Streaming Sensation: India’s Biggest Blockbusters Now on Netflix
Imagine accessing the grandiosity of some of India’s most celebrated films with just a few clicks. Thanks to Netflix, this dream is now a reality! With its expansive library of Indian films, and the majority being thrilling theatrical acquisitions, Netflix owns the streaming rights to 15 out of the top 50 highest-earning Indian films of all time. From dramatic period pieces to action-packed extravaganzas, Netflix’s curation stands unparalleled. Sit back as we explore some of these monumental films that have captivated audiences globally and are now set to enthrall you from the comfort of your home.
RRR (2022)
Rank: 3
Worldwide gross: $142-143 million
Languages available: Hindi, English, Portuguese, Spanish, & Turkish
Cast: Jr. NTR, Ram Charan, Alia Bhatt
Director: S. S. Rajamouli
Picture the unthinkable – two famed Indian revolutionaries join forces to challenge British rule. “RRR” is the epitome of grand cinematic storytelling, blending history with vibrant fiction. This epic period drama became a global sensation, thanks to its inventive action sequences and the Oscar-winning track “Naatu Naatu.” Debuting on Netflix on May 20, 2022, “RRR” amassed a dedicated following, with its theatrical re-releases across multiple countries only adding to its legend. Dive into this unique experience while it streams on Netflix.
Jawan (2023)
Rank: 5
Worldwide gross: $137-139 million
Languages available: Hindi, Tamil, & Telugu
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi
Director: Atlee
Shah Rukh Khan’s electrifying vigilante action flick surged to popularity instantly, even crashing ticketing sites upon its release. Premiering on over 10,000 screens worldwide, “Jawan” flaunts Khan in a dazzling double role. This oscillating tale of corruption fighters impresses with its OTT (over-the-top) action. Step into this whirlwind of raw power and charisma, streaming now on Netflix.
Kalki 2898 AD (2024)
Rank: 7
Worldwide gross: $123-143 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan
Director: Nag Ashwin
“Kalki 2898 AD” celebrates significant milestones, including being the first Indian film introduced at San Diego Comic-Con. This dystopian sci-fi wonder, promising an immersive sequel, crossed $1 million in advanced U.S. ticket sales at an unprecedented speed. Revel in this futuristic saga, exclusive on Netflix.
Animal (2023)
Rank: 8
Worldwide gross: $110 million
Languages available: Hindi, English, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil, & Telugu
Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol
Director: Sandeep Reddy Vanga
Positioned as a multi-lingual marvel, “Animal” encapsulates the tempestuous tale of a son’s obsession with his father. Leading the global box office on its opening weekend, this revenge drama, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, carves its niche with stark graphic violence and layered storytelling. Engage with this narrative that has sparked divisive opinions, streaming now on Netflix.
PK (2014)
Rank: 12
Worldwide gross: $90-92 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sanjay Dutt
Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Reimagining societal norms through the eyes of a stranded alien, “PK” brings forth a hilarious yet profound critique on human religious customs. Earning over $100 million globally, it set a precedent for Indian cinema. Dive into this satirical gem, streaming on Netflix.
Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire (2023)
Rank: 15
Worldwide gross: $74-84 million
Languages available: Telugu, English, Kannada, Malayalam, & Tamil
Cast: Prabhas, Prithviraj Sukumaran, Shruthi Haasan
Director: Prashanth Neel
Dive into another dystopian sensation starring Prabhas, following in the footsteps of “Kalki 2898 AD.” “Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire” emerges as a rare film where Netflix acquired comprehensive streaming rights except for the Hindi-dubbed version. Brace yourself for Part 2 in 2025, and start streaming Part 1 onNetflix.
Leo (2023)
Rank: 19
Worldwide gross: $71-74 million
Languages available: Tamil, Hindi, & Telugu
Cast: Vijay, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun
Director: Lokesh Kanagaraj
Inspired by David Cronenberg’s “A History of Violence,” “Leo” is a gripping retelling sans confusion with the Netflix Original animated film “Leo” starring Adam Sandler. Stream this engaging thriller on Netflix.
Sanju (2018)
Rank: 20
Worldwide gross: $69-70 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, Paresh Rawal
Director: Rajkumar Hirani
The riveting biographical film “Sanju,” featuring Sanjay Dutt (who appears in several other films on this list), sparked massive demand, prompting extended theater hours in Dubai. Dive into this engaging portrayal of Dutt’s tumultuous life, available on Netflix.
Dunki (2023)
Rank: 25
Worldwide gross: $56 million
Languages available: Hindi, Portuguese, & Spanish
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Boman Irani
Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Before its theater debut, “Dunki” – a comedy-drama exploring immigration – had already doubled its budget with robust deals for streaming, satellite, and music rights. The first collaboration between Rajkumar Hirani and Shah Rukh Khan, this gem streams on Netflix.
Saaho (2019)
Rank: 30
Worldwide gross: $50-52 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Prabhas, Shraddha Kapoor, Jackie Shroff
Director: Sujeeth
“Saaho” stands tall as Prabhas’s first foray into Hindi cinema, and Shraddha Kapoor’s Telugu debut. Revel in this thrilling action saga about undercover officers, streaming on Netflix.
Kantara (2022)
Rank: 35
Worldwide gross: $47-48 million
Languages available: Hindi & English
Cast: Rishab Shetty, Kishore Kumar G., Achyuth Kumar
Director: Rishab Shetty
Immerse in the dramatic conflict between humans and nature in “Kantara,” a Kannada hit that saw dubbed versions added in numerous Indian languages. This groundbreaking film streams exclusively on Netflix.
Kabir Singh (2019)
Rank: 37
Worldwide gross: $45 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Kiara Advani, Suresh Oberoi
Director: Sandeep Reddy Varma
Uncover the Hindi remake “Kabir Singh,” a parallel to Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Telugu drama “Arjun Reddy.” Dive into the controversial yet intoxicating tale on Netflix.
Dilwale (2015)
Rank: 38
Worldwide gross: $44-$45 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Varun Dhawan
Director: Rohit Shetty
Revel in the chemistry of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol in the action-packed romantic comedy “Dilwale.” This longstanding highest-grossing film in several regions streams on Netflix.
Adipurush (2023)
Rank: 45
Worldwide gross: $42 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Prabhas, Kriti Sanon, Saif Ali Khan
Director: Om Raut
Experience the mythological epic “Adipurush,” another bilingual marvel featuring Prabhas. Dive into its intricate world, available for steaming on Netflix.
Happy New Year (2014)
Rank: 49
Worldwide gross: $41-46 million
Language available: Hindi
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Boman Irani
Director: Farah Khan
Join the high-energy world of “Happy New Year,” a heist comedy with vibrant dance numbers, including “Lovely.” Streaming exclusively on Netflix.
Which of these Indian blockbusters is your favorite? Which are you excited to check out? Let us know in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes “RRR” stand out among other Indian films?
“RRR” is celebrated for its imaginative narrative, exploring what could have happened if two famed revolutionaries had teamed up. The inventive action sequences and the Oscar-winning track “Naatu Naatu” further add to its appeal.
Why did “Jawan” crash ticketing sites upon its release?
The immense demand for Shah Rukh Khan’s double role in “Jawan” led to an overwhelming rush for tickets, causing many ticketing sites to crash momentarily.
Is “Kalki 2898 AD” part of a series?
Yes, “Kalki 2898 AD” is set to have a sequel. The film’s immense popularity has accelerated work on its next installment.
How was “Animal” received by audiences worldwide?
“Animal” topped the global box office during its opening weekend and ranked in the Top 10 in 17 countries during its second week on Netflix.
What’s unique about “PK”?
“PK” offers a humorous yet profound critique on human religious customs through the eyes of a stranded alien, earning it a unique spot in Bollywood cinema.
When can we expect “Salaar: Part 2”?
“Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire” has set the stage for its sequel, which is expected to release sometime in 2025.
What sets “Leo” apart from other action dramas?
“Leo” draws inspiration from David Cronenberg’s “A History of Violence” and has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative and performances.
What is “Sanju” about?
“Sanju” is a biographical film about the tumultuous life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, showcasing his trials and triumphs.
How did “Dunki” perform even before its release?
Before its theater debut, “Dunki” had already doubled its budget with pre-release deals for streaming, satellite, and music rights.
What’s the significance of “Happy New Year” in Indian cinema?
“Happy New Year” remains a high-grossing film in several regions and is known for its high-energy dance numbers and engaging heist plot.
Tags
RRR, Jawan, Kalki 2898 AD, Animal, PK, Salaar, Leo, Sanju, Dunki, Saaho, Kantara, Kabir Singh, Dilwale, Adipurush, Happy New Year