Classic and New Hindi/Bollywood Movies: A Must-Watch List

If you are looking for some of the best Hindi/Bollywood movies to watch, you have come to the right place. This post lists some classic Hindi films, including the best Aamir Khan movies. A list of the best new Hindi movies in 2025 is also included.

Must-Watch Classic Hindi/Bollywood Movies

Dangal (2016)

Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Dangal is an inspiring sports drama based on the real-life story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters Geeta and Babita. The film explores themes of gender equality, perseverance, and the power of familial bonds. Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Mahavir Singh Phogat was critically acclaimed, and the movie became one of the highest-grossing Bollywood movies of all time.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Sports drama
• Notable Actors: Aamir Khan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Sanya Malhotra
• Cultural Impact: Dangal is a global success and helped shine a spotlight on the fight for women’s sports rights in India.

3 Idiots (2009)

One of the most iconic Bollywood movies of the 21st century, 3 Idiots is a comedy-drama that critiques the traditional education system while delivering an inspiring message about pursuing one’s passion. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film stars Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi in lead roles. 3 Idiots is one of Bollywood’s most successful films, earning critical acclaim and resonating with audiences worldwide.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Comedy, drama
• Notable Actors: Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Kareena Kapoor
• Cultural Impact: 3 Idiots revolutionized the way Indian audiences perceive education and success.

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Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)

This coming-of-age road movie directed by Zoya Akhtar is a delightful blend of friendship, self-discovery, and adventure. The story follows three friends on a road trip through Spain as they face their fears and confront their pasts. Featuring an ensemble cast of Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, and Abhay Deol, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara became a symbol of freedom, embracing life, and making the most of every moment.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Drama, comedy
• Notable Actors: Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif
• Cultural Impact: The film became a massive hit and is often cited as a cult favorite, especially for its inspiring message.

Barfi! (2012)

Anurag Basu’s Barfi! is a beautiful tale of love, friendship, and the challenges faced by those with disabilities. The Hindi movie tells the story of Barfi, a mute and deaf man, and his relationships with two women. Ranbir Kapoor’s portrayal of Barfi, along with Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D’Cruz’s stellar performances, makes this a film that stays with you long after the credits roll.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Romance, drama
• Notable Actors: Ranbir Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Ileana D’Cruz
• Cultural Impact: Barfi! received widespread critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of disability and love.

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PK (2014)

PK, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, is a satirical drama that explores the complexities of religion, human beliefs, and social norms. This Hindi movie stars Aamir Khan as an alien named PK who, after arriving on Earth, struggles to understand the concepts of religion and human behavior. His innocent and honest questions challenge the existing societal conventions. PK is celebrated for its bold social commentary, humor, and heartwarming performances.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Satire, drama
• Notable Actors: Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sushant Singh Rajput
• Cultural Impact: PK is one of Bollywood’s highest-grossing films, and its themes on religion and societal questioning sparked a nationwide debate, making it a landmark film.

Taare Zameen Par (2007)

Directed by Aamir Khan, Taare Zameen Par is a touching drama that deals with the struggles of a young boy with dyslexia. The film highlights the importance of understanding and nurturing children’s unique talents rather than forcing them into conventional molds. The story revolves around Ishaan, played by Darsheel Safary, who struggles in school until a compassionate art teacher, portrayed by Aamir Khan, helps him discover his hidden potential.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Family drama
• Notable Actors: Aamir Khan, Darsheel Safary, Tisca Chopra
• Cultural Impact: Taare Zameen Par brought attention to learning disabilities in India and became a socially influential film that encouraged a shift towards a more empathetic educational system.

>> Aamir Khan Filmography: All Aamir Khan Movies

Pathaan (2023)

Directed by Siddharth Anand, Pathaan stars Shah Rukh Khan in the titular role and features an action-packed story about a secret agent on a mission to stop a global terror plot. This Bollywood movie is packed with high-octane action sequences and has been praised for its stylish presentation and Shah Rukh Khan’s charismatic performance.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Action, thriller
• Notable Actors: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, John Abraham
• Cultural Impact: Pathaan made waves internationally and was a huge commercial success, marking Shah Rukh Khan’s triumphant return to the big screen.

Tanu Weds Manu (2011)

Starring Kangana Ranaut and R. Madhavan, the film revolves around the chaotic journey of an arranged marriage. Kangana’s portrayal of Tanu is one of her career-defining performances, and the film became a commercial and critical success.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Romantic comedy
• Notable Actors: Kangana Ranaut, R. Madhavan
• Cultural Impact: Tanu Weds Manu redefined the way Bollywood portrayed quirky love stories, giving rise to more films in the same genre.

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Sultan (2016)

Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar, Sultan is a sports drama that tells the story of Sultan Ali Khan, a wrestler who overcomes personal and professional challenges to achieve greatness. Salman Khan plays the titular role, delivering a physically demanding performance that showcases his transformation for the role. This Hindi movie also explores themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption, as Sultan’s journey takes him through both the wrestling ring and the emotional battles of his personal life.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Sports drama
• Notable Actors: Salman Khan, Anushka Sharma
• Cultural Impact: Sultan became a massive commercial success, breaking box-office records and inspiring audiences with its themes of perseverance and resilience.

Baaghi (2016)

Baaghi is an action-packed Hindi film that follows the journey of Ronnie, a rebellious young man trained in martial arts, who fights for love and justice. Directed by Sabbir Khan and starring Tiger Shroff in the lead role, the film is known for its high-octane action sequences, stylish choreography, and emotional depth. Baaghi gained attention for Tiger Shroff’s physical prowess and his ability to perform some of the most intense action scenes in Bollywood.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Action, romance
• Notable Actors: Tiger Shroff, Shraddha Kapoor
• Cultural Impact: The film has developed a cult following among action movie fans and marked the beginning of a successful Baaghi franchise.

Dhoom 2 (2006)

A sequel to the popular action film Dhoom (2004), Dhoom 2 is a high-energy thriller that brings together stylish heists, fast-paced action, and charismatic characters. Directed by Sanjay Gadhvi, the film stars Hrithik Roshan as Aryan/Mr. A, a master thief with unmatched skills. Dhoom 2 features incredible chase sequences and set-pieces that continue to captivate audiences. It also marked the return of Abhishek Bachchan as Jai Dixit, the unflappable cop.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Action, thriller
• Notable Actors: Hrithik Roshan, Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Uday Chopra
• Cultural Impact: Dhoom 2 raised the bar for action movies in Bollywood and became one of the highest-grossing films of the year.

Best New Hindi/Bollywood Movies in 2025

Sitaare Zameen Par (2025)

Released in June 2025, Sitaare Zameen Par is an inspirational Hindi movie that focuses on sports, perseverance, and teamwork. Directed by R. S. Prasanna, the film stars Aamir Khan and Genelia D’Souza in leading roles. It narrates the story of a basketball coach who serves community service and needs to train Neurodivergent adults after a DUI. The film’s theme, “Stars on Earth”, symbolizes both the protagonists’ rise to prominence and the untapped potential in everyone.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Basketball, comedy, drama, sport
• Notable Actors: Shah Rukh Khan, Genelia D’Souza
• Cultural Impact: As a 2025 release, the film has already generated significant buzz for its powerful performances and inspiring storyline.

Chhaava (2025)

Chhaava (2025) is a historical drama focusing on Hambirrao Mohite, a loyal general of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The film portrays his fierce battles against the Mughal Empire, his moral dilemmas, and the personal sacrifices he makes for the Maratha cause. Amidst political intrigue and war, Chhaava highlights themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice, culminating in a dramatic showdown for the future of the Maratha Empire.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Action epic, historical epic, action
• Notable Actors: Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, Rashmika Mandanna
• Cultural Impact: Chhaava celebrates the unsung warriors of India and their sacrifices for the greater good of their empire and the legacy they leave behind.

Housefull 5 (2025)

The Housefull series, known for its slapstick comedy and ensemble cast, returns with its fifth installment. Directed by Tarun Mansukhani, Housefull 5 promises to bring more uproarious situations and quirky characters. The film stars Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, and Kriti Sanon in a story about mistaken identities, family drama, and laughter. As always, Housefull 5 is packed with laugh-out-loud moments and crazy antics.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Comedy, drama, family
• Notable Actors: Akshay Kumar, Riteish Deshmukh, Kriti Sanon
• Cultural Impact: Housefull 5 is another hot Bollywood movie in 2025, continuing the legacy of one of Bollywood’s most successful comedy franchises.

Sikandar (2025)

Sikandar (2025) follows Sanjay Rajkot, the final heir of the Rajkot dynasty, who is known as “Sikandar”. After his wife Saisri dies in a bomb blast, her organs are donated to three recipients in Mumbai. Sanjay sets out to help these recipients – Kamar, Vaidehi, and Nisha – overcome their struggles, while facing threats from corrupt businessman Rakesh Pradhan. After a series of confrontations, including a cat-and-mouse chase with Rakesh’s son Arjun, Sanjay exposes Rakesh’s crimes and earns the title “Sikandar” for his bravery and selflessness.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Action, drama, thriller
• Notable Actors: Salman Khan, Rashmika Mandanna, Kajal Aggarwal
• Cultural Impact: Sikandar portrays a man’s transformation from heir to hero, emphasizing the power of compassion, resilience, and the fight against corruption.

Sky Force (2025)

Sky Force (2025) is an action-packed military thriller that follows an elite team of fighter pilots known as Sky Force, who are tasked with protecting national security against a deadly new enemy threat. Amidst breathtaking aerial battles, the film also delves into the personal struggles and bonds formed among the Sky Force members, highlighting themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and patriotism.

Key Highlights:

• Genre: Action, thriller, military
• Notable Actors: Akshay Kumar, Veer Pahariya, Nimrat Kaur
• Cultural Impact: Sky Force brings the excitement of aerial warfare to the big screen, blending cutting-edge technology and heart-pounding action with emotional depth and character development.

>> Full List of Hindi films of 2025

Bottom Line

If you are a film lover exploring the best classic and new Hindi movies, the movies introduced in this post are a must-watch. Whether you enjoy heartwarming dramas, action-packed thrillers, or quirky comedies, Bollywood offers something for everyone.