaimed as a “true visual treat” and a film of “great artistic and cinematographic mastery”. Its magnificence is attributed to being “tremendously well shot with lavish sets, costumes”. While the story itself is a timeless tale that “has been told before,” Devdas sets itself apart by presenting it in an unprecedented and “spectacular setting”. The sheer scale and artistic ambition of Devdas solidify its position among the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time, offering an unforgettable cinematic experience.
8. Swades (2004)
Shifting our focus to a film that beautifully captures the essence of belonging and self-discovery, we examine Swades, which holds an impressive IMDB Rating of 8.2/10. This movie, starring Shahrukh Khan, tells a moving story of a man’s journey back to his roots and the profound impact of rediscovering his homeland. This section will explore the heartfelt narrative and its deep emotional resonance.
Mohan Bhargava, a successful NRI, works at the forefront of technology at NASA in the United States. Driven by nostalgia and longing, he returns to India to find the nanny who lovingly raised him. He hopes to bring her back to America, reconnecting with his roots in the process. Mohan’s journey takes him deep into the rural heart of India, to the village of Charanpur. This trip becomes more than just a search for his nanny; it transforms into an outward and profound inner quest to discover where he truly belongs.
Swades is lauded as a “beautiful, moving, and just damn honest film”. Many praise Shahrukh Khan’s lead performance as “fantastic,” noting the depth and sincerity he brings to Mohan’s journey. The film resonates deeply for its authentic portrayal of rural India and exploration of identity, responsibility, and the meaning of home. These qualities firmly establish Swades as one of the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time.
9. 3 Idiots (2009)
Continuing our journey through iconic cinema, we reach 3 Idiots, a remarkable film with an impressive IMDB Rating of 8.4/10. The film is celebrated not only for its engaging narrative and comedic elements but also for its profound motivational message. In this segment, we will delve into the elements that make this movie an “ahead-of-its-time” Bollywood blockbuster.
The story centers on Farhan and Raju, who form a strong and transformative friendship with Rancho during their college years. Rancho’s unique, upbeat, and refreshing outlook on life challenges conventional thinking and inspires his friends. Years later, a bet sparks a new adventure as Farhan and Raju search for their long-lost, mysterious friend.
3 Idiots is often described as a “remarkable, ahead-of-its-time Bollywood blockbuster.” This comedy skillfully blends humor with meaningful themes, featuring strong acting, memorable characters, and a perplexing, engaging storyline. More importantly, it delivers a motivating message—urging viewers to follow passion and real learning over societal pressure. Its innovative storytelling and impactful message secure 3 Idiots‘ place among the top 10 best Bollywood movies of all time.
10. Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
We conclude our list with Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, a modern romantic drama rated with an IMDB Rating of 7.3/10. The film captivated a new generation with vibrant energy, relatable characters, and a fresh take on love and friendship. In this final section, we’ll look at the critical acclaim and various elements that contributed to its success.
The film introduces Kabir and Naina, who meet during a trekking trip. Naina develops feelings for Kabir but chooses not to express them. As life takes them on different paths, they eventually drift apart, only to reunite years later at a friend’s wedding. Their reunion sparks a rekindling of emotions and a re-evaluation of their lives and aspirations.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani received widespread praise from critics for numerous aspects of its production. Reviewers lauded its direction, story, and screenplay for their freshness and appeal. The film’s soundtrack earned particular praise for its popularity and its ability to enhance the narrative. Furthermore, its cinematography, production design, costumes, and the performances by the entire cast were all commended. This critical appreciation highlights the film’s quality and secures its place among the top 10 Bollywood movies of all time.
The Enduring Legacy of Bollywood’s Best
Our journey through the top 10 Bollywood films showcases the diversity, brilliance, and emotional depth of Indian cinema. From Pyaasa’s societal themes to Mughal-e-Azam’s grandeur, these films span eras, genres, and storytelling styles. Sholay delivers thrilling action, while Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani brings youthful charm and modern romance. Each film—whether romance, comedy, or drama—adds uniquely to the legacy of Indian filmmaking. These all-time blockbusters continue to inspire, entertain, and move audiences across generations. Their timeless appeal secures their place in the rich history of world cinema.