Unveiling the Top 10 Bollywood Movies That Defined a Decade
Bollywood, the vibrant heart of Indian cinema, has witnessed remarkable transformations over the decades. Each era is marked by films that not only entertain but also leave an indelible imprint on the cultural landscape. As we bid farewell to another decade, it’s time to reflect on the cinematic masterpieces of Bollywood that defined the last ten years. From groundbreaking narratives to stellar performances, these films have captivated audiences and shaped the cinematic discourse. Let’s delve into the top 10 Bollywood movies that have left an enduring legacy in the 2010s.
1. “Gully Boy” (2019):
Director Zoya Akhtar’s “Gully Boy” emerged as a cultural phenomenon, transcending the boundaries of conventional Bollywood cinema. Inspired by the lives of Mumbai street rappers, the film follows the journey of an aspiring rapper from the slums who dreams of making it big in the music industry. With its raw energy, compelling performances by Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, and a pulsating soundtrack, “Gully Boy” not only entertained but also gave voice to the marginalized youth of India.
2. “Dangal” (2016):
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, “Dangal” is a biographical sports drama based on the life of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, Geeta and Babita Phogat. A stirring tale of determination, perseverance, and female empowerment, the film struck a chord with audiences across the globe. Aamir Khan’s transformative performance, coupled with the film’s powerful message, propelled “Dangal” to become one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time.
3. “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” (2015):
Bollywood starrer Salman Khan’s “Bajrangi Bhaijaan,” directed by Kabir Khan, captured the essence of cross-border camaraderie amidst political tensions between India and Pakistan. The heartwarming story of a devout Hindu man’s journey to reunite a mute Pakistani girl with her family resonated deeply with audiences. With its emotional depth, memorable performances, and soul-stirring music, “Bajrangi Bhaijaan” reaffirmed the power of love and compassion in transcending boundaries.
4. “PK” (2014):
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, “PK” is a Bollywood satirical comedy-drama that challenged societal norms and religious dogma with wit and humor. Aamir Khan’s portrayal of an alien stranded on Earth, bewildered by human customs and beliefs, sparked introspection and debate on faith and spirituality. With its thought-provoking narrative and stellar ensemble cast, including Anushka Sharma and Saurabh Shukla, “PK” became one of the highest-grossing Indian films, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
5. “Queen” (2013):
Directed by Vikas Bahl, “Queen” is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that defied stereotypes and celebrated the spirit of self-discovery. Kangana Ranaut’s riveting performance as Rani, a young woman who embarks on a solo honeymoon trip after being jilted at the altar, struck a chord with audiences. The film’s refreshing narrative, poignant moments, and empowering message of resilience and self-reliance resonated with viewers, making “Queen” a cult classic of the decade.
6. “3 Idiots” (2009):
Although released in 2009, Rajkumar Hirani’s “3 Idiots” continued to reverberate Bollywood through the 2010s with its timeless appeal and universal themes. A hilarious yet insightful tale of friendship, education, and pursuing one’s passion, the film remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved and influential creations. Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi delivered stellar performances, while the film’s memorable dialogues and soul-stirring soundtrack struck a chord with audiences of all ages.
7. “Padmaavat” (2018):
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus “Padmaavat” sparked controversies and captivated audiences with its grandeur, opulence, and visual splendor. Based on the epic poem “Padmavat” by Malik Muhammad Jayasi, the film brought to life the legendary tale of Rani Padmavati, played by Deepika Padukone, and the valor of Rajput king Maharawal Ratan Singh, portrayed by Shahid Kapoor. Despite facing protests and challenges, “Padmaavat” dazzled cinephiles with its breathtaking visuals, intricate storytelling, and powerful performances.
8. “Andhadhun” (2018):
Sriram Raghavan’s “Andhadhun” redefined the thriller genre with its gripping narrative, unpredictable twists, and standout performances. Ayushmann Khurrana delivered a career-best performance as a blind pianist unwittingly entangled in a web of deceit and murder. With its taut screenplay, dark humor, and masterful direction, “Andhadhun” kept audiences on the edge of their seats and garnered widespread acclaim, cementing its status as one of the finest thrillers of the decade.
9. “Article 15” (2019):
Anubhav Sinha’s “Article 15” confronted societal prejudices and caste-based discrimination with unflinching honesty and conviction. Inspired by true events, the film follows a young IPS officer, played by Ayushmann Khurrana, as he investigates a brutal case of rape and murder in rural India. With its searing indictment of injustice and powerful performances, “Article 15” sparked important conversations about caste dynamics and systemic oppression, earning critical acclaim and accolades.
10. “Baahubali: The Beginning” (2015):
Although primarily a Telugu film, S.S. Rajamouli’s epic fantasy saga “Baahubali: The Beginning” transcended linguistic barriers and left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. With its grand scale, breathtaking visual effects, and captivating storytelling, the film captivated audiences across the country and beyond. Prabhas’s portrayal of the titular character, coupled with Rajamouli’s visionary direction, elevated “Baahubali” to unprecedented heights, setting new benchmarks for Indian cinema.
The past decade has been a transformative journey for Bollywood, marked by a diverse array of films that have entertained, inspired, and challenged audiences. From socially relevant dramas to epic blockbusters, each film on this list has contributed to the rich tapestry of Indian cinema. As we look ahead to the future, we can only anticipate the cinematic wonders that the next decade will bring, building upon the legacy of these decade-defining films.
