20 Highly Rated Hindi Movies

Bollywood has produced some captivating films over the years. From acclaimed classics to recent blockbusters, there are many Hindi movies that have received high ratings on all fronts. Here is a curated list of 20 highly rated Hindi movies that you should consider adding to your watchlist for an unforgettable viewing experience.

1. Mother India (1957)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Mother India is a timeless classic directed by Mehboob Khan that showcases the indomitable spirit of a mother (Nargis Dutt) who faces numerous hardships to protect her family and uphold her values. It's a powerful and emotionally resonant film that reflects the strength and resilience of Indian women.

2. Mughal-E-Azam (1960)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Mughal-E-Azam is K. Asif’s opulent and grand historical drama set during the Mughal era. It boasts stellar performances by Dilip Kumar as Saleem and Madhubala as Anarkali, captivating music, and lavish sets. The film's timeless love story and unforgettable dialogues make it a cinematic masterpiece.

3. Sholay (1975)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Ramesh Sippy’s Sholay is an iconic Bollywood film known for the most memorable bromance between Jai and Veeru (played by Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra), action-packed sequences, and iconic dialogues. It's a quintessential Indian classic that continues to entertain and resonate with audiences across generations.

4. Anand (1971)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.8/10 on IMDb

Anand is a heartwarming and poignant film directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee that explores the themes of friendship, love, and the celebration of life in the face of mortality. Rajesh Khanna's portrayal of a terminally ill man and Amitabh Bachchan's performance as his doctor are, simply put, outstanding.

5. Pyaasa (1957)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.4/10 on IMDb

Pyaasa is a masterful film that delves into the dark side of society and the struggles of an aspiring poet. Guru Dutt's direction, powerful performances, piercing poetry by Sahir Ludhianvi, and soul-stirring music by S.D. Burman create a cinematic experience that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

6. Guide (1965)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.5/10 on IMDb

Guide is a captivating and introspective film that explores themes of self-discovery, spirituality, and societal expectations directed by Vijay Anand. Dev Anand's performance as a conflicted guide turned spiritual leader is exceptional. The film's narrative complexity and beautiful music make it a must-watch.

7. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001)

95% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan is an epic sports drama that combines cricket with a powerful narrative of freedom and triumph over oppression. The film's ensemble cast (Aamir Khan, Gracy Singh, Rachel Shelley among others), remarkable music by the genius of A. R. Rahman, and the patriotic spirit it evokes make it an extraordinary cinematic experience.

8. Andaz Apna Apna (1994)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Andaz Apna Apna is Rajkumar Santoshia's timeless comedy that has achieved a cult status in Indian cinema. It's a hilarious tale of two slackers (Amar and Prem, played by Aamir Khan and Salman Khan) competing for the affection of a wealthy heiress Raveena (played by Raveena Tandon/Karisma Kapoor). The film's comic timing, eccentric characters, and quotable dialogues make it a laugh riot.

9. Udaan (2010)

100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Udaan is a poignant and coming-of-age drama that depicts the struggles and aspirations of a teenager dealing with a restrictive and abusive father. Vikramaditya Motwane’s realistic portrayal, powerful performances by Ronit Roy and Rajat Barmecha, and sensitive storytelling make it a must-watch for its emotional impact.

10. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)

94% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Gangs of Wasseypur is an intense and gritty crime saga that spans generations and portrays the brutal power struggles in a small town. Anurag Kashyap's direction, strong performances by a stellar ensemble including Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and realistic depiction of violence make it a groundbreaking film.

11. Rang De Basanti (2006)

92% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Rang De Basanti is a thought-provoking film that reflects on contemporary Indian society through the lives of a group of friends. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra addresses issues of corruption, patriotism, and youth activism. The film boasts powerful performances by Aamir Khan, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Kapoor, and Siddharth. A stirring and impactful narrative make it a must-watch.

12. Kahaani (2012)

91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Kahaani is a gripping thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat with its intriguing plot and unexpected twists. Vidya Balan delivers a stellar performance as a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata. Sujoy Ghosh’s atmospheric setting and suspenseful narrative make it a nail biting experience.

13. Talvar (2015)

91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Talvar is a gripping thriller based on the infamous Noida double murder case. Meghna Gulzar presents multiple perspectives and raises questions about the flaws in the Indian legal system. The film's realistic portrayal of the red tape in judicial systems, strong performances by Irrfan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Neeraj Kabi and Tabu along with compelling storytelling make it a must-see for true-crime enthusiasts.

14. Kapoor & Sons (2016)

91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 7.7/10 on IMDb

Shakun Batra’s heartwarming family drama, Kapoor & Sons delves into the dynamics of a dysfunctional yet lovable family. The film explores relationships, secrets, and the complexities of human emotions with sensitivity and authenticity. The ensemble - Ratna Pathak Shah, Rajat Kapoor, Siddharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, Alia Bhatt and Rishi Kapoor carry the film effortlessly with their stunning performances and the film's relatable storytelling make it a hard but compelling watch.

15. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)

90% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Zoya Akhtar’s coming-of-age drama/comedy Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is a beautiful film that celebrates friendship, adventure, and self-discovery. It follows three friends (Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, and Abhay Deol) on a road trip in Spain, where they confront their fears and rediscover the joy of living. The film's picturesque locations, stellar performances, and meaningful dialogue make it as quotable as it is inspiring.

16. Guru (2007)

89% on Rotten Tomatoes, 7.7/10 on IMDb

Guru is a biographical drama directed by Mani Ratnam inspired by the life of industrialist Dhirubhai Ambani. It explores the journey of an ambitious businessman and addresses themes of entrepreneurship, success, and ethics. Abhishek Bachchan's portrayal of the titular character and A.R. Rahman's soul-stirring music makes it a motivating watch.

17. Haider (2014)

88% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Haider is Vishal Bhardwaj's powerful adaptation of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" set against the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict. It's a hard-hitting film that explores themes of revenge, love, and the complexities of human emotions. Shahid Kapoor and Tabu’s riveting performances and the film's atmospheric setting make it a cinematic gem.

18. Piku (2015)

87% on Rotten Tomatoes, 7.6/10 on IMDb

Piku is a charming and slice-of-life film that revolves around the relationship between a father and his independent-minded daughter. Shoojit Sircar skilfully combines humor and emotional depth. Stellar performances by Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Irrfan Khan leave no stone unturned. The film's relatability and heartwarming moments make it a must-watch.

19. Queen (2013)

87% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Vikas Bahl’s Queen is a fresh, delightful and empowering film that follows the journey of a young woman who embarks on a solo honeymoon after her wedding is called off. Kangana Ranaut's exceptional performance, coupled with the film's quirky characters and heartwarming moments, make it a feel-good entertainer.

20. Swades (2004)

87% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.2/10 on IMDb

Swades is a thought-provoking film that explores the theme of social responsibility and the importance of giving back to one's country. Ashutosh Gowariker patiently weaves a tale of love for one’s own country and the importance of giving back. Shah Rukh Khan delivers a powerful performance, and the film's soulful music and heartfelt story leave a lasting impact.

Special Mention: Barfi! (2012)

85% on Rotten Tomatoes, 8.1/10 on IMDb

Barfi! is a heartwarming and visually stunning film directed by Anurag Basu that tells the story of a hearing and speech-impaired man and his relationships with two women (Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Ileana D'Cruz). Ranbir Kapoor's remarkable performance, coupled with the film's charming narrative and enchanting music by Pritam, make it the perfect watch for a wonderful summer afternoon.