7 Bollywood Must-Watches for 2026

New Delhi, january 02, 2026: As we step into 2026, the cinematic landscape of Bollywood has transformed. While 2025 was a year of massive box-office triumphs and high-octane sequels, it also produced several “hidden gems” and critical masterpieces that many missed during the frenzy of big-ticket releases.

If you are looking to kick off your New Year with quality storytelling, here are seven Bollywood films from 2025 that you absolutely must catch up on in 2026.

1. Dhurandhar

While it became the biggest blockbuster of 2025, Dhurandhar is a film that demands a second look for its technical brilliance. Directed by Aditya Dhar and starring an ensemble cast including Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna, this espionage thriller redefined the “spy-verse” genre. It’s not just about the action; it’s a masterclass in tension and geopolitical storytelling. If you missed its theatrical run, watching it now on streaming will help you understand why it crossed the ₹1,000 crore mark worldwide.

2. Superboys of Malegaon

For those who prefer soul over spectacle, Superboys of Malegaon is the ultimate “love letter to cinema.” Based on the real-life DIY filmmakers of Malegaon, this Reema Kagti directorial stars Adarsh Gourav in a career-defining role. It’s a whimsical, heartwarming, and often hilarious look at the spirit of indie filmmaking. It was a critical darling in 2025 that deserved more mainstream attention—perfect for a cozy New Year’s weekend watch.

3. Chhaava

Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhaava was the talk of 2025. This historical epic managed to balance grand-scale battle sequences with deep emotional resonance. Unlike many “masala” period dramas, Chhaava stayed true to its roots, offering a gritty and inspiring look at Maratha history. If you missed it during the Valentine’s Day rush last year, 2026 is the perfect time to witness this patriotic saga.

4. Mrs.

A Hindi remake of the acclaimed The Great Indian Kitchen, Mrs. stars Sanya Malhotra in what many critics called the best female performance of 2025. The film is a silent, simmering critique of patriarchal domesticity. It doesn’t rely on loud dialogues; instead, it uses the rhythmic, exhausting nature of household chores to tell its story. It is a powerful, thought-provoking film that lingers long after the credits roll.

5. Saiyaara

In an era of action sequels, Saiyaara was the underdog success story of 2025. Featuring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, this Mohit Suri musical romance proved that “old-school” love stories still have a place in our hearts. With a soundtrack that dominated the charts all through last year, this film is essential viewing for anyone who misses the era of soulful, music-driven Bollywood dramas.

6. Stolen

If you are a fan of “edge-of-your-seat” thrillers, Stolen is a must-watch. Starring Abhishek Banerjee, the film follows two brothers who get caught in a terrifying child-abduction mystery at a railway station. It is raw, fast-paced, and explores the dark underbelly of society and mob mentality. It was one of the highest-rated Indian films on IMDb in 2025, yet it remains a “hidden treasure” for many general viewers.

7. Sitaare Zameen Par

Aamir Khan returned in 2025 with Sitaare Zameen Par, a spiritual successor to his classic Taare Zameen Par. This time, the focus shifted to sports and neurodiversity. The film is a heartwarming sports drama that manages to be educational without being preachy. It’s the kind of “feel-good” cinema that the world needs more of, making it a perfect selection to start your 2026 on a positive note.

Why Watch These Now?

The beginning of a new year is often the best time to catch up on the “Best of” lists from the previous year before the 2026 award season kicks in. These seven films represent the diversity of modern Indian cinema—ranging from billion-dollar epics to intimate, small-budget stories that challenge the status quo.