Top 10 Underrated Bollywood Movies You Must Watch: Bollywood is known for its larger-than-life storytelling, star-studded blockbusters, and chartbuster songs. However, amidst all the commercial glitz and glamour, many brilliant films often go unnoticed.

These underrated gems may not have been box office hits, but they deserve recognition for their storytelling, performances, and unique cinematic experiences. Here’s a list of 10 underrated Bollywood movies that you must watch:

1. Masaan (2015)

Directed by Neeraj Ghaywan, Masaan is a gripping drama that explores themes of caste, loss, and redemption. The film beautifully intertwines two parallel narratives—one of a young woman (Richa Chadha) battling societal oppression, and the other of a boy (Vicky Kaushal) experiencing love and loss. With its poetic storytelling and haunting soundtrack, Masaan is a cinematic masterpiece that deserved more recognition.

2. Sonchiriya (2019)

This crime drama, directed by Abhishek Chaubey, is set in the ravines of Chambal and revolves around a group of bandits struggling with their past and morality. Despite stellar performances from Manoj Bajpayee, Sushant Singh Rajput, Bhumi Pednekar, and Ranvir Shorey, Sonchiriya did not receive the commercial success it deserved. Its intense narrative, raw cinematography, and strong social commentary make it a must-watch.

3. Ugly (2014)

Anurag Kashyap’s Ugly is a dark and disturbing thriller that explores human greed, selfishness, and the grim reality of society. The story revolves around the disappearance of a young girl, but instead of a traditional crime drama, it exposes the moral decay of its characters. Brilliantly acted and masterfully directed, Ugly remains one of Kashyap’s most underrated works.

4. Tumbbad (2018)

A unique blend of horror and mythology, Tumbbad is an atmospheric film that takes viewers on a visually stunning journey. The film follows a man obsessed with finding a hidden treasure, leading to a chilling story of greed and supernatural elements. With breathtaking cinematography, impeccable storytelling, and a haunting background score, Tumbbad is a rare gem in Indian cinema.

5. Mukkabaaz (2017)

Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Mukkabaaz is a sports drama that goes beyond boxing and delves into caste-based discrimination and political corruption in India. Vineet Kumar Singh delivers a phenomenal performance as an aspiring boxer fighting against a system that doesn’t support him. With its raw energy and impactful narrative, Mukkabaaz is a film that deserved more appreciation.

6. Udaan (2010)

Vikramaditya Motwane’s Udaan is a coming-of-age drama that tells the story of a teenager (Rajat Barmecha) who dreams of becoming a writer while dealing with an oppressive father (Ronit Roy). The film’s emotional depth, strong performances, and powerful storytelling make it one of Bollywood’s most poignant films. Despite receiving critical acclaim, Udaan did not gain the commercial success it deserved.

7. Titli (2015)

Produced by Dibakar Banerjee and directed by Kanu Behl, Titli is an intense drama that follows the life of a young man trying to escape his violent and criminal family. The film provides a raw and realistic portrayal of crime, family ties, and survival in a harsh society. Its gripping screenplay and naturalistic performances make Titli an unforgettable experience.

8. A Death in the Gunj (2016)

Konkona Sen Sharma’s directorial debut, A Death in the Gunj, is a slow-burn psychological drama that subtly builds tension leading to a tragic climax. The film, set in the 1970s, explores masculinity, societal expectations, and mental health through the eyes of its vulnerable protagonist, played by Vikrant Massey. The film’s eerie atmosphere, brilliant performances, and nuanced storytelling make it a hidden gem.

9. Bhavesh Joshi Superhero (2018)

Bollywood has rarely experimented with the superhero genre, but Bhavesh Joshi Superhero did it uniquely by blending realism with action. Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film follows a common man (Harshvardhan Kapoor) who turns into a vigilante to fight corruption. Though it failed at the box office, its gripping narrative and intense action sequences make it a must-watch for fans of superhero stories.

10. Shahid (2012)

Based on the real-life story of lawyer and human rights activist Shahid Azmi, this biographical drama is directed by Hansal Mehta and features a powerful performance by Rajkummar Rao. Shahid is a hard-hitting film that highlights themes of justice, terrorism, and political manipulation. Despite its brilliance, it remains one of Bollywood’s lesser-known masterpieces.

Bollywood is often dominated by big-budget films and star power, but these underrated movies prove that exceptional storytelling and performances exist beyond mainstream cinema. Each of these films brings something unique to the table—whether it’s a deep social message, stunning visuals, or gripping narratives. If you’re looking to explore Bollywood beyond the usual blockbusters, these 10 underrated films should definitely be on your watchlist!

Content Writer – Gaurika Sharma