Top Indian Movies Of 2016: A Look Back
Hey guys! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best Indian movies of 2016. It was a fantastic year for Indian cinema, with a diverse range of films that captivated audiences and critics alike. From Bollywood blockbusters to regional gems, 2016 offered something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, and let's dive into the movies that made 2016 a memorable year for Indian cinema.
Bollywood Hits That Rocked
In 2016, Bollywood delivered some truly unforgettable movies. These films not only dominated the box office but also left a lasting impact on popular culture. Let's explore some of the biggest hits.
Dangal
Dangal is arguably one of the most significant Indian films of 2016. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, this biographical sports drama tells the inspiring story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters Geeta Phogat and Babita Kumari to become world-class wrestlers. Dangal is more than just a sports movie; it's a powerful narrative about breaking gender stereotypes, pursuing dreams against all odds, and the unwavering bond between a father and his daughters. Aamir Khan's portrayal of Mahavir Singh Phogat was widely acclaimed, and the performances of Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra as Geeta and Babita were equally impressive. The film's emotional depth, combined with its thrilling wrestling sequences, made it a massive hit with audiences of all ages. Dangal's success wasn't limited to India; it also resonated with international audiences, particularly in China, where it became one of the highest-grossing foreign films. The film's universal themes of perseverance and family values transcended cultural boundaries, making it a global phenomenon. The impact of Dangal extended beyond the box office, inspiring countless young girls in India to take up wrestling and other sports. It sparked a national conversation about gender equality and the importance of supporting women in achieving their dreams. The film's legacy continues to inspire and empower, making it a timeless classic in Indian cinema. The meticulous attention to detail in recreating the wrestling matches and the authentic portrayal of rural Haryana added to the film's realism and appeal. The music by Pritam was also a major highlight, with songs like "Haanikaarak Bapu" and "Dangal" becoming anthems of determination and empowerment. Dangal is not just a movie; it's a cultural milestone that celebrates the spirit of resilience and the power of dreams.
Sultan
Another blockbuster that dominated the box office in 2016 was Sultan. Starring Salman Khan and Anushka Sharma, this sports drama revolves around Sultan Ali Khan, a former wrestling champion who attempts to revive his career while also dealing with personal struggles. Sultan is a classic underdog story that resonates with audiences due to its themes of redemption, love, and perseverance. Salman Khan's portrayal of Sultan was a departure from his usual larger-than-life persona, showcasing his ability to portray vulnerability and emotional depth. Anushka Sharma's performance as Aarfa, a strong and independent wrestler, was equally commendable. The film's wrestling sequences were choreographed with precision, adding to the authenticity of the story. Sultan explores the sacrifices and challenges faced by athletes in their pursuit of excellence, highlighting the physical and emotional toll that sports can take. The film also touches upon the importance of family and relationships in overcoming adversity. The music by Vishal-Shekhar was a major hit, with songs like "Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai" and "Jag Ghoomeya" becoming chart-toppers. Sultan is a complete entertainer that combines action, drama, romance, and music, making it a perfect example of a Bollywood blockbuster. The film's success can also be attributed to its strong emotional core, which resonated with audiences on a personal level. Sultan is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of cinema to inspire and entertain. The film's message of never giving up on your dreams, no matter how difficult the circumstances, is a timeless one that continues to resonate with audiences today. The camaraderie between Salman Khan and Anushka Sharma added to the film's charm, making it a memorable cinematic experience.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
For those who love romantic dramas, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil was a must-watch in 2016. Directed by Karan Johar, this film explores the complexities of love, friendship, and heartbreak. Starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is a visually stunning and emotionally charged film that delves into the nuances of unrequited love. Ranbir Kapoor's portrayal of Ayan, a young man struggling with his feelings for his best friend, was widely praised for its vulnerability and depth. Anushka Sharma's performance as Alizeh, a free-spirited and independent woman, was equally impressive. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's cameo as Saba, a poet who captivates Ayan with her wisdom and beauty, added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the film. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is a celebration of love in all its forms, whether it's romantic love, platonic love, or self-love. The film's dialogues are witty and insightful, capturing the essence of modern relationships. The music by Pritam was a major highlight, with songs like "Channa Mereya" and "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" becoming anthems of heartbreak and longing. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is a visually stunning film, with breathtaking locations and exquisite costumes that add to its overall appeal. The film's exploration of complex emotions and relationships resonated with audiences, making it a box office success. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is a testament to Karan Johar's ability to create films that are both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The film's message of embracing love in all its forms, even if it's unrequited, is a powerful one that continues to resonate with audiences today. The chemistry between Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma was a major highlight, making it a memorable cinematic experience.
Regional Cinema Gems
2016 wasn't just about Bollywood; regional cinema also produced some outstanding films that deserve recognition. These movies showcased the rich diversity and storytelling prowess of Indian filmmakers.
Sairat (Marathi)
Sairat is a Marathi-language romantic tragedy directed by Nagraj Manjule. This film tells the story of two young lovers from different castes who face societal opposition and violence. Sairat is a powerful and poignant film that tackles the sensitive issue of caste discrimination in India. The film's realistic portrayal of rural Maharashtra and its authentic characters resonated with audiences, making it a critical and commercial success. Rinku Rajguru and Akash Thosar, who made their acting debut with Sairat, delivered outstanding performances, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of their characters. The film's music by Ajay-Atul was a major highlight, with songs like "Zingaat" becoming a national sensation. Sairat is a groundbreaking film that challenged conventional Bollywood norms and paved the way for more regional films to gain national recognition. The film's success can be attributed to its honest and unflinching portrayal of social realities, which resonated with audiences on a deep emotional level. Sairat is a testament to the power of cinema to raise awareness about important social issues and inspire change. The film's message of love transcending caste and societal barriers is a powerful one that continues to resonate with audiences today. The film's raw and realistic storytelling made it a memorable cinematic experience.
Thithi (Kannada)
Thithi is a Kannada-language comedy-drama film written and directed by Raam Reddy. This film follows the lives of three generations of men in a rural village in Karnataka after the death of the oldest member of their family. Thithi is a quirky and heartwarming film that celebrates the simple joys of life. The film's authentic portrayal of rural Indian life and its eccentric characters made it a critical and commercial success. The film's non-professional actors delivered natural and believable performances, adding to its realism. Thithi is a film that reminds us to cherish the present moment and appreciate the bonds of family. The film's humor is subtle and understated, making it a delightful and engaging watch. Thithi is a testament to the power of independent cinema to tell unique and compelling stories. The film's success can be attributed to its originality and its ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. Thithi is a film that stays with you long after you've watched it, reminding you of the importance of family, community, and the simple joys of life. The film's unconventional storytelling and its heartwarming message made it a memorable cinematic experience.
Other Notable Mentions
Apart from the blockbusters and regional hits, several other Indian movies in 2016 made a mark with their unique storylines and performances. Here are a few more films that deserve a mention:
- Pink (Hindi): A social thriller that addresses the issue of consent and women's rights.
- Neerja (Hindi): A biographical thriller based on the life of Neerja Bhanot, a flight attendant who sacrificed her life to save passengers from terrorists.
- Udta Punjab (Hindi): A crime drama that explores the issue of drug abuse in Punjab.
Conclusion
2016 was indeed a remarkable year for Indian cinema. From Bollywood blockbusters to regional gems, the films released that year offered a diverse range of stories and performances that entertained and inspired audiences. Whether it was the inspiring tale of Dangal, the romantic drama of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, or the social commentary of Sairat, each film left a lasting impact on the Indian film industry. So, here's to celebrating the Indian movies of 2016 and the talented filmmakers and actors who brought these stories to life. What are your favorite movies from 2016? Share your thoughts in the comments below!