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- Comedy Films in India are a go-to choice for family-friendly entertainment and consistently perform well at the box office, often rivalling the popularity of romantic films. While many contemporary comedies are crafted purely for fun, there are timeless classics with brilliant stories that continue to entertain audiences. Rest assured, the comedy genre is thriving with fresh releases that promise laughter. We’ve curated a list of the 10 funniest Bollywood films of all time—get ready for a laughter-filled ride! Watch any of these, and we guarantee you’ll be laughing till your stomach aches! Let the fun begin!
1. Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)
- Director: Priyadarshan
- Cast: Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan, Rajpal Yadav, Ameesha Patel
If you’re looking for a blend of horror and comedy, “Bhool Bhulaiyaa” is the perfect pick. Unlike many typical Bollywood comedies, this movie offers a strong storyline with humour seamlessly integrated into the plot. The story follows Vidya Balan, who returns to her hometown with her husband, only to be caught up in a series of eerie events. They turn to Akshay Kumar for help, leading to a series of hilarious and unexpected situations.
2. Andaz Apna Apna (1994)
- Director: Rajkumar Santoshi
- Cast: Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Raveena Tandon, Karisma Kapoor, Paresh Rawal
In this quirky comedy, two laid-back characters, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan, compete for the attention of a wealthy woman and end up becoming her protectors against crime. Although the film didn’t perform exceptionally well at first, it has since become a cult classic. Its iconic dialogue has woven its way into everyday conversations, proving the enduring influence of this entertaining movie.
3. Gol Maal (1979)
- Director: Hrishikesh Mukherjee
- Cast: Amol Palekar, Bindiya Goswami, Deven Verma, Shubha Khote, Buaji Kalindi, Manju Singh, Ratna Sharma, Dina Pathak
Gol Mal is regarded as one of the finest comedy films in Bollywood, adored by both critics and audiences alike. Packed with hilarious scenarios such as a job hunt, a fake moustache, and a chaotic hockey match, it delivers nonstop laughter. The uproarious antics and memorable screams of Utpal Dutt in the film continue to be talked about to this day.
4. Hera Pheri (2000)
- Director: Priyadarshan
- Cast: Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, Sunil Shetty, Tabu, Om Puri, Gulshan Grover, Kulbhushan Kharbanda, Mukesh Khanna
Hera Pheri, a Hindi adaptation of the 1989 Malayalam film Ramji Rao Speaking, has earned cult classic status. The film follows three misfits who find themselves entangled in a dangerous kidnapping plot, leading to a series of hilarious and unexpected events.
5. Padosan (1968)
- Director: Jyoti Swaroop
- Cast: Sunil Dutt, Saira Banu, Mehmood
This film is a top contender for the title of best comedy film ever. It tells the story of an ordinary guy who falls for his neighbour and ropes in his friends to help him win her heart, especially when she starts getting close to her music teacher. The perfect blend of fun and music makes it stand out. The unforgettable singing contests between Sunil Dutt and Mehmood‘s characters are a highlight, while Kishore Kumar brings an emotional depth to this delightful comedy.
6. 3 Idiots (2009)
- Director: Rajkumar Hirani
- Cast: Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, R. Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Boman Irani
Adapted from Chetan Bhagat‘s book “Five Point Someone”, 3 Idiots became the highest-grossing film of its time, enjoying massive success both in India and China. The story follows two friends on a quest to find their missing college mate, the third ‘idiot’. The film is filled with emotional highs and lows, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish. Don’t miss the hilarious scene where Omi Vaidya delivers a memorable speech in Hindi, which has become iconic in its own right.
7. Chachi 420 (1997)
- Director: Kamal Haasan
- Cast: Kamal Hassan, Tabu, Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal
This film takes you on a wild ride, where a father-in-law unknowingly falls for his son-in-law, who is disguised as a woman. It’s a quirky and unique storyline. While it draws inspiration from Robin Williams‘ “Mrs. Doubtfire”, it’s Kamal Hassan‘s stellar performance that truly brings the story to life, making it an unforgettable experience.
8. Aankhen (1993)
- Director: David Dhawan
- Cast: Govinda, Chunky Pandey, Raj Babbar
Amidst confusion and chaos, this film marked the beginning of David Dhawan‘s lasting love for comedy. The wild camaraderie between Govinda and Chunky Pandey became the highlight, stealing the show with their impeccable chemistry and hilarious antics.
9. OMG 2 (2023)
- Director: Amit Rai
- Cast: Akshay Kumar, Pankaj Tripathi
In this heartfelt drama, Kanti, a devoted father portrayed by Pankaj Tripathi, is devastated to learn that his son is hospitalised. In a surprising twist, Lord Shiva, whom Kanti deeply reveres, sends a messenger to guide him through this difficult time. Empowered by this divine intervention, Kanti finds the strength to take legal action and push for sex education in his son’s conservative school. But the journey is far from simple, with numerous twists and challenges along the way!
10. Namak Halaal (1982)
- Director: Prakash Mehra
- Cast: Waheeda Rehman, Shashi Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan
Back in the days when CGI was rarely used in Hindi cinema, Amitabh Bachchan‘s acting alone, along with the antics of a fly, could have audiences laughing uncontrollably. The film also featured classic Bollywood elements, blending the intensity of “Deewar” with the dynamic duo of Shashi Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan, but with a heavy dose of comedy added to the mix.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bollywood has gifted us with timeless comedy films that continue to entertain audiences across generations. From iconic classics to contemporary blockbusters, these films have won hearts with their humour, wit, and unforgettable characters. Whether it’s slapstick comedy, sharp dialogue, or ingenious plots, the top 10 comedy films in Bollywood highlight the immense versatility and creativity of Indian cinema. With laughter as a universal language, these films have brought joy and entertainment to global audiences, earning their rightful place in the rich legacy of Bollywood‘s comedic excellence.
