Bollywood, India’s film industry, has been churning out a plethora of movies for decades. Among these, some have achieved incredible box office success, both domestically and internationally. In this article, we will dive into a few Bollywood movies that have set benchmarks in terms of earnings and popularity. From timeless classics to modern blockbusters, these films have not only won hearts but also raked in substantial revenue.
1. 3 Idiots (2009)
3 Idiots is a quintessential example of a Bollywood movie that achieved phenomenal success. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi, the film became a massive hit upon its release. It tackled the pressures of academic life in India with humor and sensitivity.
The story follows three friends who reunite to find their long-lost buddy, leading them to revisit their college days and reflect on the pressures they faced. 3 Idiots resonated with audiences of all ages, making it a huge commercial success. It earned over ₹400 crore worldwide, becoming one of the highest-grossing Bollywood movies of all time. Its success can be attributed to its relatable storyline, stellar performances, and catchy soundtrack.
2. Dangal (2016)
Another standout in the list of successful Bollywood movies is Dangal, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and featuring Aamir Khan in the lead role. The film tells the real-life story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, who defied societal norms to achieve wrestling glory.
Dangal became a massive success due to its inspirational narrative and Khan’s powerful performance. The movie grossed over ₹2,000 crore worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing Bollywood movies ever. Its success extended beyond Indian shores, as it garnered substantial earnings in China, showcasing the global appeal of Indian cinema.
3. Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017)
Although not a traditional Bollywood movie, Baahubali 2: The Conclusion deserves mention due to its enormous box office success. Directed by S. S. Rajamouli and featuring Prabhas, Rana Daggubati, and Anushka Shetty, this Telugu-language film was dubbed into Hindi and other languages, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Baahubali 2 is the sequel to Baahubali: The Beginning and continues the epic saga of the fictional kingdom of Mahishmati. The film was praised for its grand visuals, elaborate sets, and compelling storyline. It shattered numerous records, grossing over ₹1,800 crore worldwide. The success of Baahubali 2 highlights the growing influence of regional films in the Bollywood industry and the potential for cross-language appeal.
4. Gully Boy (2019)
Gully Boy, directed by Zoya Akhtar and starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, is another notable entry in the realm of successful Bollywood movies. Inspired by the lives of Mumbai street rappers, the film follows the journey of a young aspiring rapper who overcomes various obstacles to achieve his dreams.
The movie received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the underground rap scene and its powerful performances. It earned around ₹240 crore worldwide, making it a significant hit in recent years. The film’s success was bolstered by its original soundtrack, which captured the essence of Mumbai’s vibrant music culture.
Conclusion
The Bollywood movies discussed above are just a few examples of films that have achieved remarkable box office success. From the comedic and emotional narrative of 3 Idiots to the epic grandeur of Baahubali 2, these films have not only entertained audiences but also made significant impacts on the global cinema landscape. Their success underscores the growing influence of Indian cinema and its ability to resonate with viewers across different cultures. As Bollywood continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see which future releases will join the ranks of these iconic box office hits.
