Every student studying in India learns one thing first. That is, India is a country of diversity. Local communities, cultures, and even crops vary from country to country, as does the national language. And just as the country does not have a single national language, India has several thriving film industries spread across multiple states.
When defining Indian cinema, many people tend to focus only on Bollywood. And why wouldn’t you? Bollywood — a term combining Bombay and Hollywood — refers to India’s Hindi film industry. These films are mainly produced in and around Bombay (Mumbai) and form an important part of mainstream Indian cinema.
Recently, movies like this RRR and Baahubali Both films of the Telegu film industry (referred to as ‘Tollywood’) gained popularity and critical acclaim on international platforms. This brought more attention to Tollywood and increased people’s interest in films produced by film industries beyond Bollywood. Tollywood also exhibits a unique fascination with luxury.
But this visceral luxury of the film is not the only film of its kind released in the past two decades. Below is a list of other movies that captivate and almost overwhelm the senses. RRR Do:
Jawaan (2023)
Latest shah rukh khan starring, jawan, took over social media in India and drove large audiences to movie theaters, often multiple times. The story focuses on a man who loses his memory after a traumatic incident and his search for identity.
Om Shanti Om (2007)
Another Shahrukh Khan film, this movie offers an experience that viewers will want to repeat. It is a self-reflective film and contains several easter eggs that hint at important moments in the history of Indian cinema. But it also meditates on reincarnation, revenge, and ultimately love.
Baahubali (2015)
The larger-than-life extravaganza tells the story of a young Shivudu who falls in love with a warrior. This leads him on his journey of self-discovery. Sensually designed, the film follows Shivudu’s adventures and takes the audience through one spectacle after another.
Minnal Murali (2021)
A superhero movie through and through, the film explores the origins of India’s super vigilante, namely Minnal Murali. It features both strong protagonists and antagonists. Therefore, their fights are a sight to behold and a feast for the eyes.
Lagaan (2001)
Starring acclaimed actor Aamir Khan, the film tells the story of a group of villagers protesting against excessive taxes. The film focuses on India, which is still under British rule. Government officials reach an agreement with villagers. If the villagers can beat the villagers at cricket, the villagers will not have to pay taxes. If you lose, you will have to pay double the tax.
Bajirao Mastani (2015)
An epic historical romance of India, Bajirao Mastani It features breathtakingly beautiful visuals. It tells a story of love and loss. Two unfortunate souls, Peshwa Bajirao and warrior princess Mastani, fall in love when the former saves the latter from a crisis. Since Bajirao is already married, the lovers stand up to society and face shame and contempt head on.
Jodha Akbar (2008)
A beautiful Rajput princess marries the young Mughal emperor Akbar for purely political purposes. However, as the two spend more time together, they learn to admire and respect each other’s qualities. The film has beautiful cinematography and the sets are mostly historically accurate. Thus, the audience will see the majesty of the Mughals and Rajput kings throughout the film.
Ponyin Selvan (2022)
Talk about an epic event, to say the least. The film features his OP (Overpowered) character who engages in an epic king-like battle for supremacy. Great powers collide as adversaries plot against the reigning monarch. However, Vallavaraiyan Vandiyadevan, a friend of the king and an intimidating and ruthless warrior, stands in their way.
Devdas (2002)
Another one on this list, and the last one starring Shahrukh Khan, Devdas, which essentially tells a story about love and historical drama. Set in India in the early 1900s, it features period vintage and traditional upper-class luxury. The story of a man who slowly begins to walk down the path to destruction after his first love breaks up with him.
Sholai (1975)
No, this movie wasn’t released in the last 20 or even 30 years. The most important part of the story focuses on the buddy cop friendship between the two main characters. When I think about bromance in Indian film history, I can’t help but think of: Sholai.
An ever-growing film shot in the style of Western movies, Sholai It became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time. It’s a movie full of duels and dacoits. There’s also romance. But the movie always focuses on two male protagonists: a comrade and a comrade.
The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)
Ajay Devgn also appeared in RRR, appears as a freedom fighter named Bhagat Singh who is the main character of this film. Although this film is a more accurate portrayal of the Indian independence movement, RRR, it indulges in some drama. In this film, audiences witness the beginning and creation of a legend, a warrior for life, and a hero beyond that.
Shivaji: The Boss (2007)
Again, perhaps not from the last 20 years, but this Tamil film still reminds us of: RRR in the best possible way. Featuring iconic music and dance numbers, overwhelming, larger-than-life heroes, and comically evil villains. Like Telegu films, mainstream Tamil films are often theatrical and dramatic, and this film thoroughly proves that.
Therefore, those looking for an introduction to Indian cinema may find it a bit overwhelming. To counter that fear, you can start with the latest and most accessible Indian films: important Indian films released in the past two decades. dil chahta hai (2001), Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), Kuchikuchi hota hai (1998), mold, comb, mold, gum (2001), Gunji’s death (2016), Armis (2019), Kaho na pyaar hai (2000), Dilce (1998), Jab We Met (2007), Udaan (2010), vicky donor (2012), lunch box (2013), fanaa (2006), Ghajini (2008), Chakde!India (2007), Koi Mil Gaya (2003), Langella (1995), Sarfarosh (1999), Hera Ferri (2000), developer D (2009).
Ananyaa Bhowmik is a neurodivergent queer pop culture journalist at Wealth of Geeks. She has previously worked with brands such as Sterling Holidays, Myntra, Bajaj, and The Loud Interactive. She is an independent scholar, cat parent, and performance poet. Her research and areas of interest focus on digital she marketing, Canadian Indigenous history, queerness in media, and pop she culture and fandom studies.
