The Hindi film industry, popularly known as Bollywood, is known for its extravagant blockbusters and star-studded spectacles. However, there are numerous films which did not receive the widespread recognition they truly deserved despite their exceptional storytelling, performances and execution.
Here is a look at 10 underrated gems of Hindi cinema that should have received more love and acclaim from the audiences:
1. Udaan (2010):
Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, Udaan is a poignant coming-of-age drama that tells the story of Rohan (Rajat Barmecha), a teenager who is forced to live under the harsh rule of his authoritarian father (Ronit Roy). The film beautifully captures themes of ambition, oppression and self-discovery. Despite critical acclaim and awards, it remains underrated in the mainstream.
2. The Lunchbox (2013):
Directed by Ritesh Batra, The Lunchbox is a heartwarming romance starring Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The film revolves around an accidental exchange of lunchboxes between a lonely housewife and a widowed office worker, leading to a unique epistolary friendship. While the film received international recognition, it was overshadowed by bigger Bollywood releases domestically.
3. Qarib Qarib Singlle (2017):
A lighthearted romantic drama directed by Tanuja Chandra, Qarib Qarib Singlle stars Irrfan Khan and Parvathy Thiruvothu. It follows the journey of two middle-aged individuals who embark on an unexpected trip together after connecting through an online dating app. The film offers refreshing performances and an unconventional love story but did not get the commercial success it deserved.
4. Runway 34 (2022):
Ajay Devgn’s directorial venture, Runway 34, is a gripping aviation thriller starring Ajay Devgn, Amitabh Bachchan and Rakul Preet Singh. The film is inspired by real events and follows the challenges faced by a pilot in a high-stakes landing. Despite its slick cinematography and compelling narrative, it did not gain the attention it merited at the box office.
5. Dor (2006):
Nagesh Kukunoor’s Dor is an emotional tale of loss, redemption and female empowerment, featuring Ayesha Takia, Gul Panag and Shreyas Talpade. The story follows the lives of two women from different backgrounds whose destinies become intertwined due to a tragic incident. The film’s moving narrative and strong performances make it a hidden gem.
6. Masaan (2015):
Neeraj Ghaywan’s Masaan is a hard-hitting social drama featuring Richa Chadha, Vicky Kaushal and Sanjay Mishra. It interweaves two parallel narratives set in Varanasi, addressing themes of caste discrimination, love and loss. Despite winning accolades at international film festivals, it did not receive the mainstream popularity it deserved.
7. I Am Kalam (2010):
This inspiring film, directed by Nila Madhab Panda, tells the story of Chhotu (Harsh Mayar), a poor boy who aspires to become like the former Indian President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. With its heartwarming message about education and perseverance, I Am Kalam won multiple international awards but remained largely unnoticed by the general audiences.
8. Zubeidaa (2001):
Directed by Shyam Benegal, Zubeidaa stars Karisma Kapoor, Rekha and Manoj Bajpayee. It is based on the true story of an actress who became the second wife of a Maharaja. The film features a beautiful soundtrack by A.R. Rahman and a compelling narrative but it failed to gain widespread commercial success.
9. Nil Battey Sannata (2016):
Directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, this inspiring drama stars Swara Bhasker as a single mother who enrolls in her daughter’s school to motivate her to study. The film delivers a strong message about education and aspiration but did not get the box-office reception it deserved.
10. Margarita with a Straw (2014):
Directed by Shonali Bose, this film stars Kalki Koechlin as a young woman with cerebral palsy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery. The film was critically acclaimed and won awards at international festivals but was overlooked by mainstream audiences.
These films showcase the richness and diversity of Hindi cinema beyond the typical commercial entertainers. They deserve to be revisited and appreciated for their artistic depth, unique storytelling and stellar performances. If you haven’t watched them yet, now is the perfect time to explore these hidden gems of Bollywood.