The Ultimate List of Must-Watch Indian Movies Across Genres

India’s film industry is vast and varied, offering a rich tapestry of genres and stories that span across languages and cultures. Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming dramas, thrilling mysteries, or rib-tickling comedies, there’s something in Indian cinema for everyone. Here’s a curated list of must-watch Indian movies, arranged by genre to help you discover some hidden gems and beloved classics. Dive in and find your next favorite movie!

Drama

1. Khamoshi: The Musical (1996)
   A daughter of deaf-mute parents pursues her passion for music, seeking their understanding.
   Rating: 7.5/10
   
2. Kaalapani (1996)
   A doctor is imprisoned in the notorious Cellular Jail, witnessing the brutal realities of colonial oppression.
   Rating: 8.5/10
   
3. Deewana (1992)
   A singer’s life is turned upside down when his uncle schemes to kill him for his fortune.
   Rating: 6.7/10
   
4. Mughal-E-Azam (1960)
   A prince defies his emperor father to be with a courtesan in this timeless love story.
   Rating: 8.1/10
   
5. Sanam Bewafa (1991)
   A couple’s love is tested by their fathers’ deep-seated enmity, leading to a dramatic revelation.
   Rating: 5.2/10
   
6. Suhaag (1994)
   A college student discovers his father’s dark past and seeks justice against those who wronged him.
   Rating: 5.7/10
   

Comedy

1. Pannaiyarum Padminiyum (2014)
   A heartwarming tale about a landlord, his wife, and their beloved car.
   Rating: 7.9/10
   
2. Saat Uchakkey (2016)
   A comedy about seven small-time crooks embroiled in a series of chaotic escapades.
   Rating: 5.6/10
   
3. Dhol (2007)
   Four friends’ plan to woo a wealthy girl goes awry when they become entangled with criminals.
   Rating: 6.5/10
   
4. Friends (2001)
   Three friends face challenges when their past actions come to light, threatening their bond.
   Rating: 7.9/10
   
5. Phas Gaye Re Obama (2010)
   A recession victim’s attempt to sell family property leads to comedic complications when he’s mistaken for a rich NRI.
   Rating: 7.5/10
   

Action/Thriller

1. Lucia (2013)
   A man’s insomnia leads him to a drug that makes his dreams come true, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
   Rating: 8.3/10
   
2. Race (2008)
   A tale of two brothers whose rivalry turns deadly in a high-stakes battle for love and power.
   Rating: 6.7/10
   
3. Rocky Handsome (2016)
   A reclusive pawn shop owner seeks revenge when gangsters kidnap his young neighbor’s daughter.
   Rating: 6.8/10
   
4. Force 2 (2016)
   An ACP teams up with a RAW agent to uncover a mole within their ranks.
   Rating: 6.2/10
   
5. Marichi (2023)
   A serial killer targeting doctors forces an officer to solve a mystery before more lives are lost.
   Rating: 6.5/10
   

Romance

1. Khal Nayak (1993)
   A prison guard goes undercover to recapture an escaped criminal and restore her lover’s reputation.
   Rating: 7.1/10
   
2. Uppena (2021)
   A young man from a fishing community falls in love with a village head’s daughter, facing violent opposition from her father.
   Rating: 6.5/10
   
3. Helen (2019)
   A young woman goes missing, leading her loved ones on a desperate search while she fights for her life.
   Rating: 7.7/10
   
4. Something Something… Unnakum Ennakum (2006)
   An NRI falls for a girl during a wedding in India but must win over her brother’s approval by working on his farm.
   Rating: 6.9/10