Best Desi Movies of All Time to Watch In 2023: Bollywood, the film industry in India, has a rich history dating back to 1913 with the release of the first silent Indian film “Raja Harishchandra.” In 1931, India’s first talkie film “Alam Ara” was released, marking the beginning of the “Golden Age” of Bollywood in the 1940s-50s. The industry saw creative experimentation in the 60s-70s, with a shift towards commercial formulaic films in the 80s. In the 2000s and present, Bollywood continues to evolve with the introduction of new technologies and global influences and the rise of offbeat and independent films. Bollywood reflects Indian culture and society, playing a significant role in shaping the country’s identity and cultural heritage.
If you want to relive the golden history of Bollywood, and looking for some of the best Bollywood movies of all time, then here you’re at the right place. In this article, we bring you the 18 best Desi Movies of All-Time.
Best Desi Movies
1. 3 Idiots (2009)
One of the best coming-of-age comedy-drama desi movies follows the story of three friends and their journey to an Indian engineering college.
2. PK (2014)
A science fiction comedy film that explores themes of spirituality and humanity, and stars Aamir Khan as an alien who comes to Earth.
3. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
A coming-of-age drama film that follows the lives and relationships of three friends and their experiences in Mumbai.
4. Koi Mil Gaya (2003)
A science fiction film that follows the story of a developmentally disabled man who befriends an extraterrestrial being.
5. Mera Naam Joker (1970)
A classic Bollywood film that tells the story of a jester and his life, struggles and relationships.
6. Sholay (1975)
A classic Indian action-adventure film about two criminals who a retired police officer hires to capture a notorious dacoit.
7. Andaaz Apna Apna (1994)
A Bollywood comedy film that follows the story of two men who compete for the love of the same woman.
8. Lagaan (2001)
This one of the best sports drama desi movies is set in the British colonial era and follows the story of a group of Indian villagers who challenge the British to a game of cricket.
9. Mother India (1957)
A classic Bollywood film that portrays the struggles of a rural Indian woman, and her fight for survival and dignity in the face of poverty and oppression.
10. Deewar (1975)
A classic Indian crime drama film about two brothers who take different paths in life, one becoming a police officer and the other a smuggler.
11. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
A romantic drama film that follows the story of two friends who are separated, and their journey to rekindle their friendship and love.
12. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
A romantic comedy-drama film that follows the story of two young people who fall in love while on a trip to Europe.
13. Guide (1965)
This one of the best classic desi movies is based on the novel “The Guide” by R.K. Narayan and follows the story of a tour guide who becomes a spiritual guide for a woman.
14. Mughal-e-Azam (1960)
A classic Bollywood historical film that is based on the love story between Emperor Akbar’s son, Salim, and a court dancer, Anarkali.
15. Pather Panchali (1955)
A classic Indian drama film that tells the story of a young boy growing up in a rural Bengali family.
16. Anand (1971)
A classic Bollywood film that is a poignant story of a terminally ill man, his relationships, and his philosophy on life.
17. Baahubali (2015)
A two-part epic Indian film tells the story of two brothers divided by loyalty and power, and their fight for control over an ancient kingdom.
18. Rang De Basanti (2006)
This one of the best coming-of-age drama desi movies follows the story of a group of young friends who are inspired by the sacrifices of the Indian Freedom Fighters.
