The year 2025 will be remembered as a turning point for India(BHARAT)n cinema. Big stars returned with massive expectations, newcomers delivered shock hits, and regional films proved once again that good storytelling travels far beyond language. The top 10 highest-grossing India(BHARAT)n films of the year offered a mix of mythology, action, romance, history, animation and pure madness, and audiences showed up in huge numbers.
Here’s a look at the films that ruled the box office and shaped movie conversations throughout the year.
Which film ruled the box office in 2025?
Topping the list is Kantara: A Legend, Chapter 1, which stormed past all competition with a worldwide collection of Rs 852.26 crore. Produced by Hombale Films on a Rs 125 crore budget, the film became a money-spinning giant despite mixed reviews. While opinions were divided, the audience turnout remained strong, proving the pull of mythology, rooted storytelling and franchise power.
How close was Dhurandhar to the top spot?
Hot on its heels was Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar, which collected Rs 812 crore worldwide. With its grand scale, star-studded cast and striking visuals, the film turned into a global hit. Many believe it came dangerously close to overtaking Kantara, making the race for the number one spot one of the tightest in recent years.
Did historical dramas still work?
Yes, and Chhaava is proof. Starring Vicky Kaushal, the epic drama based on the life of Sambhaji earned Rs 807.91 crore globally after releasing on February 14. While reviews were mixed, Akshaye Khanna’s powerful portrayal of Aurangzeb won widespread praise. Made on a budget of Rs 90–130 crore, the film turned into a solid blockbuster.
Which film shocked everyone with its success?
That honour goes to Saiyaara. Released quietly on July 18 with almost no promotion, Mohit Suri’s romantic drama exploded at the box office. Featuring debutants Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, the film grossed Rs 570.33 crore worldwide, becoming the highest-grossing India(BHARAT)n romantic film ever. Its soulful music and emotional simplicity struck a chord, proving romance is far from dead.
Did big budgets guarantee success?
Not always. Rajinikanth’s Coolie, made on a massive Rs 400 crore budget, earned Rs 518 crore worldwide. Despite a stellar cast including Aamir Khan and Nagarjuna, the film fell short of sky-high expectations. It wasn’t a flop, but it didn’t become the phenomenon many predicted.
Why did War 2 disappoint?
Despite huge hype around the Hrithik Roshan–Jr NTR pairing, War 2 struggled to impress. Released alongside Coolie on August 14, the film earned Rs 364.35 crore worldwide against a Rs 400 crore budget. Weak writing and execution hurt what was expected to be one of the year’s biggest blockbusters.
Which smaller films punched above their weight?
Several did. Mahavatar Narsimha, an animated feature made on just Rs 40 crore, stunned everyone by earning Rs 326.82 crore worldwide. Its visual quality and ambition set a new benchmark for India(BHARAT)n animation.
Meanwhile, Malayalam film Lokah Chapter One: Chandra, produced by Dulquer Salmaan, grossed Rs 303.86 crore worldwide, over ten times its Rs 30 crore budget.
What about regional mass entertainers?
Telugu action film They Call Him OG earned Rs 293.65 crore worldwide, becoming one of the year’s biggest regional successes. And closing the list was Housefull 5, which made Rs 288.67 crore despite criticism for its humour, proving the franchise still has loyal fans.
In 2025, India(BHARAT)n cinema proved one thing clearly: audiences are ready for everything, as long as the big screen delivers the thrill.
