Bollywood is known for its glittering blockbusters, catchy songs, and iconic stars. But beyond the mainstream hits lie hidden cinematic gems that often go unnoticed. These films may not have set the box office on fire, but they offer compelling stories, powerful performances, and a refreshing break from formulaic cinema. Here are ten underrated Bollywood movies that deserve your attention.
Masaan (2015)
Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Masaan is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and societal judgment. Set in Varanasi, it interweaves two narratives—a girl shamed for a hotel-room encounter and a lower-caste boy falling in love with an upper-caste girl. The film is a masterclass in restrained storytelling, with powerful performances from Richa Chadha and Vicky Kaushal (in his debut role).
Titli (2014)
Produced by Dibakar Banerjee, Titli is a grim look at a dysfunctional family in Delhi’s underbelly. The youngest of three brothers, Titli, wants to escape the violent carjacking business his family runs. The film is raw, intense, and unflinching in its depiction of toxic masculinity and economic desperation. It’s a hard-hitting debut by director Kanu Behl.
Ugly (2013)
Anurag Kashyap’s Ugly is a dark, psychological thriller that explores human greed and the fragility of relationships. When a young girl goes missing, her father, stepfather, and mother spiral into a series of selfish decisions that reveal their fractured selves. The film is gritty, uncomfortable, and thought-provoking, with standout performances by Ronit Roy and Rahul Bhat.
A Death in the Gunj (2016)
Konkona Sen Sharma’s directorial debut, A Death in the Gunj, is a melancholic tale set in 1979 McCluskieganj. It follows a shy and sensitive young man, Shutu, who becomes emotionally unraveled during a family vacation. The atmospheric setting and subtle storytelling make this film a haunting exploration of masculinity and mental health.
Margarita with a Straw (2014)
Starring Kalki Koechlin, this heartfelt drama revolves around Laila, a young woman with cerebral palsy who navigates her way through sexuality, independence, and self-acceptance. Directed by Shonali Bose, the film handles complex themes with honesty and sensitivity, making it one of the most quietly powerful films of the decade.
Stanley Ka Dabba (2011)
Amole Gupte’s Stanley Ka Dabba is a charming and emotional tale about a schoolboy who never brings a lunchbox to school. The film touches on issues of child labor and neglect but does so with warmth and humor. It’s a reminder that great storytelling doesn’t need big budgets or stars.
The Lunchbox (2013)
While it did receive international acclaim, The Lunchbox still feels underrated within mainstream Indian audiences. Starring Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur, the film is a tender, slow-burning romance sparked by a wrongly delivered lunchbox. It’s a story of loneliness, hope, and human connection that lingers long after the credits roll.
Court (2014)
A courtroom drama unlike any other, Court examines the absurdity of the Indian legal system. Directed by Chaitanya Tamhane, the film follows the trial of a folk singer accused of inciting a man’s suicide through his lyrics. It’s a brilliant satire and social critique, executed with minimalism and sharp observation.
Sonchiriya (2019)
Set in the ravines of Chambal, Sonchiriya tells the story of bandits grappling with morality, caste, and survival. Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the film features a stellar cast including Sushant Singh Rajput, Manoj Bajpayee, and Bhumi Pednekar. Its gritty realism and dialect authenticity make it a standout, albeit overlooked, film.
Qarib Qarib Singlle (2017)
Starring Irrfan Khan and Parvathy Thiruvothu, this unconventional romantic comedy is a refreshing take on love and companionship. It follows two middle-aged individuals as they embark on a whimsical journey filled with awkward moments, emotional discoveries, and personal growth. The nuanced performances and understated humor make it a charming film that flew under the radar.
Conclusion
Bollywood’s underrated films are often where true innovation and artistic risk-taking happen. These ten films break away from stereotypes, dig deeper into social issues, and tell human stories with honesty and nuance. If you’re looking to expand your Bollywood palate beyond the usual masala fare, these hidden gems are a great place to start.