While Bollywood is known for its glitzy blockbusters and star-studded releases, there are a handful of movies that don’t get the recognition they truly deserve. These hidden gems quietly slip under the radar, yet leave a lasting impact on those who watch them. In this blog, we’ll explore the most underrated Bollywood movies that may not have made a big splash at the box office, but absolutely deserve your time and appreciation.
Today, We will look at most underrated bollywood movies on Mediafeed
The Beauty of the Unseen
Not every brilliant film makes it to the headlines or box office records. Some of the most emotionally powerful, well-written, and thought-provoking movies often go unnoticed amidst the noise. These films are made with heart, backed by strong performances, and tell stories that linger in your memory. If you’re someone who enjoys cinema beyond the conventional, this list is for you.
Top 5 Most Underrated Bollywood Movies You Should Definitely Watch
Rank | Movie Title | Genre and Release Year | What Makes It Special |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Masaan | Drama (2015) | Emotionally raw story that explores love, grief, and social taboos |
2 | Ankhon Dekhi | Philosophical Drama (2013) | A unique take on life told through an ordinary man’s lens |
3 | Udaan | Coming-of-Age Drama (2010) | A heartfelt journey of a teenager striving for freedom |
4 | Khosla Ka Ghosla | Comedy-Drama (2006) | A smart and relatable family story filled with wit and realism |
5 | Johnny Gaddaar | Crime Thriller (2007) | An edgy, stylish thriller with twists and brilliant performances |
1. Masaan
Set in the spiritual city of Varanasi, Masaan intertwines two stories that both deal with loss and societal expectations. Richa Chadda delivers a moving performance as a woman navigating judgment and personal grief. Vicky Kaushal, in his breakout role, portrays a young man whose love story is shadowed by caste boundaries. The film is poetic, emotional, and deeply humane. Though it didn’t earn commercial success at the time, Masaan continues to be celebrated for its honesty and grace.

2. Ankhon Dekhi
Ankhon Dekhi is one of those rare films that takes a simple idea and turns it into something extraordinary. It follows Bauji, played masterfully by Sanjay Mishra, who decides to believe only in what he sees for himself. This decision leads him through a series of life-altering realizations, both hilarious and profound. With its warm storytelling and philosophical undertones, this film stays with you, inviting you to question your own perspectives.

3. Udaan
This is not just a film; it is a journey of a young boy trying to break free from the shackles of abuse and authoritarian parenting. Udaan tells the story of Rohan, a teenager expelled from school, who returns to live with a stern and unkind father. The raw emotions, restrained direction, and evocative poetry throughout the film make it an unforgettable experience. Despite its critical acclaim, it remains one of Bollywood’s most overlooked masterpieces.

4. Khosla Ka Ghosla
This Delhi-based film takes a humorous yet realistic look at land scams and middle-class struggles. When a retired man’s land is illegally taken over, his quirky family decides to take matters into their own hands. What unfolds is a clever, satirical plan that leaves you smiling. With memorable characters and relatable situations, Khosla Ka Ghosla offers both heart and humor without trying too hard. Over the years, it has found its rightful place as a cult favorite.

5. Johnny Gaddaar
Unlike the usual Bollywood thrillers, Johnny Gaddaar is sleek, smart, and full of surprises. The movie follows a group of men involved in a shady deal that quickly spirals into betrayal and murder. The narrative is gripping, the direction is stylish, and Neil Nitin Mukesh shines in his role. Despite having all the elements of a great noir thriller, this film was largely ignored when it first released. Thankfully, time has been kind to it, and it’s now recognized for the gem it is.

What Sets These Films Apart
These movies may not have massive budgets or multi-crore marketing campaigns, but they have something even more valuable—soul. Here’s why they stand out:
- They focus on authentic storytelling rather than gimmicks or formulas
- Performances are deeply rooted in character, not just star power
- Direction often takes creative risks, resulting in fresh cinematic experiences
- Themes are relatable and thought-provoking, often pushing beyond traditional Bollywood boundaries
A Few More You Shouldn’t Miss
There are several other films that almost made the top five and deserve honorable mentions:
- Tumbbad – A visually stunning horror-fantasy that blends Indian folklore with human greed
- Sir – A soft, slow-burning love story that addresses class differences in modern India
- Bhavesh Joshi Superhero – A grounded vigilante tale with strong social commentary
- Raincoat – A minimalist romantic drama starring Aishwarya Rai and Ajay Devgn
- Peepli Live – A darkly funny political satire exploring rural India and media sensationalism
Where Can You Watch These Films?
Most of these underrated gems are available on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Zee5, and Disney+ Hotstar. A quick search will help you locate them. If you’re looking to refresh your movie-watching list, these titles will add a great mix of emotion, intelligence, and originality.
Conclusion
In a world full of flashy entertainers and overhyped dramas, these most underrated Bollywood movies bring a breath of fresh air. They don’t just aim to entertain; they provoke thought, tug at your heartstrings, and leave you thinking long after the credits roll. If you’ve been stuck watching the same kind of movies, it might be time to explore these lesser-known but unforgettable stories. You never know—your next favorite movie might be one you’ve never heard of until now.
Also Read : Best Indian TV Serials of All Time: Top 10 Iconic TV Serials That Made History