When we think of Bollywood, we often picture big-budget blockbusters, star-studded casts, and chart-topping music. However, there is another side to the Hindi film industry that doesn’t always make it to the limelight — best underrated Bollywood movies that deliver powerful storytelling, unforgettable performances, and impactful messages.
These hidden gems may not have broken box office records, but they won the hearts of those who watched them. Whether you’re a film buff or someone looking to explore something beyond the mainstream, these movies deserve a spot on your watchlist.
In this blog, we will explore the top 5 best underrated Bollywood films that flew under the radar but left a lasting impression.
1. Masaan (2015)
Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
Genre: Drama
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Why It’s Underrated:
Masaan is a hauntingly beautiful film that intertwines two parallel stories set in the ghats of Varanasi. Despite receiving international acclaim and even winning awards at the Cannes Film Festival, the movie didn’t receive the commercial success it truly deserved in India.
What Makes It Special:
- Deep emotional storytelling with minimal melodrama
- Remarkable performances by Richa Chadha, Vicky Kaushal, and Sanjay Mishra
- A moving soundtrack composed by Indian Ocean
- Themes of caste, love, loss, and redemption
2. Udaan (2010)
Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
Genre: Coming-of-age Drama
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Why It’s Underrated:
Despite critical acclaim and several Filmfare awards, Udaan didn’t receive the audience it deserved during its release. It later gained a cult following for its raw and emotional storytelling.
What Makes It Special:
- A relatable tale of a teenager’s struggle against an abusive parent
- Stunning performance by Rajat Barmecha and Ronit Roy
- Poetic cinematography and a soulful background score
- A powerful message about following your passion and breaking free
3. The Lunchbox (2013)
Director: Ritesh Batra
Genre: Romance/Drama
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Why It’s Underrated:
Though The Lunchbox gained international popularity and even had Oscar buzz, many Indian audiences missed its release due to limited marketing and lack of star-driven promotions.
What Makes It Special:
- A touching story told through handwritten letters between two strangers
- Exceptional performances by Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui
- An unconventional love story with a realistic portrayal of urban loneliness
- Beautifully paced and layered screenplay
4. Titli (2014)
Director: Kanu Behl
Genre: Crime/Drama
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Why It’s Underrated:
Titli didn’t appeal to the masses due to its dark subject matter, but it remains one of the most realistic depictions of dysfunctional family life and societal pressure in modern India.
What Makes It Special:
- Gritty, unfiltered storytelling that feels disturbingly real
- An intense performance by debutant Shashank Arora
- Highlights issues like forced marriages, crime, and generational trauma
- A daring narrative style with a documentary-like feel
5. Mukti Bhawan (Hotel Salvation) (2016)
Director: Shubhashish Bhutiani
Genre: Drama
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Why It’s Underrated:
A beautifully philosophical film that quietly released with minimal marketing, Mukti Bhawan received high praise from international film festivals but remains largely unknown among Indian viewers.
What Makes It Special:
- Explores the relationship between a father who wants to die in Varanasi and his reluctant son
- Emotional yet humorous tone that never gets preachy
- Reflects on life, death, relationships, and spirituality with maturity
- Brilliant acting by Adil Hussain and Lalit Behl
Why You Should Watch Underrated Bollywood Movies
While commercial films entertain, underrated Bollywood films offer a deeper, richer experience. They often:
- Challenge societal norms
- Bring out the best in acting and direction
- Deliver unique and bold narratives
- Represent real issues with sensitivity and realism
- Offer a break from formulaic cinema
These are not your usual song-and-dance spectacles — they’re stories that stay with you long after the credits roll.
Final Thoughts
Bollywood is more than just glamour and masala. Beneath the big names and blockbuster hits lies a treasure trove of meaningful cinema waiting to be discovered. The top 5 best underrated Bollywood movies listed here are a great starting point if you want to experience Indian cinema at its raw, emotional, and thought-provoking best.
So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and dive into these cinematic masterpieces. You might just discover a new favorite.
Also read: How to Host a Movie Night Without a Streaming Subscription