IMDb, or Internet Movie Database, is one of the most popular and authoritative sources for movie, TV, and celebrity content. Millions of users rate and review movies on IMDb, creating a comprehensive and dynamic ranking system. Among the thousands of movies from all over the world, only a few have made it to the IMDb Top 250 list, which showcases the highest-rated movies of all time. In this article, we will look at the top 4 Indian movies that have achieved this feat, and explore what makes them so special and beloved by audiences.
4. Dangal (2016) – IMDb Rating: 8.3
Dangal, which means “wrestling” in Hindi, is a biographical sports drama film directed by Nitesh Tiwari, who also stars as the lead character. The film is based on the true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters Geeta and Babita to become world-class wrestlers, despite facing social and familial obstacles. The film is a celebration of female empowerment, as well as a tribute to the passion and perseverance of the Phogat family. Dangal is the highest-grossing Indian film ever, and has won numerous awards, including four National Film Awards and nine Filmfare Awards. It is also the first and only Indian film to cross 2 billion yuan ($311 million) at the Chinese box office1.
3. Jai Bhim (2021) – IMDb Rating: 8.8
Jai Bhim, which means “Hail Bhim” or “Victory to Bhim”, is a reference to B.R. Ambedkar, a social reformer and chief architect of the Indian Constitution who fought for the rights of the oppressed Dalits or lower castes. The film, directed by T.J. Gnanavel and starring Suriya, is based on a real-life incident that took place in 1995, when a tribal man was arrested and tortured by the police for a case of alleged theft. His wife seeks the help of a human-rights lawyer Chandru, who fights for justice and exposes the atrocities committed by the police and the upper castes. The film is a gripping and realistic portrayal of the discrimination and violence faced by the Dalits in India, as well as a powerful courtroom drama that highlights the importance of legal aid and activism. Jai Bhim has received critical acclaim and overwhelming response from the viewers, becoming one of the most popular Indian movies on IMDb2.
2. Taare Zameen Par (2007) – IMDb Rating: 8.3
Taare Zameen Par, which means “Stars on Earth” in Hindi, is an educational drama film directed by Aamir Khan, who also plays a supporting role as an art teacher. The film revolves around Ishaan, an eight-year-old boy who suffers from dyslexia, a learning disorder that affects his reading and writing skills. He is misunderstood and mistreated by his parents, teachers, and peers, who label him as a lazy troublemaker. His life changes when he meets Nikumbh, an unconventional art teacher who recognizes his condition and helps him overcome his difficulties. The film is an emotional and inspiring journey of a child who discovers his true potential and self-worth with the guidance of a compassionate mentor. Taare Zameen Par is widely regarded as one of the best films on children’s education and disability awareness in India, and has won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Film on Family Welfare3.
1. Pather Panchali (1955) – IMDb Rating: 8.2
Pather Panchali, which means “Song of the Little Road” in Bengali, is a drama film directed by Satyajit Ray, based on a novel by Bibhutibhushan Bandyopadhyay. The film is the first part of The Apu Trilogy, which follows the life of Apu, a young boy who grows up in a poor rural family in Bengal. The film depicts the joys and sorrows of Apu and his sister Durga, as they cope with their harsh reality and dream of a better future. The film is a masterpiece of realism and humanism, capturing the beauty and tragedy of everyday life with poetic simplicity and sensitivity. Pather Panchali is considered one of the greatest films ever made, and has influenced many filmmakers around the world. It was also the first Indian film to win international acclaim, receiving several awards at prestigious festivals such as Cannes4.