Bollywood, the world’s largest film industry in terms of production and audience, has a unique charm that captivates hearts worldwide. What makes Bollywood truly epic? Some might say it’s the winning formula of swoon-worthy romances, melodious soundtracks, charismatic lead actors, and plot twists that keep you hooked. Others argue it’s all about perfect timing from start to finish. In any case, if you’re ready for a cinematic journey, these Hindi movies on Hulu are worth more than a couple of hours of your time.
India churns out the most films annually, and Hulu provides greater access to many of them. We’ve curated a list of the best Bollywood films from various genres that you can now enjoy on Hulu.
PK
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Comedy, Drama, Fantasy | 163 minutes | Rajkumar Hirani | 8.2/10 | Aamir Khan, Anushka Sharma, Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Sushant Singh Rajput |
In the satirical sci-fi comedy PK, moral principles are challenged, and religion is reduced to its essence. The film emphasizes the idea that humanity transcends all belief systems. It begins with an innocent humanoid alien landing in India, armed with a device to understand Earth’s culture and inhabitants. When his companions abandon him and his device is stolen, PK embarks on an entertaining and often perilous journey to retrieve it. His encounters with religious leaders lead to comical clashes, especially when one claims the device as “a gift from God.” Prepare for hearty laughter and a heartwarming conclusion that reminds us of our true humanity. No wonder this is one of the most popular movies on our list.
Badhai Ho
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Comedy, Drama | 124 minutes | Amit Sharma | 7.8/10 | Ayushmann Khurrana, Sanya Malhotra, Neena Gupta, Gajraj Rao, Surekha Sikri |
When a man discovers that his mother is pregnant, he feels embarrassed. Nakul, planning to marry his talented and beautiful coworker, faces a dilemma. While his mother is a homemaker teased by her grandmother, his father works for the railways. As Nakul learns about his mother’s pregnancy just before his wedding, he starts avoiding his parents, friends, and society. This charming film takes you on a journey of family, love, and acceptance.
3 Idiots
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Comedy, Drama | 163 minutes | Rajkumar Hirani | 8.4/10 | Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, Boman Irani |
3 Idiots is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that explores the pressures of leaving school and questions the purpose of education—knowledge or just a job. Loosely based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel, the movie follows three young engineering students who enter one of India’s most prestigious institutions. As they navigate the intense pressure of college, maintain personal relationships, and nurture a strong friendship, the film delivers a heartwarming message—choose a career that truly ignites your passion over one that’s popular. After all, your happiness is what matters most. The movie also celebrates the moments of friendship, love, and brotherhood shared by the three friends, making it a must-watch for all.
Queen
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Comedy, Drama | 120 minutes | Vikas Bahl | 7.7/10 | Kangana Ranaut, Rajkummar Rao, Lisa Haydon, Chunky Pandey, Vinay Pathak |
Queen is a female-centric film set in a conservative Indian society, shedding light on women’s empowerment and the changing patriarchal mindset. Rani’s fiancé breaks off their engagement, deeming her too “conservative.” She embarks on a solo journey, visiting Paris and Amsterdam, discovering freedom and independence she’s never known. In the end, Rani decides to live life on her terms, just like a queen.
2 States
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Drama, Romance | 155 minutes | Abhishek Varman | 7.2/10 | Arjun Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Amrita Singh, Revathy, Shiv Panditt |
This movie beautifully narrates the cross-cultural love story of a couple who meet at an Indian Institute of Management campus. Ananya, a Tamil Brahmin from Chennai, and Krish, a North Indian Punjabi boy from Delhi, fall in love during their college days. However, when they decide to get married, complications arise due to their different backgrounds. The film explores the clash of cultures and the couple’s struggle to convince their parents to approve of their love. Amidst family drama and chaos, the on-screen chemistry between the young couple will captivate your heart.
Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Drama, Musical, Romance | 195 minutes | Karan Johar | 7.4/10 | Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Hrithik Roshan, Kajol, Kareena Kapoor, Shah Rukh Khan |
Considered a Bollywood classic, this film revolves around a wealthy Indian family bound by tradition and patriarchy. The family includes two sons, one of whom is adopted, a loving mother, and a traditional father. When the adopted son falls in love with a girl considered unsuitable by traditional family standards, the girl is rejected. Ten years later, the younger son strives to reunite them, leading to heartwarming moments and witty dialogues. A definite must-watch.
Padman
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Drama | 138 minutes | R. Balki | 7.8/10 | Akshay Kumar, Radhika Apte, Sonam Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan, Suhasini Mulay |
Padman tells the extraordinary story of an Indian hero challenging societal taboos surrounding menstruation. In many rural Indian households, menstruation, like sex-related topics, is considered taboo and stigmatized. Women often suffer due to lack of proper sex education, and our heroine embarks on a mission to change perceptions about menstruation. The film also sheds light on how cultural norms can blur the line between right and wrong, and the individuals who stand up for what’s right often face dire consequences. An inspiring and thought-provoking film.
Taare Zameen Par
Genre | Runtime | Director | IMDB rating | Cast |
---|---|---|---|---|
Drama, Family | 160 minutes | Aamir Khan | 8.3/10 | Aamir Khan, Darsheel Safary, Tanay Cheda, Sachet Engineer, Tisca Chopra |
Taare Zameen Par is a psychological drama that educates viewers about dyslexia in a time when it wasn’t widely understood in India. The film follows an 8-year-old dyslexic boy who is labeled a failure by his teachers and peers but is misunderstood by his family. Sent to a boarding school as punishment, he meets a young teacher who shares his condition. Together, they unlock the boy’s hidden artistic potential, revealing the struggles dyslexic individuals, especially children, face daily. A moving and enlightening film.
Wrapping it up!
These Bollywood gems on Hulu offer a diverse range of stories and emotions, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming tales of family and love, thought-provoking dramas that challenge societal norms, or laughter-inducing comedies that celebrate life, Indian cinema has it all. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and settle in for a cinematic journey that will not only entertain but also enlighten you about the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture, values, and human experiences. These movies are not just stories; they are windows into a world that’s as complex as it is beautiful, as diverse as it is relatable. Enjoy the magic of Bollywood on Hulu, where every film is a new adventure waiting to be explored.