W2TCH

111 Essential Art Films from Indian Cinema

111 titles

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 1UdaanMovie · 2010 · 138m · DramaA young man returns to his industrial hometown and faces a difficult choice: pursue his personal aspirations or accept his father's expectations for him.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.2
  2. 2AakroshMovie · 1980 · 144m · DramaThis compelling legal drama explores the injustices faced by India's scheduled tribes in the 1980s. A determined lawyer takes on the defense of a tribal man accused of his wife's murder. Investigating the case, he discovers the harsh realities of life and systemic oppression experienced by these marginalized communities. The courtroom battle profoundly changes the lawyer's understanding of the complex social and political issues surrounding scheduled tribes. The film powerfully examines how inequality and prejudice can threaten individual freedoms.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.2
  3. 3Kaagaz Ke PhoolMovie · 1959 · 142m · Drama, RomanceSuresh Sinha was a successful film director, but his life revolved around his close relationship with an aspiring actress. This story uses flashbacks to explore ambition, art, and relationships within the glamorous film world. We see Sinha balancing his career with his deep emotional connection to the actress, navigating the complexities of mentoring her amidst the industry's glamour, envy, and ambition.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.8
  4. 4ShwaasMovie · 2004 · 107mAn aging man battling cancer dedicates himself to sharing the beauty and importance of life with his grandson. The story emphasizes the strength found in maintaining a positive perspective, even when facing difficult circumstances.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.2
  5. 5MaqboolMovie · 2003 · 132m · Crime, DramaA modern-day adaptation of Shakespeare's Macbeth. Set in Mumbai's criminal underworld, the story follows two corrupt police officers who act as the witches. Their manipulations lead one officer to seize power from Abbaji, the head of a powerful crime family, mirroring the classic tragedy.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.0
  6. 6NayakanMovie · 1987 · 156m · Drama, CrimeThis intense drama follows Velu Naicker, whose life changes forever when he witnesses the murder of his father by dangerous criminals. Driven by grief and a desire for revenge, Velu targets the corrupt police officer he believes orchestrated the crime. In a desperate act, he kills the officer and escapes to Mumbai seeking a fresh start. However, Mumbai's criminal underworld pulls Velu into a world of dangerous alliances and betrayals. The promise of power and wealth leads him deeper into a life of crime, transforming him into a feared gangster. As Velu struggles with the consequences of his actions, the distinction between right and wrong becomes increasingly unclear. The film explores the destructive nature of vengeance, its impact on the soul, and delves into themes of power, corruption, and the complexities of human nature.IMDb 8.6TMDB 7.8
  7. 7BiswaprakashMovie · 1999 · 148mWhile searching for meaning in life, Biswaparakash confronts a shifting world increasingly driven by consumerism. This new environment clashes with his deeply held beliefs, values, and traditional way of life.IMDb 6.9
  8. 8Past, Present, and FutureMovie · 1985 · 137mIn 1961 Goa, the film chronicles the trajectory of a wealthy and prominent Goan family. The story unfolds through the recollections of a close friend, presented in the past tense.IMDb 7.0TMDB 8.8
  9. 9Days and Nights in the ForestMovie · 1970 · 115m · Drama, ComedyFour friends from Calcutta take a trip to a remote village in Bihar, staying in a charming bungalow. In this unfamiliar place, their individual personalities are tested as everyday events reveal hidden aspects of themselves and how they respond to their surroundings. This story explores human nature and the importance of friendship as the friends discover more about themselves and each other during their unexpected time together in this peaceful setting.IMDb 8.0TMDB 6.9
  10. 10AnaahatMovie · 2003 · 90mA woman challenges societal expectations by claiming her right to experience sexual pleasure.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.0
  11. 11ElippathayamMovie · 1982 · 115mIn rural Kerala, Unni, the final male descendant of a declining aristocratic family, struggles to adapt to modern times. As society shifts, he increasingly isolates himself, consumed by suspicion and fear.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1
  12. 12The Golden ThreadMovie · 1965 · 123m · DramaIn Calcutta, Ishwar, an honest man living with East Bengali refugees in a shanty town, takes a job at an iron foundry seeking financial stability. This choice creates a moral conflict when an old friend offers a more secure path, straining his relationships within the community he's grown to care for. Ishwar brings his sister Sita and Abhiram, an orphaned boy he's raised, with him. They face difficulties adapting to city life. When Ishwar is accused of abandoning his community and betraying their cause, he must grapple with loyalty, belonging, and his own growth against the backdrop of societal pressures and displacement. The film explores how personal decisions impact others, illustrating that difficult choices can sometimes lead to a better future, despite potential consequences and self-doubt.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.4
  13. 13VanaprasthamMovie · 1999 · 119mKathakali dancer Kunhikuttan falls for Subhadra, a woman from a higher caste. She is captivated by his performances, drawn to the roles he embodies, rather than to him as a person.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9
  14. 14My OwnMovie · 1994 · 141mThis gentle Indian drama centers on a widow grappling with loss. Ramayyar was the heart of Ananpoorna's world, and his death has left her life feeling empty. The film interweaves her recollections with her current struggles. Before he passed, they ran a small cafe in their Kerala hometown, a quiet village accessible only by trains heading to Trivandrum. After the funeral, Ananpoorna is left with no means to support her teenage children as her cafe is sold and destroyed to cover debts. She then moves in with her brother-in-law. Her son, Kannan, faces a difficult choice: follow the stationmaster's advice and join the military, or join a friend traveling to the Middle-East.IMDb 7.0TMDB 5.8
  15. 15The Golden BirdMovie · 2011 · 55mTwo travelers seek a flying machine they hope will offer a final escape from reincarnation. As they journey, they document their memories, dreams, and anxieties using a sound recorder and a notebook.IMDb 6.6TMDB 5.0
  16. 16Agraharathil KazhutaiMovie · 1977 · 90mA donkey wanders into a village where the Brahmin caste holds power.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4
  17. 17Hazaaron Khwaishein AisiMovie · 2003 · 120mDuring the 1970s Indian Emergency, a time of significant social and political upheaval, the film follows the lives of three young people.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.2
  18. 18VijetaMovie · 1982 · 151m"Vijeta (The Victor)" follows Angad (Kunal Kapoor), a young man navigating the complexities of adolescence while caught in his parents' marital struggles. As he grapples with finding his path, Angad decides to pursue a career as a fighter pilot with the Indian Air Force. The film chronicles his journey to become a victor – both in terms of self-discovery and overcoming external challenges.IMDb 7.7TMDB 9.8
  19. 19The StrangerMovie · 1991 · 114m · DramaThis drama follows a wealthy Indian family whose predictable life is shaken by the arrival of a man who says he's a long-lost uncle. They are wary at first, but he slowly wins them over with stories from his travels. His tales challenge their traditional values and open their eyes to new possibilities. The family begins to question their beliefs about love, family, and the world. The uncle’s visit becomes a touching story about how sharing experiences can connect people, mend old hurts, and expand our understanding of life.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.6
  20. 20The Music RoomMovie · 1958 · 100m · Drama, MusicThis drama tells the story of an older landowner whose passion for music increasingly dominates his life and leads to the decline of his successful estate. As his property falls into disrepair, he becomes consumed with creating a musical space to match that of his younger, wealthier neighbor. The film examines ambition and the repercussions of prioritizing personal desires over practical needs, portraying a man whose obsession with music overshadows his duties as a landowner. His once-stable life unravels as his pursuit takes a toll on his relationships and finances. The film uses striking visuals to contrast the extravagance of both musical worlds, exploring the complexities of human desire and the cost of unchecked ambition. The story raises questions about whether the protagonist's passion was worth sacrificing his legacy, or if he might have found greater happiness in a simpler life.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5
  21. 21GanduMovie · 2010 · 85mFollowing a theft from his mother's lover, nihilistic rapper Gandu descends into a drug-fueled rampage alongside a rickshaw puller.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.2
  22. 22The Voyage BeyondMovie · 1987 · 130mA father persuades his daughter to marry a terminally ill man, hoping she will inherit his fortune.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.6
  23. 23It's a Long Way to the SeaMovie · 1995 · 106mPowal is a boatman in the village of Nemuguri, located on the Dihing River. Because there's no bridge there, his job is secure, a tradition passed down through his family for three generations. His life remains peaceful until he starts hearing increasing rumors about a new bridge being constructed across the river.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.0
  24. 24GenesisMovie · 1986 · 105mThe film follows the simple story of a civilization's decline, centered on four people: a farmer (Naseeruddin Shah), a weaver (Om Puri), a trader (M.K. Raina), and a woman (Shabana Azmi). Initially, villagers are offered sustenance by local lords in exchange for labor, but the farmer and weaver decline. The farmer provides food, while the weaver creates textiles for the trader to exchange. A woman arrives, seeking refuge, and the two men take her in. She performs domestic duties and gradually becomes a point of conflict. The trader observes these events from a distance.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.7
  25. 25Bagh BahadurMovie · 1989 · 91mEach year, Ghunuram leaves his job to rehearse and perform in a folk dance in his village, where he's known for his captivating Tiger Dance. This year holds extra significance: he plans to propose to the daughter of a fellow dancer. However, a traveling circus arrives with a newly captured leopard, and the woman Ghunuram hopes to marry becomes infatuated with a circus performer. In a final, poignant act, Ghunuram prepares for a performance pitting the tiger against the leopard. Winner of the National Film Award for Best Picture.IMDb 7.9
  26. 26Black FridayMovie · 2004 · 162m · Crime, DramaIn 1993, bombings devastate Mumbai, deeply dividing the city's people. As the culprits remain hidden, authorities initiate an extensive search to identify those responsible for the attacks.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.5
  27. 27Salaam Bombay!Movie · 1988 · 113m · Crime, DramaKrishna, an 11-year-old boy in Bombay, is constantly bullied by his older brother and dreams of motorbikes. Seeking revenge, he destroys his brother’s prized possession and is sent to work off the debt by earning money for a replacement. He joins a traveling circus but instead finds himself facing the harsh realities of Bombay's slums. While trying to repay his family, Krishna befriends Chillum, a drug dealer struggling with his own problems, and Sola Saal, a young girl forced into prostitution. Through these relationships, the film examines themes of lost innocence, survival, and the connections people make when living on the margins of society. Against the backdrop of Bombay's tough streets, Krishna’s story is a moving look at how people persevere through hardship.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3
  28. 28KaalpurushMovie · 2005 · 117mA man grapples with the lingering impact of his influential father.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
  29. 29The Indian Shylock: The Original Silent VersionMovie · 1925This social drama follows Shantaram, a peasant who is dispossessed of his land by a ruthless moneylender using fraudulent documents. He migrates to the city and finds work in a mill. Drawing from realist storytelling, the film contrasts a peaceful rural existence – tragically destroyed by the greedy moneylender – with the difficult realities of urban life. The image of a hut with a howling dog is widely considered a defining moment in Indian cinema.IMDb 9.0
  30. 30ChakraMovie · 1981 · 135mAmma (Smita Patil) experiences unimaginable trauma when she is raped and then forced to flee her home with her husband and child after he kills the attacker. Their situation worsens in the city when her husband is killed by smugglers, leaving Amma alone with her son. She struggles to teach her son right from wrong amidst the pervasive immorality of their surroundings. A questionable man offers some assistance, but the future appears bleak for both of them.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.1
  31. 31Two Acres of LandMovie · 1953 · 125mTo save their family's ancestral land from a powerful corporation, a poor man and his young son journey to Calcutta in search of employment. They hope to earn enough money to prevent the land from being taken.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.9
  32. 32Death of a DoctorMovie · 1990 · 133mDr. Dipankar Roy spends years researching a leprosy vaccine, sacrificing his personal life for the work. When the discovery is announced publicly, the junior doctor is met with international acclaim. However, this recognition is quickly overshadowed by the jealousy and abuse of power from his senior colleagues, who seek to undermine him.IMDb 8.3TMDB 5.5
  33. 33AnantaramMovie · 1987 · 125mA young man tells two different stories about his life, subtly altering events and details within each narrative as he descends into instability.IMDb 7.9TMDB 8.3
  34. 34Mirch MasalaMovie · 1987 · 121mSet in rural British India during the early 1940s, the story follows a woman who chooses to challenge the village's tyrannical subedar. She finds support from the guards at the local spice factory, and together they inspire other women to stand up against the widespread oppression.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8
  35. 35The NamesakeMovie · 2006 · 122m · DramaThe Ganguli family navigates the complexities of adapting to American life after relocating from Calcutta. Parents Ashoke and Ashima are dedicated to providing their children with new opportunities, while their son Gogol attempts to reconcile his Indian roots with his American identity. He seeks to define himself while staying connected to his family's traditions.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.7
  36. 36Mohan Joshi Hazir Ho!Movie · 1984 · 130mMohan Joshi and his wife sue their landlord, claiming the apartment building is unsafe. They hire two lawyers to represent them, but the lengthy court case allows the lawyers to exploit the couple financially, growing wealthy while the case drags on for years. Back in their community, the elderly couple faces ridicule for challenging the landlord, yet they persist with their fight.IMDb 7.5
  37. 37PyaasaMovie · 1957 · 146m · Drama, RomanceVijay, a poor poet yearning for love and recognition, has his life changed by two women who enter his world. As his poetry gains attention and he finds love, Vijay discovers success brings unexpected difficulties. He struggles with relationships and the pressures of fame, forced to re-evaluate his past decisions. His simple beliefs are challenged by life's complexities. The film examines love, ambition, sacrifice, and the cost of pursuing one's dreams. Vijay questions whether true happiness comes from achieving success or appreciating life’s simpler moments. The story explores human emotions and the unpredictable nature of love, offering a compelling and insightful experience.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.2
  38. 38Jait Re JaitMovie · 1977 · 116mThis is the story of a Nagya, a drummer, who deeply desires to be considered a "pure one." He encounters Chindhi, a woman who has left her husband because she views him as incapable.IMDb 8.3TMDB 5.5
  39. 39GuideMovie · 1965 · 183m · Romance, DramaA former tour guide is mistaken for a wise man by the residents of a small village. As he accepts their trust, he begins a journey of self-reflection, revisiting his past and a lost love to find genuine guidance for the villagers. Through these experiences, he confronts the responsibility of his new role while finding comfort in the community's kindness. This moving story explores spirituality, personal change, and the strength of human connection as an unexpected mentor helps a village.IMDb 8.4TMDB 6.6
  40. 40The RuinsMovie · 1984 · 106mSubhash, a city photographer, travels to a village to photograph ancient temples and ruins, drawn to their history. He meets Jamini, a young woman who was previously hurt by a visitor from the city. The film explores whether Jamini will allow past heartbreak to define her future, or if she can find a path forward amidst the ruins.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.3
  41. 41Garm HavaMovie · 1973 · 146mFollowing the Partition of India, a Muslim businessman and his family fight to secure their rights in a nation that was once their home.IMDb 8.0TMDB 6.6
  42. 42The Cloud-Capped StarMovie · 1960 · 127m · DramaThis is the story of a compassionate young woman who grew up in a refugee family after leaving East Pakistan. Raised in a comfortable home, she always puts her family first. But her constant selflessness is often unrewarded, leading her to wonder if it's truly helping those she cares about. The film explores sacrifice, family relationships, and finding happiness despite hardship.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3
  43. 43Ek Ruka Hua FaislaMovie · 1986 · 127mTwelve men on a jury are locked in a room, struggling to reach a verdict in a murder trial. The defendant is accused of killing his father. Eleven of the jurors are certain of his guilt and try to persuade the last one to agree. Can they sway him to a unanimous decision? This is an Indian adaptation of 12 Angry Men.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9
  44. 44The Home and the WorldMovie · 1985 · 140mThe film begins with a woman reflecting on the experiences that shaped her worldview. Years earlier, her husband, an educated landowner, defied custom by educating her and allowing her to leave the confines of traditional married life, much to the disapproval of her family. When he introduces a college friend, a prominent figure in the economic rebellion against the British, she becomes drawn to his political movement, despite her husband's cautions. Their connection deepens beyond friendship, and the complex political struggles – dividing the wealthy and the poor, Hindus and Muslims – prove far more nuanced than she initially understood.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3
  45. 45Miss LovelyMovie · 2014 · 113mMiss Lovely is a Hindi film set in the gritty underbelly of Bombay's low-budget film scene. It tells the heartbreaking story of two brothers who make exploitative horror movies in the mid-1980s.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.2
  46. 46Maya DarpanMovie · 1972 · 107mTaran lives with her father in a small town changing with the rise of industry. Their relationship is difficult, as her father grows increasingly resentful over his inability to find Taran a suitable husband. She finds comfort in her connection with a local engineer.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4
  47. 47In Search of FamineMovie · 1981 · 128mA young, idealistic director travels to a village to film a movie about the Great Bengal Famine. He aims to expose the ongoing hardships faced by people in rural India through his project.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9
  48. 48The Seventh Horse of the SunMovie · 1992 · 130mThe film centers on a man reminiscing about his friend, Manek Mulla, a gifted storyteller. One afternoon, Manek weaves a captivating tale of love, using multiple perspectives and exploring the story's connection to society. As Manek tells his story, the line between truth and fiction begins to blur.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4
  49. 49IjaazatMovie · 1987 · 137mA divorced couple unexpectedly cross paths at a train station waiting room, prompting them to confront and re-examine their shared history.IMDb 8.3TMDB 6.0
  50. 50MathilukalMovie · 1990 · 120mMathilukal ("Walls") is a film based on a short story by the acclaimed Malayalam author Vaikom Muhammad Basheer. The story is personal, set in India during the 1940s as Basheer was imprisoned in Trivandrum Central Jail for his involvement in the independence movement. The film begins with Basheer in a police lock-up, comfortable among fellow minor offenders. He has been held there for over a year without a trial.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.6
  51. 51ArohanMovie · 1983 · 144mHari Mondal (Om Puri) is a poor farmer living in the remote Bengal village of Giripur with his wife, two sons, brother, his widowed aunt Kalidashi (Gita Sen), and her daughter Panchi. The film begins in the mid-1960s, as the Naxalbari uprising spreads across Bengal. Young people advocating communism and a socialist republic are uniting the oppressed farmers.IMDb 7.5
  52. 52AwaaraMovie · 1951 · 168m · Drama, Music, RomanceThis drama follows a small-time thief whose life changes when he's accused of trying to kill a well-known lawyer. The trial brings together a group of people whose lives are unexpectedly linked. Flashbacks reveal their histories and how past decisions have brought them to this point. The film examines connection, the impact of choices, and the importance of understanding others through the story of crime, justice, and the possibility of redemption.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2
  53. 53Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata HaiMovie · 1981 · 110m"Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyun Ata Hai" explores the lives of the Pinto family and those around them. Albert, the central figure, seems perpetually angry at everyone. His brother Dominic prefers unemployment to low-wage work, his sister Joan patiently works in a sari shop, and his girlfriend Stella feels undervalued. The film also examines his father, his colleagues, clients, and Stella's family. It’s a social commentary on middle-class life in Bombay during the late 1970s, highlighting the tensions caused by severely underpaid laborers.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.0
  54. 54Kanchana SitaMovie · 1978 · 76mThis film adapts a tale from the Ramayana's Uttara Kanda, focusing on Rama's decision to send his wife, Sita, into the forest to appease his people. Although Sita is never physically present, her essence is powerfully felt through the atmosphere of the jungle and its natural world. Retold from a feminist viewpoint, the film explores the tragedy of power and the sacrifices required by duty, specifically the painful cost of abandoning a virtuous wife.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.3
  55. 55Apur SansarMovie · 1959 · 105m · DramaA recently graduated and unemployed young man named Apu, who wants to be a writer, feels lost. An old friend suggests he go to a village wedding. The trip immerses Apu in a lively, traditional celebration, prompting him to consider his own ambitions. Exploring the rural setting, he encounters many stories and people that inspire his writing. The film shows the wedding's beauty and Apu’s personal development as he tries to find his path between city and village life.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.1
  56. 56AparajitoMovie · 1956 · 110m · DramaApu and his family relocate from the countryside to the vibrant city of Benares. The film follows Apu's journey from childhood to adolescence, including his studies in Kolkata. We see his intellectual and moral development, alongside the evolving dynamics of his relationship with his mother.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9
  57. 57PiraviMovie · 1989 · 110mWhen his son doesn't come home for his daughter's engagement, elderly Raghava Chakyar waits for him at the bus stop every day. He discovers his son, Raghu, has been arrested by the police on political charges and begins investigating the situation.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.6
  58. 58Do Ankhen Barah HaathMovie · 1957 · 143mA young, forward-thinking prison warden gains approval to relocate six hardened murderers to a run-down farm in the countryside. The plan is for them to rehabilitate themselves and the property through manual labor and compassionate mentorship.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.4
  59. 59ManthanMovie · 1976 · 134mVeterinarian Dr. Rao travels to a village with the goal of establishing a cooperative dairy to improve the lives of the local people. The story unfolds during India's White Revolution (Operation Flood), which began in 1970. The entire project was funded by a remarkable grassroots effort, with 500,000 farmers contributing just two rupees each.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9
  60. 60AandhiMovie · 1975 · 133mJ.K. works as a hotel manager in a beautiful part of India. He helps Aarti, the daughter of a politician, when she's intoxicated, and prefers to keep the incident private. After she recovers, they fall in love, marry in a simple ceremony, and have a daughter. However, disagreements eventually lead them to separate. Years later, J.K. and Aarti meet again. They are both still drawn to each other, but Aarti worries about the negative public image of being a divorced woman.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.1
  61. 61AjantrikMovie · 1958 · 102mBimal is a taxi driver in a quiet, rural town. He lives by himself, and his taxi – a well-worn 1920s Chevrolet he calls Jagaddal – is his only friend. Despite its age and many repairs, Bimal cherishes Jagaddal above all else.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.8
  62. 62A Grave-keeper's TaleMovie · 2006 · 98mMaati Maay is a complex film that tells multiple interconnected stories within a traditional community, examining various relationships between people.IMDb 7.9
  63. 63SwayamvaramMovie · 1972 · 131mAgainst their families' wishes, Vishwam and Sita run away and marry. Initially enjoying a blissful life together as an unemployed couple, they soon face mounting difficulties due to their lack of financial resources.IMDb 7.1TMDB 5.9
  64. 64The Big CityMovie · 1963 · 136m · DramaSet in the vibrant city of Calcutta, the film follows a traditional housewife who takes a job as a salesperson. This simple choice sets off a chain of events that slowly challenges the strict rules of her life, questioning what society expects of her and her family. As she gains independence and pursues her career, the family experiences growing tensions as everyone adjusts to changing roles and relationships. The story explores themes of womanhood, social standing, and family bonds, showing how one person's journey can impact everyone around them. The film was preserved by the Academy Film Archive and The Film Foundation in 1996, highlighting its enduring message about personal growth and strength in the face of societal pressures.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.8
  65. 65JunoonMovie · 1978 · 141mDuring the 1857 Indian Rebellion, a determined Indian Nawab wants to marry a young Anglo-Indian woman. However, the woman's strong-willed mother opposes the union.IMDb 7.5TMDB 5.3
  66. 66Bhavni BhavaiMovie · 1981 · 135mIn a drought-stricken Indian city, Maharaja Dhiraj Chandrasen, a ruler with two wives and no heir, initiates numerous rituals to implore the Rain Gods for relief.IMDb 7.1TMDB 4.3
  67. 67AparoopaMovie · 1982 · 100mIn the tea country of Assam, India, a young woman abandons her education to marry a wealthy man her father owes money to. Her routine life is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of an old friend from university.IMDb 6.9
  68. 68Jaane Bhi Do YaaroMovie · 1983 · 132mTwo eccentric individuals start a photography studio. A sudden collaboration with a gossip magazine unexpectedly pulls them into a world of deceit, crime, and comical mishaps.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.1
  69. 69KoshishMovie · 1972 · 125mThis romantic drama follows the 20-year relationship between Hari and Aarti, a deaf-mute couple determined to embrace life fully despite the challenges they face.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.3
  70. 70ArthMovie · 1982 · 138mMahesh Bhatt wrote this semi-autobiographical film about his affair with actress Parveen Babi.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.7
  71. 71Saath SaathMovie · 1982 · 145mAvinash (Farookh Shekh) is a principled, humble man striving to make his way in the world. He believes in working hard and learning from experience, dedicated to his studies and dreaming of a better society built on honesty. He aims to bring about change through truth and simplicity. The film features beautiful Gazals by Jagjit Singh and Chitra Singh.IMDb 7.4TMDB 8.0
  72. 72SparshMovie · 1980 · 145m · Drama, RomanceThe film follows a visually impaired man who runs a school for blind children. It explores the difficulties he faces in his work. A recent widow joins the school as a volunteer, also dealing with personal grief. As they work together, they form an unexpected bond, finding comfort and connection in their shared experiences. The film is about resilience, hope, and human connection, offering a moving and uplifting story.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.3
  73. 73Ardh SatyaMovie · 1983 · 123mA fresh police officer quickly finds himself navigating a world of corruption, unexpected romance, and violent realities on the job.IMDb 8.1TMDB 6.8
  74. 74BandiniMovie · 1963 · 157mIn 1930s British-ruled Bengal, a prison doctor develops feelings for a woman convicted of murder who has ties to the independence movement.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.0
  75. 75GamanMovie · 1978 · 119mTwo working-class friends in Bombay work hard to make their lives better, but face ongoing challenges.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.8
  76. 76Don't Cry for Salim the LameMovie · 1989 · 111mSalim Pasha, who has a physical disability, engages in criminal activities such as extortion and robbery alongside his friends Peera and Abdul. Salim is portrayed as a carefree individual.IMDb 7.7TMDB 5.7
  77. 77Pather PanchaliMovie · 1955 · 125m · Drama, HistoryHarihar Ray, a devoted but poor priest from a small village in Bengal, dreams of a better future for himself and his family. He leaves his familiar home to find work and financial security for them. This moving story explores perseverance, ambition, and the power of hope in the face of hardship. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in partnership with The Film Foundation in 1996, the film provides a genuine and compelling look at one man's quest for a better life from humble origins.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.8
  78. 7827 DownMovie · 1974 · 118mSanjay dreams of being an artist, but his father pushes him into a job as a train conductor. Unfulfilled, he meets and falls in love with Shalini, only to face pressure for an arranged marriage when his father discovers their relationship. Trapped by his circumstances, Sanjay seeks solace in alcohol and prostitutes, until he finds an opportunity to escape with Shalini and begin a new life together.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3
  79. 79The Chess PlayersMovie · 1977 · 129m · DramaIn 1856, the prosperous Indian kingdom of Awadh, ruled by Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, becomes the target of the British Empire. General Outram is sent to facilitate its annexation, creating intense pressure on the kingdom. But the Nawab prioritizes pleasure and religious observances over the growing crisis. His court, including nobles Mir and Mirza, remains detached, preoccupied with games while ignoring their responsibilities amidst a volatile political climate. This film adapts Munshi Premchand's short story of the same name, depicting a pivotal moment when traditional kingdoms face the rise of colonial power. The Academy Film Archive and The Film Foundation preserved this work in 2010 to ensure its accessibility for modern audiences.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0
  80. 80The CitizenMovie · 1977 · 112mRamu and Uma, the eldest son and daughter respectively of migrant families, dream of a happy life together. However, economic hardship in post-partition Calcutta presents them with numerous obstacles on their path.IMDb 7.7TMDB 8.0
  81. 81DharaviMovie · 1991 · 111mThis film chronicles a determined taxi driver's struggle to escape poverty. He hatches plans and invests his savings in risky ventures that ultimately fail. This puts him in the sights of a corrupt politician and dangerous local figures, but he continues to pursue his aspirations.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.3
  82. 82DamulMovie · 1985 · 106mDamul (Bonded Until Death) portrays the harsh realities of bonded labor through the story of a laborer forced into theft by his landlord, leaving him with no other option.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.3
  83. 83Anhey Ghorhey Da DaanMovie · 2011 · 112mIn a rural Punjab village, a family struggles with unfair social and economic conditions. Their lives are disrupted when a conflict erupts during a lunar eclipse.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.8
  84. 84Report to MotherMovie · 1986 · 115mPurushan, traveling to Delhi, becomes deeply affected by the story of a young drummer who committed suicide. He gathers a group of people to accompany him, intending to share the news with the drummer's mother.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  85. 85Om Dar-B-DarMovie · 1988 · 101mOm, a teenage boy in an Indian village, has one remarkable talent: he can hold his breath for an exceptionally long time. His father, Babuji, gave up his government job to pursue astrology. Drawn to magic and religion, Om journeys to a fantastical city and buys a house near a frog pond.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8
  86. 86An Enemy of the PeopleMovie · 1990 · 99mDr. Ashoke Gupta, an idealistic physician practicing in a town near Calcutta, uncovers that the water from a well-visited temple is contaminating the local water supply, causing widespread typhoid and hepatitis. Determined to prevent further illness, he risks his professional standing by attempting to expose the polluted source. However, a local construction group works to discredit him through various means.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2
  87. 87RunawayMovie · 1958 · 124mEight-year-old Kanchan is a mischievous child who constantly gets into trouble at home. He sees his father as a cruel and oppressive figure who controls his mother. In his dreams, he imagines the city as a wondrous place, like El Dorado, but his reality is very different when he finally arrives there.IMDb 7.9TMDB 6.3
  88. 88Bandit QueenMovie · 1994 · 119m · Action, Crime, DramaThe film tells the story of Phoolan Devi, who grew up in rural India under strict patriarchal traditions. At just 11, she is forced into marriage and repeatedly raped and abused by those she trusted. This leads her to become the Bandit Queen, a warrior who steals from the wealthy to help the poor, similar to Robin Hood. This powerful biographical film shows Phoolan Devi's strength and determination despite facing oppressive societal norms. It also critiques India's patriarchal system and reveals the violence that traps many women in abuse and desperation. The film offers a moving look at her transformation from victim to vigilante, a story that is both captivating and makes you think.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.6
  89. 89MrigayaaMovie · 1977 · 119mIn 1920s India, a British administrator with a passion for hunting forms an unexpected bond with a skilled archer from a local village. The film explores the complex relationship between British colonizers and the Indian villagers, who have long suffered exploitation at the hands of local landowners. This friendship unfolds against the backdrop of growing Indian resistance to British rule.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.0
  90. 90Calcutta 71Movie · 1972 · 116mThe ghost of a young man, executed at 20, journeys through different periods, connecting four stories of people fighting to survive in India. It's a stark look at poverty, natural disasters, and political turmoil. A wealthy family's home is overwhelmed by monsoon rains, while another family's values are tested by famine. Young boys resort to smuggling rice, and politicians offer sympathy while enjoying privileged lives.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.8
  91. 91Mouna RaagamMovie · 1986 · 146mPressured by her family, college student Divya is compelled to marry Chandrakumar. Instead of accepting her fate, she requests a divorce as her wedding gift, revealing details about her past.IMDb 8.4TMDB 7.8
  92. 92CharulataMovie · 1964 · 117mSet in 1870s India, Charulata is a woman feeling isolated from her husband, Bhupati, a busy journalist. Bhupati notices his wife's unhappiness and asks his cousin, Amal, to visit and encourage her artistic side. Amal, a young poet, and Charulata develop a close connection through their shared passion for art.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.5
  93. 93Ship of TheseusMovie · 2012 · 143m · DramaThis film explores three interconnected narratives centered on individuals grappling with the ethical and moral dilemmas presented by advancements in medicine.IMDb 8.0TMDB 6.9
  94. 9436 Chowringhee LaneMovie · 1981 · 122mFollowing her niece's wedding, Violet Stoneham, an Anglo-Indian schoolteacher, finds herself isolated in her small apartment at 36 Chowringhee Lane in Calcutta. She warmly receives visits from a former student and his partner.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1
  95. 95A Soft Note on a Sharp ScaleMovie · 1961 · 124mGhatak uses the story of a dedicated group of IPTA workers to explore themes of partition, idealism, corruption, the connection between art and life, the potential of art, and class struggle.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.9
  96. 96UtsavMovie · 1984 · 145mVasantasena, a dancer at King Palaka's court, seeks refuge in Charudatta's home to escape unwanted advances from the king's brother-in-law. There, she develops feelings for Charudatta, who is already married and without wealth.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.4
  97. 97MasoomMovie · 1983 · 138mA man's happy family life is shattered when he learns about a young son he fathered years ago as a result of an affair.IMDb 8.3TMDB 6.4
  98. 98A Climate for CrimeMovie · 2008 · 115mThe film unfolds through four separate stories, linked only by a central theme of crime. As the narrative progresses, the crimes become increasingly intricate.IMDb 6.8
  99. 99Adi ShankaracharyaMovie · 1983 · 130mThis is the first and only Indian film made entirely in Sanskrit. It chronicles the life of Sankara, the philosopher who founded the Advaita school of non-dualistic thought.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.4
  100. 100The LunchboxMovie · 2013 · 104m · Drama, RomanceA mix-up in Mumbai's reliable lunch delivery service brings a young woman and an older man together. They begin exchanging notes within his lunchbox, creating a shared fantasy world. Slowly, this imaginative space starts to blur the lines between their real lives.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4