The great thing about movies is that there is no one-size-fits-all “must-watch” film for every Indian. The vast array of movies available is as diverse as the Indian population itself, allowing each individual to have their own personal “must-watch” movie. While some argue that “Shawshank Redemption” is a must-watch movie, citing its high rating on IMDb at 9.3/10, I have encountered many people (around a hundred, to be precise) who found the movie unrealistic, dull, and overrated. For them, a movie like “Pulp Fiction” was far superior to “Shawshank Redemption.” Ultimately, it all depends on one’s personal preferences and the genres they enjoy. Someone who prefers action films may not be a fan of Raj Kapoor movies, and vice versa. Additionally, there are numerous brilliant regional language movies like “Anbe Shivam,” “Magadheera,” “Bommarilu,” “Happy Days,” and many others that may go unnoticed by many.

However, here is a personal list of “must-watch” movies across various popular genres and themes, with a focus on Indian films. These movies are considered some of the best in their respective genres:

Life:

– “Anand” – This iconic film encapsulates the essence of living life to the fullest. The famous line “Anand mara nahi, Anand kabhi marte nahi” beautifully captures the message of living without regrets and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of others.

Thriller:

– “A Wednesday” – Dealing with the pressing issue of cross-border terrorism, this movie portrays the frustrations of the common man and their desire to take action against such acts. It is a gripping and thought-provoking watch.

For NRI’s:

– “Swades” – Inspired by the real-life story of Aravinda Pillalamarri and Ravi Kuchimanchi, this film follows the journey of an NRI working at NASA who decides to return to India and make a difference in the lives of its people. It is considered one of Shah Rukh Khan’s best performances and offers a poignant exploration of identity and belonging.

For every Indian Parent who has a Problem Child:

– “Taare Zameen Par” – This emotionally powerful film takes viewers on a roller coaster of emotions through the eyes of eight-year-old Ishaan. It highlights the importance of understanding, love, and support in unlocking a child’s potential and celebrates the uniqueness of every individual.

For the Youth of India:

– “Rang De Basanti” – This movie has the power to ignite the spirit of youth and inspire them to take action for the betterment of their country. With its impactful dialogues and engaging storyline, it is a definite must-watch.

Indian Culture:

– “Monsoon Wedding” – A cinematic masterpiece, this film beautifully reflects contemporary Indian culture, capturing both the joys and complexities of family, relationships, and traditions. It is a true coming-of-age portrayal of Indian cinema.

Hope:

– “Iqbal” – Set in a rural backdrop that resonates with a significant portion of India’s population, this motivational film follows the journey of the protagonist as he overcomes various challenges that plague many Indians, such as lack of resources, societal expectations, and the pursuit of dreams. It is a must-watch for its message of hope and resilience.

Patriotism:

– “Purab aur Paschim” – This film offers a soul-stirring experience for those who have always loved India but struggle to define what they love about their country. The song “Hai Preet Jahan ki Reet Sada” leaves viewers speechless, evoking a deep sense of pride and admiration for their

 nation.

Middle-Class Indians:

– “Khosla Ka Ghosla” – This movie revolves around the life of a middle-class man in New Delhi and highlights the struggles, dreams, and aspirations of common individuals. It is a captivating and relatable watch.

Comedy:

– “Andaz Apna Apna” – Regarded as one of the funniest Bollywood movies ever made, this hilarious tale follows the adventures of Paplu and Taplu as they compete for the love of their dreams. It is a laughter riot that has immortalized iconic characters in the minds of many Indians.

Friendship:

– “Dil Chahta Hai” – This film presents a realistic portrayal of contemporary Indian youth, depicting their friendships, aspirations, and challenges. The heartwarming bond among the lead characters resonates with viewers and leaves them longing for friendships like those portrayed onscreen.

Epic Historical Drama:

– “Jodha Akbar” – Set against the backdrop of a timeless love story, this film transcends barriers and showcases the dream of a secular and tolerant India. With extensive research and a captivating narrative, it successfully engages viewers and keeps them on the edge of their seats.

Additional Categories:

India, For its Honor and Pride:

– “Chak De India” – This film celebrates the spirit of patriotism and showcases the determination and resilience of Indian athletes. It is a motivational and inspiring watch.

War:

– “Border” – This movie delves into the sacrifices and heroism of the Indian soldiers during the Indo-Pak war of 1971. It pays tribute to their bravery and highlights the unity and camaraderie among them.

The Underbelly of Crime:

– “Satya”

– “Gangaajal”

– “Gangs of Wasseypur”