Bollywood action films offer exciting stunts, heart-wrenching drama, and larger-than-life characters.
Classics like Sholay and modern films like Uri showcase the evolution of Bollywood across decades.
These movies remain must-watch for fans seeking adrenaline, drama, and cultural cinematic impact.
Bollywood has consistently delivered some of the best action movies over the years, changing the way the Indian audience views high-octane movies. Ranging from nostalgic movies to more patriotic dramas, these films cast a spell with spectacular stunt sequences that complement powerful narratives.
For action lovers and enthusiasts of Indian cinema, these are quintessential Bollywood action movies to explore larger-than-life characters, heartfelt emotions, iconic dialogues, and breathtaking stunts that never grow old.
Let's look at the five must-watch Bollywood action movies to delve into the Indian action genre.
This film has opened a new way of storytelling in the Indian action genre. The story about Jai and Veeru, orphans hired by Thakur Baldev Singh to capture the ruthless dacoit Gabbar Singh, finds its way into the hearts of every cinema lover.
The movie leaves its mark by providing viewers with an unforgettable experience, seamlessly interweaving action, friendship, and revenge. It established the paradigm for dialogues, emotions, and action sequences in India. Such a movie is still an inspiration to Indian filmmakers today.
Considered one of the finest works of the legendary Ramesh Sippy, Sholay managed to bring together megastars Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Jaya Bhaduri, and Amjad Khan, as well as the most memorable villain. This stellar cast and direction practically gave birth to a cinematic gem that ran for years in theaters.
Wanted brought on a defining moment for action cinema in the 2000s. Radhe is a fearless gangster who falls in love with Jhanvi, but must face trouble from rival gangsters and the police.
The film is full of intense fight sequences and romance, interspersed with slick dramatic twists and sharp dialogue. It keeps viewers glued to the screen until the last seconds, making it one of Bollywood's best action movies in the 2000s.
Wanted, directed by Prabhu Deva, stars Salman Khan, Ayesha Takia, Prakash Raj, and Mahesh Manjrekar. It is a remake of the blockbuster Telugu movie Pokiri, starring Mahesh Babu in the lead. Prabhu Deva's action choreography and dance style rejuvenated Bollywood with a new kind of energy.
Dhoom 2 upgraded the standards for heist films in Bollywood with international-level action sequences. The story begins with the chase of Aryan, a master thief known for high-profile robberies. He is being pursued by ACP Jai Dixit and his partner, Ali. Bike chases, glamorous settings, and ingenious heist sequences made this movie a massive blockbuster and a favorite among action fans.
Sanjay Gadhvi directed Dhoom 2, which stars Hrithik Roshan, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Uday Chopra, and Bipasha Basu. Hrithik in the title role of the charming anti-hero is widely regarded as one of the best roles in his career, while Aishwarya as Sunehri brings a new dimension and depth to the story.
The superhero film Krrish opened up new horizons for Indian cinema and set several milestones for Indian science fiction films. The story follows Krishna, a young man gifted with superhuman abilities, who takes on the identity of a new superhero named Krrish to save humanity.
The film showcased an emotional story alongside grand stunts and path-breaking visual effects that children and adults appreciate. Krrish is a sequel to the 2003 movie Koi... Mil Gaya.
Directed by Rakesh Roshan, Krrish features Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra, Rekha, and Naseeruddin Shah as the antagonist. The film shot to the top in 2006, establishing a new standard for action choreography and visual effects in the Bollywood industry, inspiring many future superhero movies.
Set against the backdrop of real incidents, Uri: The Surgical Strike is a stirring war drama. Major Vihaan Singh Shergill heads a covert operation to avenge an attack on an Indian Army camp in Uri.
The movie was celebrated by the audience for its iconic dialogue, elite action, and heartfelt moments. Vicky Kaushal's dialogue "How is the Josh?" made the audience leave the theater with a high.
Uri, directed by Adithya Dhar, stars Vicky Kaushal, Paresh Rawal, Mohit Raina, and Yami Gautam. The film's technicalities, hard-hitting combat scenes, and soul-stirring background score have solidified it as one of the best Bollywood action movies.
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The above-mentioned action entertainers are some of the must-watch Bollywood action movies from various eras and styles - bandit dramas to colonial military blockbusters, combining action with strong emotions, powerful characters, and a mix of Indian culture, which makes the Bollywood movies stand out.
Each movie offers a unique experience, from friendship to patriotism. These films are an excellent introduction for those interested in Indian cinema and the finest action films of Bollywood.
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What are the top 5 movies in India?
The top five movies in India are Dangal, Baahubali 2: The Conclusion, Pushpa: The Rule, RRR, and KGF Chapter 2, whose box office collection has peaked into newer heights and received absolute applause from the audience.
What are the best action movies in Bollywood?
The best action films in Bollywood are Sholay, Dhoom 2, Wanted, Krrish, and Uri: The Surgical Strike. These films showcase daring stunts, dramatic characters, and timeless narratives that shaped Indian action cinema.
Why are these Bollywood action movies so popular?
The magical yet perfect blend of action and emotions, with gripping stories and larger-than-life characters, makes the Bollywood action movies so popular. These action movies offer action, emotion, visuals, and more.
Are these movies suitable for first-time action viewers?
Yes, Sholay and Dhoom 2 are perfect for a person who wants to explore Indian action, as these two films mix extraordinary action with a human emotion driven by strong storytelling, making the newcomers get excited about the Bollywood movies.
Where can audiences watch these Bollywood action movies?
Top Indian action movies are generally available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney+ Hotstar, and other OTT platforms. In these platforms, some of the action movies are also available in regional dubs so that everyone can enjoy the spectacular action movies in their own language.