Hello, everyone. As a film enthusiast who has spent countless evenings lost in the world of cinema, I find Bollywood's charm truly endless.
Bollywood has given us stories that touch our souls, make us laugh, cry, and think. Among them, evergreen Bollywood movies stand out as those special films that never fade with time. They are like old friends we revisit, finding new meaning each time.
In this article, I will share my thoughts on 20 best Bollywood movies till now, focusing on what makes each an evergreen Bollywood movie. These films span decades, directed by visionary filmmakers and starring talented actors who brought characters to life.
Let's start getting into these treasures that continue to inspire audiences in 2025 and beyond.
What Makes a Movie Evergreen?
Before we explore the list, let's consider what turns a film into an evergreen Bollywood movie. It's not just about box office success or awards.
These evergreen Bollywood movies have universal themes like love, sacrifice, friendship, and justice. They blend drama, music, and emotion in a way that resonates across generations.
Even today, with streaming platforms, people turn to these classics for comfort. An evergreen Bollywood movie often reflects society's values while pushing boundaries. Now, let's look at 20 of the best that embody this spirit.
List of 20 Evergreen Bollywood Movies
1. Sholay (1975)
Sholay is often called the greatest evergreen Bollywood movie for its epic storytelling and unforgettable characters. Directed by Ramesh Sippy, this film stars Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Jaya Bhaduri, Sanjeev Kumar, and Amjad Khan.
The story follows two friends hired by a former police officer to fight a ruthless bandit. What makes Sholay an evergreen Bollywood movie is its mix of action, comedy, and tragedy. The dialogues, like "Kitne aadmi the," are still quoted today. Ramesh Sippy's direction captures the vast Indian landscape, making it feel grand.
Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra's chemistry as Jai and Veeru is legendary, showing true friendship. Hema Malini adds grace as Basanti, while Amjad Khan's Gabbar Singh became the ultimate villain.
Even after 50 years, Sholay's themes of loyalty and revenge remain relevant. It's a film that families watch together, laughing at the comic scenes and thrilling at the action. This evergreen Bollywood movie has influenced countless films worldwide, proving its timeless appeal.
2. Mother India (1957)
Mother India is a powerful tale of resilience and motherhood, earning its place as an evergreen Bollywood movie. Directed by Mehboob Khan, it stars Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar, and Raaj Kumar.
The story follows a poor village woman raising her sons amid hardships. Mehboob Khan's direction highlights rural India's struggles, with stunning cinematography. Nargis delivers a career-defining performance as Radha, embodying strength and sacrifice. Sunil Dutt and Rajendra Kumar play her sons, adding emotional layers.
The film's music, including "Duniya Mein Hum Aaye Hain," tugs at heartstrings. As an evergreen Bollywood movie, Mother India addresses social issues like poverty and justice, which remain pertinent today.
It was India's first Oscar nominee for Best Foreign Language Film. Nargis's role challenged stereotypes, showing women as heroes. Families often watch it to appreciate its message of perseverance. This evergreen Bollywood movie continues to motivate, proving that true stories of human spirit never age.
3. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, or DDLJ, is a romantic evergreen Bollywood movie that redefined love stories. Directed by Aditya Chopra, it stars Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Amrish Puri, and Farida Jalal.
The film tells of two young people falling in love during a trip, facing family traditions. Aditya Chopra's fresh direction blends humor, drama, and iconic songs like "Tujhe Dekha To." Shah Rukh Khan as Raj is charming and persistent, while Kajol's Simran is spirited and relatable. Amrish Puri's strict father adds tension.
What makes DDLJ an evergreen Bollywood movie is its theme of balancing modern love with cultural values. It ran in theaters for over 20 years, a record.
In 2025, young couples still quote its lines and visit its filming spots. This film celebrates family bonds and true love, making it a must-watch for every generation. As an evergreen Bollywood movie, DDLJ's warmth and optimism keep it alive in hearts.
4. 3 Idiots (2009)
3 Idiots is a fun yet profound evergreen Bollywood movie on education and life. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, it stars Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, and Boman Irani.
The story follows three friends navigating college pressures and chasing dreams. Rajkumar Hirani's direction mixes comedy and serious topics. Aamir Khan as Rancho is witty and wise, while the ensemble cast adds humor.
Songs like "All Is Well" are catchy. As an evergreen Bollywood movie, 3 Idiots critiques rote learning, encouraging passion over grades—a vital message in 2025.
It sparked discussions on mental health. Students and parents watch it for motivation. This evergreen Bollywood movie blends laughs with lessons, making it relatable.
5. Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015)
Bajrangi Bhaijaan is a heartfelt evergreen Bollywood movie about humanity. Directed by Kabir Khan, it stars Salman Khan, Harshaali Malhotra, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
The plot involves a man helping a lost child return home across borders. Kabir Khan's direction emphasizes kindness and faith. Salman Khan as Pavan is innocent and devoted, while Harshaali Malhotra's Munni steals hearts. Nawazuddin Siddiqui adds comic relief.
As an evergreen Bollywood movie, it promotes unity beyond religion and borders, timely in our divided world.
Its emotional depth and humor make it rewatchable. Families adore its positive message. This evergreen Bollywood movie shows simple acts can change lives.
6. Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)
Sooraj Barjatya’s Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! stars Salman Khan, Madhuri Dixit, Mohnish Bahl, and Renuka Shahane.
This family drama celebrates love and traditions through a wedding. Madhuri’s charm and Salman’s warmth shine. Songs like “Didi Tera Devar Deewana” are festive.
Its focus on family values makes it one of the best Bollywood movies, loved in 2025 for its joyful vibe.
7. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
Farhan Akhtar’s Dil Chahta Hai stars Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Akshaye Khanna, and Preity Zinta.
This story of three friends navigating love and life redefined modern Bollywood.
Its fresh style and music, like “Dil Chahta Hai,” make it one of the best Bollywood movies, inspiring youth in 2025 with its friendship focus.
8. Taare Zameen Par (2007)
Aamir Khan’s Taare Zameen Par stars Aamir Khan, Darsheel Safary, and Tisca Chopra.
This story of a dyslexic child and his teacher is heartfelt.
This Bollywood movie expresses a message of acceptance which makes it one of the best Bollywood movies, inspiring parents and educators in 2025.
9. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai stars Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji.
This romantic drama about love and friendship is a classic. Its music and emotional scenes make it one of the best Bollywood movies, loved in 2025 for its nostalgia.
10. Rang De Basanti (2006)
Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Rang De Basanti stars Aamir Khan, Siddharth, and Kunal Kapoor. This story of youth awakening to social change is powerful.
Its music and patriotism make it one of the best Bollywood movies, inspiring in 2025.
11. Baazigar (1993)
Abbas-Mustan’s Baazigar stars Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Shilpa Shetty.
This thriller about revenge and love shocked audiences. Shah Rukh’s anti-hero role makes it one of the best Bollywood movies, gripping in 2025 for its bold plot.
12. Swades (2004)
Ashutosh Gowariker’s Swades stars Shah Rukh Khan and Gayatri Joshi.
This story of an NRI rediscovering his roots is inspiring.
Its heartfelt narrative makes it one of the best Bollywood movies, motivating in 2025.
13. Andaz Apna Apna (1994)
Rajkumar Santoshi’s Andaz Apna Apna stars Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, and Raveena Tandon.
This comedy about two slackers is hilarious. Its quirky dialogues make it one of the best Bollywood movies, a cult favorite in 2025.
14. Deewaar (1975)
Yash Chopra’s Deewaar stars Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Nirupa Roy, and Neetu Singh. This story of two brothers—one a cop, one a criminal—is intense.
Amitabh’s brooding Vijay made him the “Angry Young Man.” Its dialogues, like “Mere paas maa hai,” are iconic.
Deewaar’s family conflict and moral dilemmas make it one of the best Bollywood movie of all time.
15. Wake Up Sid (2009)
Directed by Ayan Mukerji, tells the story of Siddharth Mehra, a carefree college student who drifts through life without a plan. After failing his exams, he clashes with his family and moves out, landing in the world of Aisha, an aspiring writer.
The film follows Sid’s journey from a lazy dreamer to someone who finds purpose, with Aisha as his guide.
Ayan Mukerji’s direction keeps the story simple yet powerful, making it one of the best Bollywood movies. The plot feels real, like a friend’s story, with moments of laughter, arguments, and growth.
Its focus on finding yourself makes Wake Up Sid a standout among best Bollywood movies, relatable to anyone navigating life’s uncertainties
16. Lagaan (2001)
Ashutosh Gowariker’s Lagaan stars Aamir Khan, Gracy Singh, Rachel Shelley, and Paul Blackthorne. Set in colonial India, villagers challenge British rulers in a cricket match. Aamir Khan’s determined Bhuvan and thrilling cricket scenes make it an evergreen Bollywood movie.
Gowariker’s direction captures unity and resistance. The music uplifts, and its Oscar nomination brought global fame.
Lagaan’s underdog spirit inspires in 2025, making it an evergreen Bollywood movie for its heart and historical depth.
17. Drishyam (2015)
Directed by Nishikant Kamat, Drishyam stars Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Ishita Dutta. This gripping thriller follows a man protecting his family by outsmarting the police after an accidental crime.
Ajay Devgn’s intense yet relatable Vijay and Tabu’s fierce cop role shine. Its clever plot twists and emotional stakes make it one of the best Bollywood movies.
Drishyam’s focus on family loyalty resonates in 2025, keeping it fresh among best Bollywood movies for its suspense and heart.
18. Roja (1992)
Mani Ratnam’s Roja stars Arvind Swamy, Madhoo, and Pankaj Kapur. This romantic drama, set against terrorism, follows a woman’s quest to save her kidnapped husband.
Mani Ratnam’s sensitive direction and A.R. Rahman’s iconic music, like “Chhoti Si Aasha,” make it one of the best Bollywood movies.
Madhoo’s passionate Roja captivates. Its blend of love and patriotism remains powerful in 2025, securing Roja among best Bollywood movies for its emotional and social impact.
19. Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
Nikkhil Advani’s Kal Ho Naa Ho stars Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan. This emotional drama about love, sacrifice, and friendship is heartwarming.
Shah Rukh’s charming yet tragic role and soulful songs like “Kal Ho Naa Ho” make it one of the best Bollywood movies.
Its message of living fully still resonates, keeping Kal Ho Naa Ho among best Bollywood movies for its tear-jerking appeal.
20. Mera Naam Joker (1970)
Raj Kapoor’s Mera Naam Joker stars Raj Kapoor, Simi Garewal, Rishi Kapoor, and Kseniya Ryabinkina. This semi-autobiographical tale of a clown hiding his pain is poignant.
Raj Kapoor’s heartfelt direction and songs like “Jeena Yahan Marna Yahan” make it one of the best Bollywood movies. Its exploration of love, sacrifice, and the artist’s life touches hearts.
Though initially underappreciated, its emotional depth shines in 2025, securing Mera Naam Joker among best Bollywood movies for its raw, moving narrative.
Why These Movies Endure?
These 20 films represent the best of Bollywood, each an evergreen Bollywood movie that captures the human experience. From Sholay's action to Bajrangi Bhaijaan's compassion, they offer something for everyone.
Directed by masters like Ramesh Sippy and Rajkumar Hirani, starring icons like Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan, they blend entertainment with meaning.
In 2025, with new releases, these classics remind us of storytelling's power. Many of these legendary films are now streaming on Netflix and on other leading OTT platforms, ready for you to enjoy anytime, anywhere. So don’t just read about them—experience the magic for yourself.
.jpg "Linking to Bookmark in Word Document Saved on SharePoint")
