What’s the best way to learn about a culture?
Movies can provide a welcome distraction from the pressures of everyday life.
Many Hindi biographical films have been made over the years, and these movies remain popular today. Some are so renowned that they seem more like legends than real life stories.
So if you want to get an insight into what life in India is like, then here are 19 best Bollywood biography movies of all time.
Table of Contents
19 Best Bollywood Biography Movies of All Time
1. Dangal
- Cast: Aamir Khan, Sakshi Tanwar, Fatima Sana Shaikh
- Director: Nitesh Tiwari
Dangal is an inspiring sports drama based on the true story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters Geeta and Babita. Faced with societal norms and gender biases, Mahavir trains his daughters to become world-class wrestlers. Aamir Khan delivers a powerful performance as Mahavir, showcasing the struggles, triumphs, and unwavering determination of a father who dreams big for his daughters. With stellar performances, heartfelt emotions, and gripping wrestling sequences, Dangal serves as an uplifting tale of resilience, empowerment, and the strength of familial bonds.
2. Sardar Udham
- Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Banita Sandhu
- Director: Shoojit Sircar
Sardar Udham is a historical drama based on the life of revolutionary Udham Singh. Vicky Kaushal portrays the titular character, Udham Singh, who seeks justice for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, the film beautifully captures Udham Singh’s journey as he transforms into a fearless freedom fighter. With its stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, and poignant performances, Sardar Udham pays tribute to the courage and sacrifices made by those who fought for India’s independence, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
3. Super 30
- Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Mrunal Thakur
- Director: Vikas Bahl
Super 30 is an inspiring biographical drama based on the life of mathematician Anand Kumar. Hrithik Roshan portrays Anand Kumar, who runs the Super 30 program, coaching underprivileged students for the highly competitive IIT entrance exams. Directed by Vikas Bahl, the film delves into Anand Kumar’s struggles, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives. With Hrithik Roshan’s compelling performance, a heartfelt narrative, and uplifting moments, Super 30 showcases the triumph of hope, hard work, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.
4. Sanju (2018)
- Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Vicky Kaushal
- Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Sanju is a gripping biographical drama based on the controversial life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt. Ranbir Kapoor delivers a stellar performance as Sanjay Dutt, portraying his tumultuous journey filled with highs, lows, and personal battles. The movie was directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film explores Sanjay Dutt’s relationships, struggles with substance abuse, and eventual redemption. With its engaging storytelling, nuanced performances, and emotional depth, Sanju offers a captivating insight into the complexities of fame, the human spirit, and the power of second chances.
5. Thackeray (2019)
- Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Amrita Rao
- Director: Abhijit Panse
Thackeray, a biographical drama about the life of Bal Thackeray—the founder of the Shiv Sena political party. Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a captivating performance as Bal Thackeray, showcasing his rise to power, charismatic personality, and controversial ideologies. The movie was directed by Abhijit Panse, the film offers an intriguing exploration of Thackeray’s journey as a staunch advocate for the rights of the Marathi-speaking community. With its powerful storytelling, strong performances, and thought-provoking narrative, Thackeray sheds light on the complexities of politics, regional identity, and the impact of influential leaders.
6. Hawaizaada (2015)
- Cast: Ayushmann Khurrana, Mithun Chakraborty, Pallavi Sharda
- Director: Vibhu Puri
Hawaizaada is a period drama inspired by the life of Shivkar Bapuji Talpade, an Indian scientist and inventor. Ayushmann Khurrana portrays Talpade, a talented but unrecognized individual who strives to build an aircraft in colonial India. Directed by Vibhu Puri, the film explores Talpade’s determination, love for science, and his struggles against societal conventions. With its visually enchanting portrayal of the past, heartfelt performances, and an inspiring narrative, Hawaizaada celebrates the spirit of innovation, the pursuit of dreams, and the triumph of human ingenuity.
7. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
- Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Sonam Kapoor
- Director: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is an awe-inspiring biographical sports drama based on the life of legendary Indian athlete Milkha Singh, also known as the Flying Sikh. Farhan Akhtar delivers a mesmerizing performance as Milkha Singh, depicting his journey from a young boy who witnessed the horrors of partition to becoming an international sports icon. Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, the film beautifully captures the spirit of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. With its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and exhilarating sports sequences, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of self-belief.
8. Shahid
- Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub
- Director: Hansal Mehta
Shahid is a biopic that chronicles the life of human rights activist Shahid Azmi. Rajkummar Rao delivers a riveting performance as Shahid, highlighting his journey from a young boy affected by communal violence to becoming a voice for justice and marginalized communities. Directed by Hansal Mehta, the film delves into Shahid’s struggles, dedication to upholding the truth, and his ultimate sacrifice. Shahid is a powerfully moving film that explores issues of justice, the complex realities of our legal system and how these impact individuals.
9. PM Narendra Modi (2019)
- Cast: Vivek Oberoi, Boman Irani
- Director: Omung Kumar
The biographical film PM Narendra Modi chronicles the life and political career of India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. Vivek Oberoi delivers a powerful performance, capturing the essence of Modi’s persona, resilience, and leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a movie about the life of India’s most influential leader. It traces his humble beginnings, rise through ranks, and challenges faced along way to becoming PM.
10. Kesari (2019)
- Cast: Akshay Kumar, Parineeti Chopra
- Director: Anurag Singh
Kesari is a historical war drama based on the Battle of Saragarhi, a significant event in Indian military history. Akshay Kumar portrays Havildar Ishar Singh, who leads a small group of Sikh soldiers against an overwhelming enemy force. Anurag Singh directed the movie, which reflects the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers defending their homeland. With breathtaking battle sequences, powerful performances, and an emotionally charged narrative, Kesari pays tribute to the courage and valor of the soldiers, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
11. Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019)
- Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Yami Gautam, Paresh Rawal
- Director: Aditya Dhar
Uri: The Surgical Strike is a gripping war drama based on true events surrounding the surgical strike conducted by the Indian Army in 2016. Vicky Kaushal delivers a power-packed performance as Major Vihaan Singh Shergill, leading a team of brave soldiers on a covert mission to avenge a terrorist attack. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film captures the intensity, strategy, and sacrifices made by the Indian Army. With its realistic portrayal of military operations, strong performances, and patriotic spirit, Uri: The Surgical Strike stands as a tribute to the unwavering determination and courage of the armed forces.
12. Paan Singh Tomar
- Cast: Irrfan Khan, Mahie Gill
- Director: Tigmanshu Dhulia
Paan Singh Tomar is a biographical drama inspired by the life of athlete-turned-dacoit Paan Singh Tomar. Irrfan Khan delivers a stellar performance as Tomar, showcasing his journey from a national-level athlete to a feared rebel. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, the film explores Tomar’s struggle against societal injustice, his transformation, and his complex relationships. With its compelling narrative, brilliant performances, and a poignant exploration of the human spirit, Paan Singh Tomar offers a thought-provoking portrayal of a man caught between circumstances and his quest for justice.
13. Shershaah
- Cast: Sidharth Malhotra, Kiara Advani
- Director: Vishnuvardhan
Shershaah is a biographical war drama based on the life of Captain Vikram Batra, a brave Indian Army officer who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Kargil War. Sidharth Malhotra delivers a powerful performance as Captain Vikram Batra, highlighting his bravery, leadership, and selfless spirit. Directed by Vishnuvardhan, the film depicts the intense battles, personal sacrifices, and the emotional journey of a true hero. With its realistic portrayal of war, heartfelt performances, and a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Captain Batra, Shershaah stands as a testament to the valor and patriotism of the Indian Army.
14. The Accidental Prime Minister (2019)
- Cast: Anupam Kher, Akshaye Khanna
- Director: Vijay Ratnakar Gutte
The Accidental Prime Minister is a political drama based on the memoir of Manmohan Singh, who was India’s prime minister from 2004 to 2014. Anupam Kher delivers a captivating performance as Manmohan Singh, highlighting the challenges, conflicts, and complexities faced by the accidental prime minister during his tenure. Vijay Ratnakar Gutte’s film gives viewers an up-close look at the role of media and power dynamics in shaping Indian politics. The Accidental Prime Minister is an insightful narrative of contemporary politics, with strong performances and a nuanced exploration of governance.
15. Soorma
- Cast: Diljit Dosanjh, Taapsee Pannu
- Director: Shaad Ali
Soorma is an inspiring biographical sports drama based on the life of field hockey player Sandeep Singh. Diljit Dosanjh portrays Sandeep Singh, depicting his journey from a young aspiring player to a comeback after a life-altering incident. Directed by Shaad Ali, the film captures Sandeep Singh’s determination, resilience, and love for the sport. With its heartfelt storytelling, powerful performances, and gripping sports sequences, Soorma celebrates the triumph of the human spirit, the pursuit of dreams, and the power of self-belief.
16. Sardar (1993)
- Cast: Paresh Rawal, Annu Kapoor
- Director: Ketan Mehta
Sardar is an epic biographical drama that chronicles the life of Vallabhbhai Patel, one of India’s greatest patriots and first Deputy Prime Minister. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s political acumen and leadership abilities are on full display in Paresh Rawal’s remarkable performance. Directed by Ketan Mehta, the film offers an insightful portrayal of Patel’s role in integrating the princely states into the newly formed India. With its powerful narrative, strong performances, and historical significance, Sardar pays tribute to a visionary leader who played a crucial role in shaping modern India.
17. Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi (2019)
- Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Ankita Lokhande
- Director: Kangana Ranaut, Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi
Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi is a historical drama based on the life of Rani Laxmi Bai, the iconic queen of Jhansi and a prominent figure in India’s fight against British colonization. Kangana Ranaut portrays Rani Laxmi Bai, depicting her fearless spirit, valiance, and leadership during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. Directed by Kangana Ranaut and Radha Krishna Jagarlamudi, the film captures the struggles, sacrifices, and indomitable courage of Rani Laxmi Bai. With its grandeur, powerful performances, and a tribute to the warrior queen, Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi celebrates the spirit of freedom, bravery, and female empowerment.
18. M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story
- Cast: Sushant Singh Rajput, Kiara Advani
- Director: Neeraj Pandey
M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story is a sports drama based on the life of former cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Sushant Singh Rajput gives a riveting performance as Dhoni, following his journey from childhood to becoming one of India’s most celebrated cricketing icons. Neeraj Pandey’s film portrays Dhoni as a hardworking and ambitious athlete whose talent brought him success in the world of cricket. With its engaging storytelling, authentic cricket sequences, and an exploration of Dhoni’s personal and professional life, M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story offers an inspiring tale of dreams, determination, and success.
19. Manto
- Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Rasika Dugal
- Director: Nandita Das
Manto is a biographical drama based on the life of celebrated Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto. Nawazuddin Siddiqui portrays Manto, highlighting his literary genius, his struggle against societal norms, and his unflinching portrayal of reality. Nandita Das directed the film, which explores Manto’s creative process and how it was influenced by his turbulent personal life. With its thought-provoking narrative, powerful performances, and exploration of freedom of expression, Manto pays homage to an influential literary figure and sheds light on the social and political landscape of the time.
Best Bollywood Biography Movies of All Time: FAQs
Q: What are the best Hindi biography movies of all time?
Ans: Some of the best Hindi biography movies of all time include “Dangal,” “Sardar Udham,” “Super 30,” “Sanju (2018),” “Bhaag Milkha Bhaag,” “Shahid,” “PM Narendra Modi (2019),” and “Kesari (2019),” among others.
Q: What makes a biography movie stand out?
Ans: A compelling biography movie stands out by effectively portraying the life and journey of its subject. It should feature strong performances, a well-crafted screenplay, and accurate historical representation. A great biography movie resonates with the audience, leaving a lasting impact and capturing the essence of the individual’s story.
Q: Are all the events in biography movies based on real-life incidents?
Ans: Yes, biography movies are typically based on real-life incidents and individuals. However, filmmakers may take creative liberties in certain aspects to enhance storytelling or depict certain events.
Q: Are there any recent Hindi biography movies worth watching?
Ans: Yes, there have been several notable Hindi biography movies in recent years. Films like “Sardar Udham,” “Super 30,” “Sanju (2018),” and “PM Narendra Modi (2019)” have garnered critical acclaim and have been appreciated by audiences for their engaging narratives and stellar performances.
Q: Can biography movies inspire and educate viewers?
Ans: Absolutely! Biography movies have the potential to inspire and educate viewers by showcasing the extraordinary lives of individuals who have made significant contributions or overcome remarkable challenges. These movies inspire us to pursue our dreams and make a positive impact in others’ lives.
