34 Must Watch and Best 90s Bollywood Movies

Sutithi Munshi
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Say Hello, to the 90s Bollywood movies.

The 1990s was truly a fantastic time for movies, songs, and pop culture. The ’90s was a golden era, especially for Bollywood movies.

Bollywood produced and gave us the best movies during the ’90s. They have left an impact on us till today.

There are many pop culture references, memes, and comebacks linked to these movies. Most of us have grown up watching these movies on our TV channels.

They have been our Sunday night entertainment and have shaped our memories.

Film Rolls
By Bill Smith/Flickr @All Rights Reserved

We bring 34 of the best 90s Bollywood movies for you with this article.

What are the best 90’s Bollywood Movies?

1. Andaaz Apna Apna (1994)

Aamir Khan Movies | Andaz Apna Apna | Daulat Ki Jung | Deewana Mujh Sa Nahin |3 Movies in 1|Showreel

This picture remains a cult classic comedy to date. It redefines Bollywood’s approach to comedy. The main characters, Amar and Prem, played by Aamir Khan and Salman Khan, respectively, follow their comedic journey.

They fall in love with the characters of Raveena Tandon and Karishma Kapoor.

Add the famous Crime master Gogo and Teja into the mixture, and you have got a series of comedic errors creating history in 90s Bollywood movies.

2. Haseena Maan Jayegi (1999)

This classic comedy starring Govinda and Karisma Kapoor, along with Sanjay Dutt’s great performance is a must-watch.

Suppose we tally all of David Dhawan’s movies, then this could arguably be said as David Dhawan’s best film to date. The perfect humor points are what make this movie a banger.

The silly yet entertaining hilarity of the plot and its execution by the actors make it one of the funniest films.

3. Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)

Koi Ladki Hai Song | Dil To Pagal Hai | Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit, Karisma Kapoor | Lata, Udit

This film took everyone by storm. The on-screen chemistry of Madhuri Dixit and Shah Rukh Khan, might be one of the best examples of a classic love triangle created by Yash Chopra.

The story revolves around Rahul (Naam toh suna hi Hoga), who has been friends with Nisha, played by Karishma Kapoor, but falls in love with Pooja. This movie also gave us some amazing songs, such as Chak Dhoom Dhoom.

 4. Rangeela (1995)

Rangeela Full Songs (Audio Jukebox) - Aamir, Urmila, Jackie, AR Rahman

This movie gave us some bangers when it comes to songs. But we need to pause for a moment and talk about how stunning Urmila performs in the role of Mili.

Mili has the big Mumbai dream to be a great actress in Bollywood cinema. But she is having a hard time finding her big break.

Eventually, she gets her big break, but she forgets her old friend in the grand scheme of things. As fame gets to her, she feels her modest old friend (Aamir Khan), who is in love with her, is not in her league.

5. Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (1994)

This movie once again stars King Khan in the lead role. Many also consider that this might have been his best performance in Bollywood.

The story is about Sunil, who is a regular college-going kid. He falls hopelessly in love with his band’s lead singer.

6. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992)

https://youtu.be/sP2w3vaTD8Q

This sport-centric romance film stars Aamir Khan in pivotal roads. The central plot of the film revolves around a cycling competition. It also has mushy adolescent love stories that’ll make your heart swoon.

The famous romance anthem of the 90s, Pehla Nasha Pehla Khumar, was a part of this movie’s soundtrack.

7. Hero No. 1 (1997)

The best example of a Romantic comedy

A comedy of David Dhawan’s that checks all the funny bones. The Govinda and Karisma Kapoor starring movie is pure masala entertainment.

The story follows as a millionaire takes the role of a servant to set an impression on his beloved’s family.

This was a great 90s Bollywood movie.

8. Virasat (1997)

This movie is about the typical prodigal son who comes back to his village. In a twist of circumstances, he marries the village belle.

Played by Anil Kapoor in the male lead, the film truly shines for the strong performances of Tabu and Pooja Batra. A Priyadarshan direction.

An out-of-the-track 90s Bollywood movie with strong female characters.

9. Satya (1998)

This is Manoj Bajpayee’s first lead role. Known for the famous lines “Mumbai ka King Kaun? Bhiku Mhatre.”

This movie takes you into the intricacy of organized crime—the complexities of the Mumbai Underworld and how deep-rooted its ties are.

10. Khalnayak (1993)

A convicted and on the run escaped from police. The story is about his escape and the police’s attempted capture of the terrorist criminal. The movie stars Sanjay Dutt as Ballu in the lead role.

The police roles are filled by Inspector Ram, played by Jackie Shroff. Ganga is his girlfriend, played by Madhuri Dixit.

Sanjay Dutt does an exemplary performance in this film. When talking about his best performances, this film always comes top.

11. Darr (1993)

This might be one of those films where Shah Rukh Khan plays a negative role. He plays the role of a psychopath who is in love with Kiran, played by Juhi Chawla.

Sunny Deol play’s the role of Chawla’s boyfriend and later husband, who wants to protect her to all extents.

This is one of the moments in 90s Bollywood movies that has you on the edge of your seat.

12. Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999)

https://youtu.be/8LPH9F2vWpY

This was the breaking point in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s career. Apart from the show-stopping soundtrack of this film, musical masterpieces such as the title track, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, the dance number of Nimboora Nimboora is magic.

The cinematography for this film shines through; the vivid color palette and architectural focused shots make it a visual striker.

Starring Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the role of Nandini with Salman Khan as Sameer. Salman Khan falls in love with Nandini, Aishwarya’s character. They fall in love with each other when Sameer comes to live with their family, who eventually reciprocates the same.

However, circumstances force them to break ties with ongoing family drama. Nandini is now married to Vanraj, played by Ajay Devgan.

Vanraj brings Nandini to Europe to reunite her with Sameer in a strange series of events until she starts to fall in love with her husband.

12. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)

Kuch Kuch Hota Hai Full Video - Title Track|Shahrukh Khan,Kajol,Rani Mukerji|Alka Yagnik

It is hard to miss this 90s Bollywood movie considering its cultural impact. It stays relevant even with Gen Z. When talking about 90s Bollywood love triangles, this takes the prize home.

A cult classic love triangle that spans over eight years, even with the third person dying before the film even begins.

With this film, Karan Johar’s directorial debut might have been the biggest roar of 90s Bollywood.

Anjali, played by Kajol, is best friends with Rahul, Shah Rukh Khan. Rahul falls in love with the NRI return Tina, whose character is played by Rani Mukherji. A classic tale of unreciprocated love, Rahul and Tina get married, and a heartbroken Anjali disappears.

The story, however, starts eight years later, with Anjali (not Kajol), Tina, and Rahul’s 8-year-old daughter, who tries to reunite Anjali and Rahul according to her mother’s last wish.

13. Vaastav: The Reality (1999)

The film is based on the real-life underworld Mumbai don, Chota Rajan. With Sanjay Dutt in the main role, Raghu runs a pav bhaji shop with his friend. But a chance day turns his world upside down.

It shows the ugly side of the criminal world as Raghu turns into a Mumbai underworld gangster.

14. Sarfarosh (1999)

Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya | Aamir Khan | Sonali Bendre | Sarfarosh Movie | Jagjit Singh | 90

This movie is filled with the best ghazals and music in general. The soulful Hosh walon ko Khabar kya in Jagjit Singh’s voice is enough to transcend you.

It stars Aamir Khan in the pivotal role of an ACP who is fighting against the ruthless. Ajay Singh Rathod is an honest cop fighting against the dark dealings of illegal arms dealerships in the country.

15. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)

Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge Video Jukebox | Full Song | Jatin-Lalit | Shah Rukh Khan | Kajol | DDLJ

The epic love saga between Raj and Simran is still a goal in today’s world. Suppose you want to relieve all the adolescent dreams you had about love. You have to go back and rewatch this movie.

The entire palat reference, meeting a stranger in Europe and fleeing to be with your beloved, started from this movie.

16. Raja Hindustani (1996)

Tere Ishq Mein Naachenge | Raja Hindustani | Aamir Khan | Karisma Kapoor | Kumar Sanu |Sad Love Song

A rich girl meets a poor taxi driver, your basic people from different worlds love story. Along with a fantastic soundtrack, Raja and Aarti go through leaps and bounds to redefine love in this film.

17. Lamhe (1991)

When venturing into a taboo topic, this movie was way ahead of its time.

The Anil Kapoor-Sridevi duo movie by Yash Chopra attracted a lot of attraction. Although looked down upon, the wide age gap was gracefully crafted by Mr. Chopra.

18. Baazigar (1993)

Baazigar O Baazigar-HD VIDEO SONG | #ShahrukhKhan & Kajol | Baazigar | 90

It is safe to say that Shah Rukh Khan started the hype of anti-hero roles with a famous dialogue from this film. Haar ke jitne vaale ko hi Baazigar kehte hai. This remains one of the most iconic dialogues in 90s Bollywood film history.

The terrace railing has changed its vision for us ever since Shilpa Shetty’s death scene.

19. Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)

Hum Aapke Hain Koun - Title Song - Salman Khan & Madhuri Dixit - Classic Romantic Song

You know a film will be a perfect family film with a song every 10 minutes into the movie. After all, it is Sooraj Barjatya’s film.

Prem and Nisha’s love story filled with playful banters, teasing, and pining makes this iconic romantic comedy.

20. Pardes (1997)

https://youtu.be/huB6gKmF0NA

This movie was made when India hit 50 years of independence. Shah Rukh plays an underdog trying to woo and win over the beautiful Ganga. The song I love my India from this movie instantly took over.

The music for this film is beautiful and makes a mark.

21. Border (1997)

https://youtu.be/M1WbjDjzSLE

This is based on the Indo-Pak war in 1971. This movie can easily be called the best Bollywood war film to date in Indian cinema. The movie had the moving patriotic song, “Sandese aate hain.

The film had a multi-star cast, including faces like Sunny Deol, Sunil Shetty, and Akshaye Khanna.

22. Mr. & Mrs. Khiladi (1997)

This movie keeps you rolling on the floor; kudos to Akshay Kumar’s perfect comedic timing.

The movie revolves around him earning 1 lakh rupees to win over his wife, the amazing Juhi Chawla. The entire film is a series of perfectly timed comedic moments.

23. Karan Arjun (1995)

Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan in a sibling role. A pair we could have never thought of.

The bond of family, brotherhood, and reincarnation spices up this movie. It also gifts us another iconic dialogue from Rakhee, who plays the role of the mother for these boys. Mere Karan Arjun Ayenge.

24. Aashiqui (1990)

Dheere Dheere Se Meri Zindagi Mein Aana Full Video Song | Aashiqui | Kumar Sanu, Anuradha Paudwal

The massive musical hit by Mahesh Bhatt from the ’90s is a shapeshifter. The banging Dheere Dheere se Meri Zindagi Mai Aana is from the soundtrack of the movie. Nadeem-Shravan is the ace of this movie, fondly remembered by music lovers.

25. Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999)

Mhare Hiwada Mein - Salman, Sonali, Saif, Karishma, Tabu, Mohnish - Hum Saath Saath Hain

This multicast Rajshri film is a perfect family drama. A great musical drama that keeps you entertained for three hours—a great movie to watch on a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Salman Khan, Sonali Bendre, Tabu, Mohsin Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Karisma Kapoor were all-star hit cast in the leading roles. This is a recipe for entertainment.

26. Ghayal (1990)

This movie has Sunny Deol starrer directed movie by Rajkumar Santoshi. This film made a turning point in Deo’s character and makes him such a loved actor today.

He plays the man who is wronged because of the corrupt system. And is fighting for the sake of his family.

27. Kaun (1999)

This movie gives you shivers now every time your door rings—a classic 90s thriller.

It stars the amazing Urmila Matondkar, who gives a fantastic performance. A 90’s Bollywood films movie list could not be complete without this being in the list.

28. 1942: A Love Story (1994)

Ek Ladki ko dekha - Full Video HD | 1942 A love story | Anil Kapoor | Manisha Koirala

This film is a musical masterpiece. And the last movie had RD Burman as the composer in it.

This is a great watch for all romantic enthusiasts in the room. The movie is directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra and is set during India’s pre-independence.

This is a memorable 90s Bollywood movie. Anil Kapoor does a fantastic performance as the lead male. The romantic tune of Ek Ladki Ko Dekha also comes from the soundtrack of this movie.

29. Dil Se.. (1998)

Jiya Jale (HD) | Dil Se | #ShahrukhKhan, Preity Zinta | #LataMangeshkar

Mani Ratnam’s Dil Se is a timeless piece. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, who plays the role of an AIR program executive and the mysterious character of Manisha Koirala.

AR Rahman’s music shines through in this movie. Chaiyya Chaiyya, Jiya Jale, and Dil Se Re are amazing songs from the soundtrack.

Songs from this movie are sung in after-parties, and school antakshari’s even today, a decade later.

30. Sangharsh (1999)

This film stars Akshay Kumar and Priety Zinta in the lead roles. However, the character and role that stays fresh in minds and most relevant from this film are Asutosh Rana.

The story is about a psychopath who believes in the sacrifice of little kids. Asutosh Rana, who plays the role of “Lajja Shankar Pandey,” gives such a terrific performance the horror stays in your bones.

31. Raja Babu (1994)

This is another classic comedy with Govinda and Karisma Kapoor in the lead roles.

This is a movie that will take you down a road of nostalgia. It is a train of memories for everything that the 90s were known for.

32. Damini – Lightning (1993)

The famous line kids even say during a fight is Dhai Kilo Ka Haath. This dialogue emerges from this cult classic movie. This is not even the most twisting part of the story.

A maidservant gets raped. Damini, played by Meenakshi Sheshadri, decides that the rapist must get what he deserves, justice. Sunny Deol plays the character of the lawyer who fights her case.

This is one of those movies where he gets the chance to watch Amrish Puri do the role he is best at. A negative one. This is one of the best 90s Bollywood movies, hands down.

33. Ghulam (1998)

Aati Kya Khandala | Ghulam | Aamir Khan & Rani Mukherjee | Alka Yagnik | 90

Starring Aamir Khan and Rani Mukherji. The film is best known for its iconic train scene. And the famous song is called Khandala.

In this movie, Aamir Khan is a petty small-time thief who decides to defy his brother. His iconic matchstick strike is carried forward from the ’90s.

34. Yes Boss (1997)

https://youtu.be/HuLT1Z5AKuU

The amazing Juhi Chawla and Shah Rukh Khan pair up again for this movie. This movie had some fantastic songs that made it into the list.

Songs such as Main Koyi Aisa Geet Gaoon and Ek Din Aap. These songs are so iconic that they make space into popular fiction and media a decade later.

The movie has the main lead wanting to be rich and successful. And we don’t even want to get started on how gorgeous Juhi Chawla is!

The Khans of 90s Bollywood films

Aamir Khan

Aamir Khan
By Gordon Correll/Flickr

Most Hindi movie buffs have been Aamir Khan fans at some point. It would be quite hard to love and call yourself a 90s movie buff without loving him. And it would be valid to do so.

He has done extremely versatile and strong roles, including romantic ones—comedic genius roles such as those in Andaz Apna Apna.

The one-sided friend who has loved for a long time in Rangeela. He also shares screen with Pooja Bhatt in the film Dil Hai Ki Maanta Nahin. A caring uncle looks after his spoilt nephews in Hum Hai Raahi Pyaar Ke and the single father in Akele Hum Akele Tum.

He also plays extremely pivotal roles with Juhi Chawla as the co-star in Ishq and Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak films.

When talking about 90s Bollywood films, it would be a crime not to acknowledge his contribution to it.

Salman Khan

Salman Khan
By saif.ssacbd/Flickr

Salman Khan, often called Bhai lovingly by his fans, gained his prominence during the 90s. However, his rise started a year before the 90s hit Maine Pyaar Kiya.

He is known for his excellent delivery of comedic expressions and the right amount of emotions where needed. An excellent and underrated example of this would be his notable roles in Hum Aapke Hai Koun and Hum Saath Saath Hain.

He also plays significant side roles in movies such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Saajan.

Judwaa had such an impact on 90s Bollywood that it had a remake in 2017. Varun Dhawan played the role of the twins, which Salma Khan previously played.

He also has some great comedic roles, such as Biwi No. 1 and Judwaa.

Shah Rukh and Salman play brothers in the hit movie Karan and Arjun.

Shah Rukh Khan

Shah Rukh Khan
By Steve Jurvetson/Flickr

The face of the 90s Bollywood movies is none other than Shah Rukh Khan. The King of Bollywood called so for his iconic romantic films—the Shehenshaah of Bollywood and the King of Romance.

However, King Khan started off with negative roles where he played the anti-hero. Great examples of these are Baazigar and Darr. The famous stuttering K..K..Kiran also comes from the latter film.

However, the most iconic film he played has to be Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. The film made such an impact on 90s Bollywood and overall mass that the movie still hits the screen of Maratha Mandir in Mumbai on its release date.

Other romance movies such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Dil To Pagal Hai, Dil Se, and Yes Boss are proof enough of his wide range of roles. He is truly a remarkable actor and symbol of Bollywood. You can not call yourself a Hindi cinema or Hindi movies buff without liking SRK.

With that, we come to the end of our list. The ’90s was indeed a remarkable time, especially when we talk about films. Romantic Comedies, Patriotic Films, Crime thrillers, each genre found a noteworthy change and history being created.

We are done with our list, but you’re certainly not even halfway through your binge-watching sessions of these films.

These films are entertaining, primarily lighthearted, especially the mainstream 90s Bollywood movies. And leaves you feeling giddy and happy. These are perfect for watching alone, with your family on a Sunday Afternoon. Or even with your friends.

The best part is these movies never go out of style. So whether you belong to the 90s or not, tune to the television. Or your favorite OTT Platforms to binge through these movies.

We hope you enjoyed this article and had a good trip down memory lane. And also felt a little nostalgic if you’re a 90s kid!

Also read: Awesome Bollywood Karaoke Songs for Women.

Last Updated on by Laveleena Sharma

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