The 30 Greatest Bollywood Sports Movies of All Time

Sports movies have a special place in Bollywood. They inspire, motivate and stir up patriotic feelings like no other genre. From cricket and hockey to boxing and wrestling, Bollywood has covered a wide range of sports in its films over the years.

In this epic blog post, we’ll count down the 30 absolute best sports films to come out of the Hindi film industry. Get ready for some serious nostalgia and inspiration as we revisit these incredible movies!

30. Freaky Ali (2016)

Freaky Ali is a quirky comedy starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Ali, an ex-gangster who discovers an unexpected talent for golf. Guided by an eccentric coach played by Arbaaz Khan, Ali goes from being a debt collector to a golf sensation. This lighthearted underdog story blends humor with the classic sports movie arc of a misfit discovering their hidden potential. While not a hardcore sports film, Freaky Ali earns a spot on this list for its unique premise and Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s endearing performance as the lovable lead character.

29. Lahore (2010)

Set against the backdrop of the India-Pakistan partition, Lahore follows an Indian kickboxer who goes to Lahore to take on the Pakistani champion. However, he discovers that his opponent is actually his childhood best friend. This poignant tale explores themes of friendship, patriotism, and the futility of war. Lahore may not be as well-known as other films on this list, but it deserves recognition for its powerful performances and moving story about how sports can both divide and unite people.

28. Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal (2007)

Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal is a fun, feel-good film about a South Asian community in England and their underdog football team. The movie stars John Abraham, Bipasha Basu, and Arshad Warsi and revolves around the team’s attempt to save their local football club. With vibrant music, a charming cast, and a focus on South Asian identity, Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal is an entertaining watch even if it follows a predictable sports movie formula. It captures the passion and spirit of football while celebrating diversity.

27. Awwal Number (1990)

One of the earlier cricket-themed Bollywood movies, Awwal Number stars Dev Anand as an aging cricketer seeking to prove himself one last time. The film follows his attempt to earn a spot on the Indian national team while also mentoring a young protégé. With a cast that includes Aamir Khan in one of his earliest roles, Awwal Number is a must-watch for fans of vintage Bollywood cinema. While it may not have the slick production values of more recent films, it makes up for it with its old-school charm and heartfelt performances.

26. Saat Kadam (2022)

Saat Kadam is a heartwarming film about a father-son duo united by their love for football. The movie follows their journey as they assemble a ragtag team to compete in a local tournament. Saat Kadam touches on intergenerational relationships, small-town dreams, and the power of sports to bring people together. Released directly on ZEE5, this sweet, understated film deserves more attention for its relatable characters and uplifting message about chasing your passion against all odds.

25. Mukkabaaz (2017)

Anurag Kashyap’s gritty boxing drama Mukkabaaz packs a powerful punch. It tells the story of a lower-caste boxer who falls in love with a mute girl, incurring the wrath of her uncle, a corrupt local boxing official. Mukkabaaz unflinchingly examines the politics of Indian sports along with issues of caste, corruption and social inequality. Vineet Kumar Singh delivers a knockout performance as the determined underdog boxer. With Kashyap’s raw, hard-hitting direction, Mukkabaaz is an important film that shows the grittier side of the sports world.

24. Budhia Singh – Born to Run (2016)

Budhia Singh – Born to Run is the incredible true story of Budhia Singh, a young boy from the slums of Odisha who became a marathon running sensation. The film follows the relationship between Budhia and his coach, played brilliantly by Manoj Bajpayee. It’s a moving tale of a child prodigy, the mentor who believed in him, and the controversy that engulfed them. Budhia Singh shines a light on the politics and exploitation that can sadly exist in the world of youth sports. It’s an eye-opening and ultimately inspirational film.

23. Rashmi Rocket (2021)

Rashmi Rocket stars Taapsee Pannu as a small-town girl who overcomes societal barriers to become a national-level runner. However, her victory is short-lived as she becomes embroiled in a gender testing controversy. Rashmi Rocket is a searing commentary on gender discrimination in sports and the toll it can take on female athletes. Pannu delivers a fierce performance as a woman who refuses to let anyone else define her. For its bold stance on a rarely discussed issue, Rashmi Rocket is an important addition to the sports movie genre.

22. Patiala House (2011)

Patiala House is a generation-spanning sports drama about a Sikh man in England who gives up his dream of playing cricket for England due to his father’s opposition. Years later, his son takes up the mantle to fulfill his father’s unfulfilled ambition. Patiala House explores the immigrant experience, familial expectations, and the way dreams can be passed down. Akshay Kumar delivers a restrained, mature performance as a man torn between tradition and his love for the game. Though lengthy, Patiala House is a poignant film about identity and chasing your dreams.

21. Saala Khadoos (2016)

Saala Khadoos (also released in Tamil as Irudhi Suttru) is a hard-hitting boxing drama starring R. Madhavan as a disgraced coach seeking redemption by training a fiery young female boxer. The film subverts the typical student-mentor relationship, with both characters starting off as fierce adversaries before developing a grudging respect for each other. Ritika Singh makes an impressive debut as the volatile but talented boxer. Saala Khadoos is a gripping character study that doesn’t pull its punches, literally or figuratively.

20. Soorma (2018)

Soorma is a biographical film about the incredible comeback of hockey player Sandeep Singh after a freak accident left him paralyzed. Diljit Dosanjh delivers a career-best performance as Singh, capturing his pain, determination, and unbreakable spirit. The film also stars Taapsee Pannu and Angad Bedi in pivotal roles. Soorma is an emotional, inspiring tale of a sportsman who fought his way back from rock bottom to become an icon of Indian hockey. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

19. Jhund (2022)

Nagraj Manjule’s Jhund stars Amitabh Bachchan as Vijay Barse, the real-life retired sports teacher who founded an NGO to help slum children find purpose through football. The film follows Barse as he puts together a ragtag team and helps them overcome their circumstances to become a formidable force. Jhund is a gritty, realistic portrayal of the power of sports to change lives. Bachchan delivers a understated but impactful performance as the compassionate coach. Jhund is a socially relevant film that scores a goal for its powerful message.

18. Iqbal (2005)

Iqbal is the heartwarming story of a deaf and mute boy from a small village who dreams of playing cricket for India. With the help of a washed-up, alcoholic former player turned coach, Iqbal overcomes his challenges to become a formidable bowler. The film is a touching tale of triumph against all odds, with cricket serving as a metaphor for Iqbal’s struggles and successes. Shreyas Talpade delivers a soulful performance as the determined Iqbal, with Naseeruddin Shah brilliant as his reluctant mentor. Iqbal is a feel-good film that hits all the right notes.

17. Saina (2021)

Saina is a biographical sports drama about the life of badminton champion Saina Nehwal. Parineeti Chopra stars as Nehwal, capturing her journey from a young girl in Haryana to becoming the world’s no. 1 badminton player. The film depicts the sacrifices, setbacks, and sheer determination that went into Nehwal’s success. Saina is an inspiring tale of a small-town girl who made it big in the world of sports through her hard work and never-say-die attitude. It’s a fitting tribute to one of India’s greatest sporting icons.

16. Lagaan (2001)

Ashutosh Gowariker’s Oscar-nominated epic Lagaan is a sweeping tale of a group of villagers in British India who challenge their British rulers to a game of cricket to escape oppressive taxes. Aamir Khan stars as the villager who assembles and trains the ragtag team. Lagaan masterfully blends sports, history, romance, and patriotism into a captivating cinematic experience. The climactic cricket match is a nail-biting affair that has you rooting for the underdogs. With its grand scale, AR Rahman’s rousing score, and powerful performances, Lagaan is a timeless classic.

15. Gold (2018)

Gold is a fictionalized retelling of India’s historic first gold medal as an independent nation at the 1948 Olympics. Akshay Kumar stars as the passionate team manager who puts together the first national hockey team. The film captures the challenges of building a team in the aftermath of partition and the pressure of performing on the world stage. Gold is a patriotic, entertaining sports drama that celebrates a milestone moment in India’s sporting history. It’s a glittering addition to the canon of hockey films in Bollywood.

14. Paan Singh Tomar (2012)

Paan Singh Tomar is the incredible true story of an Indian soldier and athlete who becomes a dacoit. Irrfan Khan delivers a tour de force performance in the titular role, transforming from an earnest young soldier to a disillusioned rebel. The film depicts Tomar’s journey from a national-level steeplechase champion to a life of crime, driven by circumstances and a corrupt system. Paan Singh Tomar is a gritty, unconventional sports film that shows the dark reality behind the glitzy façade of sports glory. It’s a must-watch for Irrfan Khan’s powerhouse performance alone.

13. Toofaan (2021)

Toofaan stars Farhan Akhtar as a streetfighter who transforms into a professional boxer with the help of a reclusive coach, played by Paresh Rawal. The film follows his journey of redemption as he battles his inner demons and external opponents in the ring. Toofaan is a gritty, intense sports drama that doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the boxing world. Akhtar undergoes a stunning physical transformation and delivers a knockout performance as the troubled but determined boxer. Toofaan packs a punch with its raw, realistic portrayal of the blood, sweat, and tears that go into making a champion.

12. Saand Ki Aankh (2019)

Saand Ki Aankh is the inspiring true story of Chandro and Prakashi Tomar, two elderly women from Uttar Pradesh who became champion sharpshooters in their 60s. Bhumi Pednekar and Taapsee Pannu deliver powerful performances as the Shooter Dadis, capturing their indomitable spirit and defiance of societal norms. The film is a heartwarming tale of two women who break stereotypes and prove that age is just a number when it comes to following your passion. Saand Ki Aankh hits the bullseye with its empowering message and brilliant lead performances.

11. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)

Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a biographical sports drama based on the life of legendary Indian sprinter Milkha Singh, also known as The Flying Sikh. Farhan Akhtar delivers a career-defining performance as Singh, capturing his journey from a traumatized young refugee to a world-class athlete. The film depicts Singh’s struggles, triumphs, and the demons he had to face from his past. With Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s deft direction and Prasoon Joshi’s stirring lyrics, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is an emotionally charged, inspiring tale of a man who ran his way into history and the hearts of a nation.

10. Kai Po Che! (2013)

Based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel The 3 Mistakes of My Life, Kai Po Che! follows three friends who start a cricket training academy in Ahmedabad. The film stars Sushant Singh Rajput, Rajkummar Rao, and Amit Sadh in career-launching performances. Kai Po Che! is a coming-of-age story that uses cricket as a backdrop to explore themes of friendship, love, politics, and communal tensions. It’s a poignant, emotionally resonant film that captures the dreams and dilemmas of small-town youth. Kai Po Che! hits it out of the park with its heartfelt storytelling and brilliant performances.

9. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992)

Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar is a cult classic that captures the essence of youth, rivalry, and the thrill of cycling. The film follows two estranged brothers who become rivals in an inter-collegiate cycling championship. Aamir Khan and Ayesha Jhulka lead a cast of fresh faces in this coming-of-age sports drama. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar is a nostalgic trip down memory lane, with its depiction of college life, young love, and the spirit of sportsmanship. The thrilling cycling sequences and the catchy soundtrack make it a timeless favorite.

8. Dangal (2016)

Dangal is a biographical sports drama based on the life of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters to become champion wrestlers. Aamir Khan delivers a powerhouse performance as the determined father who defies societal norms to coach his girls. The film depicts the real-life journey of Geeta and Babita Phogat, who overcame gender stereotypes to win India’s first medals in female wrestling. Dangal is an inspiring tale of a father’s dream and his daughters’ fight for glory. It’s a film that packs an emotional punch and celebrates the strength of women in sports.

7. Hippy (2022)

Hippy is a heartwarming film about a grandfather who rekindles his passion for hockey through his grandson. The film stars veteran actor Manoj Kumar in a comeback role, with Ranveer Singh playing his supportive grandson. Hippy is a nostalgic tale of three generations united by their love for the game. It’s a film that celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship across ages and the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. With its mix of humor, emotion, and hockey, Hippy scores a goal straight to the heart.

6. Irudhi Suttru (2016)

Irudhi Suttru (also released in Hindi as Saala Khadoos) is a gritty boxing drama about a disgraced coach who finds redemption through a young, fiery female boxer. R. Madhavan delivers a intense performance as the no-nonsense coach, with newcomer Ritika Singh holding her own as his headstrong protégé. The film depicts the harsh realities of the boxing world and the politics that can make or break careers. Irudhi Suttru is a hard-hitting, uncompromising sports drama that doesn’t pull its punches. It’s a film that will make you flinch and cheer in equal measure.

5. M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016)

M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story is a biographical sports drama based on the life of former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Sushant Singh Rajput delivers a pitch-perfect performance as Dhoni, capturing his quiet determination and cool demeanor. The film traces Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to one of the most successful captains in cricket history. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story is a fitting tribute to a cricketing legend and an inspiring tale for aspiring sportspersons everywhere.

4. Mary Kom (2014)

Mary Kom is a biographical sports film based on the life of the eponymous boxer, who overcame numerous challenges to become a six-time world champion and an Olympic medalist. Priyanka Chopra delivers a knockout performance as Mary Kom, transforming herself physically and emotionally for the role. The film depicts Mary’s struggles as a woman in a male-dominated sport, her fight against discrimination, and her unwavering determination to bring glory to her country. Mary Kom is a powerful, inspiring tale of a woman who punched above her weight and became a legend in the ring and beyond.

3. Iqbal (2005)

Iqbal is a heartwarming sports drama about a deaf and mute boy from a small village who dreams of playing cricket for India. With the help of a washed-up, alcoholic former cricketer turned coach, Iqbal defies his disability and societal expectations to become a bowling sensation. Shreyas Talpade delivers a soulful performance as the determined Iqbal, with Naseeruddin Shah brilliant as his reluctant mentor. Iqbal is a feel-good film that celebrates the triumph of the underdog and the power of passion. It’s a film that will make you smile, cry, and cheer for the indomitable human spirit.

2. Chak De! India (2007)

Chak De! India is a sports drama that follows the journey of a disgraced former men’s hockey captain who seeks redemption by coaching the underdog Indian women’s national hockey team. Shah Rukh Khan delivers one of his finest performances as the stern coach Kabir Khan, who battles skepticism and sexism to mold a rag-tag group of girls into a champion team. The film is a rousing celebration of women’s empowerment, team spirit, and national pride. With its iconic title track and goosebump-inducing climax, Chak De! India is a sports classic that will make you stand up and cheer.

1. Lagaan (2001)

Lagaan is a period sports drama that tells the tale of a group of villagers in British India who challenge their British rulers to a game of cricket to escape oppressive taxes. Aamir Khan stars as the young farmer Bhuvan, who assembles and trains a ragtag team of villagers to take on the might of the British. The film is a masterful blend of sports, history, romance, and patriotism, with cricket serving as a metaphor for the fight against colonialism. With its epic scale, memorable characters, AR Rahman’s rousing score, and a nail-biting climax, Lagaan is a cinematic masterpiece that transcends the sports genre to become an all-time classic.

These 30 films represent the best of Bollywood sports cinema, showcasing the passion, determination, and indomitable spirit of Indian athletes and sportspersons. From cricket and hockey to boxing and athletics, these movies cover a wide range of sports and tell inspiring stories of triumph against all odds. Whether you’re a sports fan or just love a good underdog story, these films will make you laugh, cry, and cheer. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and let these incredible movies transport you to a world where dreams come true and heroes are born on the playing field.

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