The realm of Indian cinema, affectionately dubbed Bollywood, has been an immersive kaleidoscope of emotions, narratives, and entertainment for generations. From its nascent monochrome days to the larger-than-life spectacles of contemporary times, Bollywood has not only captivated audiences worldwide. Still, it has also consistently redefined the benchmark of success at the box office. In this comprehensive article, we embark on a captivating journey through the highest grossing Indian films throughout the ages, shedding light on their significance, impact, and the stories behind their phenomenal success. Join us as we delve into the world of the highest grossing Indian films throughout the ages, uncovering the gems that have shaped the cinematic landscape over time.
A Brief About Indian Cinema: The Bollywood Industry
Bollywood, an endearing nickname encapsulating India’s vibrant film industry, transcends mere celluloid. It is a repository of cultural heritage, artistic innovation, and socio-political reflections. Originating in the early 20th century with the advent of silent films like “Raja Harishchandra,” Bollywood has traversed a remarkable path of evolution, marked by innovations in storytelling techniques, music, and technological advancements. Today, it stands tall as a global cinematic powerhouse, renowned for its diverse genres, compelling narratives, and sheer magnitude of influence.
List of the 10 Best Historical Bollywood Movies
1. Mother India (1957)
Director: Mehboob Khan
Cast: Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar
Genre: Drama
Net Gross: Approximately INR 5 crore
Description: “Mother India” isn’t just a film; it’s a monumental ode to the resilience of a woman in the face of adversity. Set against the backdrop of rural India, it unveils the heart-wrenching saga of Radha, a mother who stands unwaveringly as the backbone of her family, even as circumstances challenge her at every step.
2. Sholay (1975)
Director: Ramesh Sippy
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Hema Malini
Genre: Action-Adventure
Net Gross: Approximately INR 15 crore
Description: “Sholay” is an epic that redefined action on the Indian screen. With its indomitable characters, spine-tingling dialogue, and relentless pursuit of justice, the film etched its place in the cinematic pantheon as a timeless masterpiece.
3. Mughal-E-Azam (1960)
Director: K. Asif
Cast: Dilip Kumar, Madhubala, and Prithviraj Kapoor
Genre: historical drama
Net Gross: Approximately INR 11 crore
Description: “Mughal-E-Azam” isn’t just a film; it’s a living tapestry woven with love, passion, and the grandeur of the Mughal era. The film’s captivating portrayal of the doomed love affair between Prince Salim and the court dancer Anarkali evokes a sense of timeless romance.
4. Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994)
Director: Sooraj Barjatya
Cast: Madhuri Dixit, Salman Khan
Genre: romantic drama
Net Gross: Approximately INR 127 crore
Description: “Hum Aapke Hain Koun” is a cinematic celebration of family values, love, and tradition. With its engaging storyline, melodic music, and endearing characters, the film became a beacon of wholesomeness in the 1990s.
5. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Director: Aditya Chopra
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol
Genre: romantic drama
Net Gross: Approximately INR 106 crore
Description: “DDLJ” isn’t just a movie; it’s an emotion that captured hearts globally. As Raj and Simran transcended borders and generations with their love story, the film became a cultural touchstone, a testament to the power of love conquering all barriers.
6. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
Director: Farhan Akhtar
Cast: Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Akshaye Khanna
Genre: coming-of-age drama
Description: “Dil Chahta Hai” ushered in a new wave of storytelling, portraying the intricacies of modern-day friendships and relationships with refreshing honesty.
7. 3 Idiots (2009)
Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Cast: Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi
Genre: Comedy-Drama
Description: “3 Idiots” isn’t just a comedy; it’s a poignant commentary on the education system and societal pressures. Its heartfelt narrative and resonant message left an indelible mark on audiences.
8. Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
Director: Manmohan Desai
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Vinod Khanna, Rishi Kapoor
Genre: Action-Comedy
Description: “Amar Akbar Anthony” took the concept of “masala” entertainment to new heights. Its exuberance, unforgettable dialogues, and the camaraderie of three brothers from different faiths struck a chord with audiences.
9. Anand (1971)
Director: Hrishikesh Mukherjee
Cast: Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan
Genre: Drama
Description: “Anand” is a poignant exploration of life’s fragility and the friendship that blossoms between two individuals, beautifully portrayed by Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan.
10. Guide (1965)
Director: Vijay Anand
Cast: Dev Anand, Waheeda Rehman
Genre: Drama
Description: “Guide” delves into the complex layers of human desire, aspirations, and spiritual awakening. With its soul-stirring performances and evocative narrative, the film lingers in the minds of its viewers.
Highest-grossing Bollywood Oldest Movie
Mughal-E-Azam (1960)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 11 crore
Description: “Mughal-E-Azam” is the epitome of luxury and creative brilliance. The film’s vivid depiction of a love story thwarted by societal norms remains etched in cinematic memory.
Mother India (1957)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 5 crore
Description: “Mother India” is an immortal tribute to the power of maternal sacrifice and the unbreakable spirit of a woman. Nargis’ portrayal of Radha exudes raw emotions that continue to resonate with audiences.
Sholay (1975)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 15 crore
Description: “Sholay” is more than a film; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Its dialogues, characters, and confrontation between good and evil are etched in the annals of Indian cinema.
Bahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 1,810 crore
Description: “Bahubali 2” redefined cinematic spectacle, captivating audiences with its unparalleled visuals and a narrative that transported viewers to a world of grandeur and fantasy.
Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 127 crore
Description: “Hum Aapke Hain Koun” symbolises joy, love, and unity. Its portrayal of Indian family values struck a chord, making it a cherished memory for audiences.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 106 crore
Description: “DDLJ” isn’t just a film; it’s an institution of romance. The train sequence, the mustard fields, and the eternal love story between Raj and Simran became iconic moments in cinema.
Ganga Jumna (1961)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 4.5 crore
Description: “Ganga Jumna” is a tale of morality and sacrifice, exploring the conflict between two brothers amidst societal disparities. It showcased the emotional depth of Indian narratives.
Raja Hindustani (1996)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 77 crore
Description: “Raja Hindustani” traversed class boundaries to depict love in its purest form. The film’s heart-rending narrative and melodious music touched the hearts of millions.
Mere Mehboob (1963)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 5 crore
Description: “Mere Mehboob” celebrates romance against the backdrop of societal norms. Its portrayal of love’s triumph over adversities resonated with audiences.
Naya Daur (1957)
Net Gross: Approximately INR 4.5 crore
Description: “Naya Daur” is a cinematic ode to human determination and resilience. Its portrayal of a small village’s struggle against modernity reflects changing times.
Highest Paid Bollywood Actors in India
The financial landscape of Bollywood is intricately woven around the charismatic personas of its leading actors. Here’s an insight into the top earners:
Akshay Kumar
Charge: Rs. 100–125 crore per film
Description: Akshay Kumar, the versatile maverick, has transitioned from action hero to comedy kingpin, endearing himself to diverse audiences with his innate charm and relatability.
Salman Khan
Charge: Rs. 100–110 crore per film
Description: Salman Khan, the beloved “Bhai” of Bollywood, embodies larger-than-life entertainment. His magnetic presence and signature roles have garnered him a dedicated fanbase.
Shah Rukh Khan
Charge: Rs. 80–100 crore per film
Description: Shah Rukh Khan, the quintessential “King of Romance,” continues to weave magic with his dynamic performances. His journey from an outsider to an icon is a testament to his resilience.
Aamir Khan
Charge: Rs. 70–80 crore per film
Description: Aamir Khan, the astute actor-filmmaker, has forged a unique path with his selective roles and a commitment to socially relevant narratives. His films resonate with both critics and audiences.
Hrithik Roshan
Charge: Rs. 60–70 crore per film
Description: Hrithik Roshan’s chiselled physique and versatile acting have made him a heartthrob. His dedication to roles, coupled with his remarkable dance skills, cements his stardom.
Conclusion
Bollywood’s evolution from its modest origins to global eminence is a saga of these cinematic triumphs. These highest grossing Indian films throughout the ages traverse the spectrum of human emotions, societal narratives, and artistic brilliance. As Bollywood continues to flourish, it promises to regale audiences with descriptions that blend tradition and modernity, crafting a legacy that resonates with future generations. Through highs and lows, the highest grossing Indian films throughout the ages have remained an immortal wellspring of creativity, uniting cultures and touching lives across the world.
