Lights, camera, crores! The dazzling world of Indian cinema is almost like a money machine, where larger-than-life heroes, captivating stories, and masala entertainment reign supreme. Today, we're celebrating the movies that have raked in the big bucks, the titans of the box office, the crowd-pleasers that etched their names in the hallowed Hall of Bollywood Fame. Buckle up, cinephiles, as we unravel the secrets behind the highest-grossing Indian films of all time!
1. Dangal (2016)
Box Office Turnover: ₹2,023.81 crore
More than just a sports drama, Dangal is a heart-wrenching tale of a father's unwavering belief in his daughters. Based on the real-life icon Mahavir Singh Phogat, Aamir Khan shines as a father who trains his two daughters to become world-class wrestlers. He defies societal expectations and proves that grit, not gender, determines destiny. This highest-grossing Indian movie struck a chord with Indian audiences, resonating with their aspirations for gender equality and defying the odds no matter what.
2. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017)
Box Office Turnover: ₹1,810.595 crore
A visual spectacle unlike any other, Baahubali 2 wasn’t just a movie; it was the conclusion of an epic saga steeped in mythology, war, and fraternal love. The grandeur of its storytelling, coupled with stunning visuals and Prabhas's captivating performance as the mythical warrior Shivudu, left audiences in awe. This larger-than-life high-grossing Indian movie tapped into India's rich cultural heritage and love for mythological tales, making it a true box office phenomenon.
3. RRR (2022)
Box Office Turnover: ₹1,387.26 crore
Friendship forged in fire, rebellion ignited by passion – RRR was a cinematic explosion that redefined historical fiction. N.T. Rama Rao Jr. and Ram Charan as real-life freedom fighters Komaram Bheem and Alluri Sitarama Raju, defying the British Raj with their electrifying bromance, became instant worldwide icons. The high-grossing Indian movie's high-octane action sequences, emotional core, and celebration of Indian valour resonated deeply with the audience, making it a rising, roaring, revolting success!
4. KGF Chapter 2 (2022)
Box Office Turnover: ₹1,200-1,250 crore
From the gold mines of Kolar came Rocky, a ruthless gangster played with raw intensity by Yash. KGF Chapter 2 remains a visual and narrative beast, a gangster saga fueled by ambition, revenge, and an insatiable hunger for power. The high-grossing Indian movie's dark underbelly, coupled with its adrenaline-pumping action and larger-than-life portrayal of its protagonist, appealed to the audience's fascination with the underworld and anti-hero narratives.
5. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015)
Box Office Turnover: ₹910 crore
In this movie, Salman Khan as Bajrangi, a simpleton with a heart of gold, embarks on a mission to reunite a mute Pakistani girl with her family in a heartwarming tale. The film's message of humanity transcending borders and embracing cultural differences resonated with the Indian movie-goer, who cheered for Bajrangi's selfless journey. The emotional rollercoaster, sprinkled with Salman Khan's trademark charm, became a high-grossing Indian movie and a tear jerking success.
6. Secret Superstar (2017)
Box Office Turnover: ₹905.7 crore
A young girl's musical dreams take flight under the anonymous online persona of 'Secret Superstar,' defying societal constraints and inspiring millions. Starring the blockbuster-maker Aamir Khan, the movie was charmingly adorable and memorable. This heartwarming story of female empowerment truly resonated with Indian audiences, particularly women and young girls, being etched in history as one of the highest-grossing movies in India.
7. Animal (2023)
Box Office Turnover: ₹842.48 crore (as of December, 2023)
Causing much ruble,starring Ranbir Kapoor as a gangster in an action-packed thriller, Animal released in 2023. The movie, like many other top-grossers before, think Padmavat and Kashmir Files, proved the power of the Indian audience to create diamonds out of the coal of controversy. The hype surrounding the film's high-octane action sequences and Ranbir's intense performance has already made it a potential contender in the race for the highest-grossing Indian movie of all time.
8. PK (2014)
Box Office Turnover: ₹753.36 crore
In PK, an innocent alien named PK crash-lands on Earth and loses his communication device. Naïve and childlike, he embarks on a journey to retrieve it, encountering the complexities of human life and religion head-on. PK's refreshing perspective on religion and social issues resonated with audiences tired of rigid dogma. Aamir Khan's masterful performance as the curious alien, coupled with the film's blend of humour, satire, and social commentary, made it a thought-provoking crowd-pleaser tnat went on to become one of the highest-grossing Indian movies of all time.
9. Gadar 2 (2022)
Box Office Turnover: ₹700 crore (estimated)
The long-awaited sequel to the 2001 blockbuster 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha’, this film revisited the tragic love story of Tara Singh (Sunny Deol), a Sikh truck driver separated from his Pakistani wife Sakina (Ameesha Patel) during the Partition of India. Set against the backdrop of a divided nation, the film promised to reignite the emotional rollercoaster of the original, focusing on themes of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. This high-grossing Indian movie's potential to tap into emotions surrounding the Partition era and showcasing the enduring power of love across borders made it a highly anticipated box office contender.
10. Sultan (2016)
Box Office Turnover: ₹584.85 crore
Sultan Ali Khan (Salman Khan), a wrestling champion haunted by past failures, attempts to reclaim his glory and win back his estranged wife in this gut-picher of a movie. The film chronicles his gruelling journey of self-discovery and redemption, showcasing the physical and emotional struggles of an athlete battling his inner demons. The high-grossing Indian movie's focus on family, sacrifice, and second chances further cemented its place among the highest-grossing films of 2016 and possibly of all time.
These are just a few of the gems that have captivated Indian audiences and kicked down box office records. With their diverse narratives, powerful performances, and a touch of dramatic magic, these films have cemented their place in the Indian cinematic landscape. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to be transported to worlds of wonder, laughter, and tears – the magic of Indian cinema awaits!