Bollywood isn't just about romance and drama; it also excels in high-octane action flicks that can keep you on the edge of your seat. If you're a fan of thrilling stunts, explosive sequences, and gripping narratives, then we have a treat for you. Here's a list of the 10 best Indian action movies that are guaranteed to blow you away. These films not only showcase daring heroics but also feature intricate plots and remarkable performances. From classic hits to modern blockbusters, these best action Bollywood movies are must-sees for any cinephile.
Sholay
IMDb rating: 8.2/10
Released on: August 15, 1975
Director: Ramesh Sippy
Cast: Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan
Synopsis: Set in the small village of Ramgarh, the retired police chief Thakur Baldev Singh recruits two down-on-their-luck criminals to capture the ruthless bandit leader, Gabbar Singh. Sholay is not just a film; it's an experience filled with action, emotion, and iconic characters. It's a pioneer among the best Indian action movies, known for its dramatic flair and memorable dialogues.
Dabangg
IMDb rating: 6.2/10
Released on: September 10, 2010
Director: Abhinav Kashyap
Cast: Salman Khan, Sonakshi Sinha, Arbaaz Khan, Sonu Sood
Synopsis: This film introduces Bollywood’s beloved cop, Chulbul Pandey, a fearless but corrupt police officer with his brand of justice. Dabangg is a blend of fantastic action sequences and comedy, making it stand out among the best Indian action movies.
Ek Tha Tiger
IMDb rating: 5.5/10
Released on: August 15, 2012
Director: Kabir Khan
Cast: Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Ranvir Shorey
Synopsis: An Indian spy, codenamed Tiger, is sent on a mission to retrieve information before it reaches Pakistan. What follows is a thrilling saga of espionage that spans across multiple countries. Known for its sleek action sequences, Ek Tha Tiger is a must-watch for enthusiasts of the best action Bollywood movies.
War
IMDb rating: 6.5/10
Released on: October 2, 2019
Director: Siddharth Anand
Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Tiger Shroff, Vaani Kapoor
Synopsis: An Indian soldier is assigned to eliminate his former mentor, who has gone rogue. War is praised for its world-class action choreography and is a visual spectacle among the best Indian action movies.
Baahubali 2: The Conclusion
IMDb rating: 8.2/10
Released on: April 28, 2017
Director: S.S. Rajamouli
Cast: Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, Anushka Shetty, Sathyaraj
Synopsis: This epic follows the battle between two brothers for the throne of Mahishmati. With its grandeur, epic story, and breathtaking visuals, Baahubali 2 has set the bar high for the best action Bollywood movies.
Singham
IMDb rating: 6.8/10
Released on: July 22, 2011
Director: Rohit Shetty
Cast: Ajay Devgn, Kajal Aggarwal, Prakash Raj
Synopsis: Following the story of an honourable cop battling against corruption, Singham offers not only gripping fight scenes but also a strong moral core. It is a significant film in the best Indian action movies genre for its powerful dialogues and robust performance by Ajay Devgn.
Rowdy Rathore
IMDb rating: 5.8/10
Released on: June 1, 2012
Director: Prabhu Deva
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha
Synopsis: A small-time thief transforms into a fierce cop to avenge the wrongs done to his loved ones. Rowdy Rathore is a delight for fans of the best action Bollywood movies, known for its catchy music and vibrant performances.
Bang Bang
IMDb rating: 5.5/10
Released on: October 2, 2014
Director: Siddharth Anand
Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Katrina Kaif
Synopsis: A young bank receptionist gets caught up in the world of a mysterious and attractive stranger whose enemies have a global reach. Bang Bang is stylish, fun, and filled with adrenaline-pumping action, making it a standout in the realm of the best action Bollywood movies.
Raees
IMDb rating: 6.8/10
Released on: January 25, 2017
Director: Rahul Dholakia
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Mahira Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Synopsis: Set in the 1980s, Raees tells the story of a clever bootlegger who finds himself challenged by a tough policeman. The movie combines action, political intrigue, and drama, securing its place as one of the best Indian action movies.
Ghajini
IMDb rating: 7.3/10
Released on: December 25, 2008
Director: A.R. Murugadoss
Cast: Aamir Khan, Asin, Jiah Khan, Pradeep Rawat
Synopsis: A mix of revenge, romance, and psychological thriller, Ghajini follows the story of a businessman suffering from short-term memory loss who uses notes, tattoos, and photographs to hunt down the man who killed his lover. This film is often cited as one of the best action Bollywood movies for its innovative narrative and Aamir Khan's transformative performance.
These best action Bollywood movies not only showcase thrilling narratives and stunning choreography but also reflect the depth and diversity of Indian cinema. Whether you're in the mood for romantic action or a gritty thriller, this list has something for every action aficionado. So, grab your popcorn and prepare to be entertained by some of the most exhilarating films Bollywood has to offer.