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Explore India’s most expensive movies, known for their spectacular visuals and epic narratives. From the revolutionary effects in 2.0 to the grand spectacle of RRR, these films showcase some of the highest budgets in Indian cinema.
India’s film industry is incredibly diverse, with films produced annually in both Bollywood and regional cinemas. Based in Mumbai, Bollywood is renowned for its grand productions and catchy songs that captivate global audiences.
However, the cinematic scene extends far beyond Bollywood. Regional industries like Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films contribute significantly to the country’s vibrant film landscape. As filmmaking has evolved, production budgets have surged, transforming the industry into a highly commercialized sector where impressive box office returns often mirror high production costs.
Here’s a list of the top 10 most expensive films in India as of August 2024, according to industry sources:
| Rank & Film | Estimated Budget (in INR) | Director | Lead Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kalki 2898 AD | 600 crores | Nag Ashwin | Amitabh Bachchan Kamal Haasan Prabhas |
| 2.0 | 570 crores | S Shankar | Rajinikanth Akshay Kumar Amy Jackson |
| RRR | 550 crores | SS Rajamouli | N. T. Rama Rao Jr. Ram Charan Ajay Devgn Alia Bhatt |
| Adipurush | 500 crores | Om Raut | Prabhas Saif Ali Khan Kriti Sanon |
| Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 | 500 crores | Mani Ratnam | Vikram Karthi Jayam Ravi Aishwarya Rai Bachchan |
| Brahmastra | 410 cores | Ayan Mukerji | Amitabh Bachchan Ranbir Kapoor Alia Bhatt |
| The Good Maharaja | 400 crores | Vikash Verma | Sanjay Dutt Dhruv Verma |
| Saaho | 350 crores | Sujeeth | Prabhas Shraddha Kapoor |
| Radhe Shyam | 350 crores | Radha Krishna Kumar | Prabhas Pooja Hegde |
| Thugs of Hindostan | 240 crores | Aditya Chopra | Amitabh Bachchan Aamir Khan Katrina Kaif |
It’s time to dive into India’s most expensive movies, showcasing the nation’s cinematic magnificence and charm.
1. Kalki 2898 AD
- Release Year: 2022
- Production Studio: Star Studios
Kalki 2898 AD is a groundbreaking production directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Nag Ashwin. This sci-fi epic is set in a post-apocalyptic world and follows a group of rebels determined to protect a key lab subject, essential for safeguarding Earth from dark forces. The film features Prabhas in a dual role, with an ensemble cast that includes Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, Disha Patani, Saswata Chatterjee, Brahmanandam, Rajendra Prasad, Shobhana, Pasupathy, and Anna Ben. The movie made history, becoming the fourth highest-grossing Indian film ever, earning Rs 1,100 crore worldwide at the box office.
2. 2.0
- Release Year: 2018
- Production Studio: Lyca Productions
2.0, directed by the visionary S. Shankar, stands as a milestone in Indian cinema, celebrated for its revolutionary visual effects and gripping narrative. Featuring the iconic Rajinikanth and the dynamic Akshay Kumar, the film explores thought-provoking themes like environmentalism and the impact of technology. With its record-breaking budget, 2.0 redefined the standards of Indian sci-fi action films, dazzling viewers with its spectacular visuals and innovative storyline.
3. RRR
- Release Year: 2022
- Production Studio: DVV Entertainment
“RRR,” the epic period action drama helmed by visionary director S.S. Rajamouli, is set in India’s pre-independence era. Starring Ram Charan and N.T. Rama Rao Jr. in powerful lead roles, the film delivers a gripping tale of bravery and national pride. It achieved worldwide acclaim, particularly at the 2023 Oscars, where its electrifying track “Naatu Naatu” made history by winning the ‘Best Original Song’ award.
4. Adipurush
- Release Year: 2023
- Production Studio: T-Series Films
Adipurush, helmed by director Om Raut, is a spectacular cinematic adaptation of the legendary epic, with Prabhas portraying Lord Rama. The movie dazzles with its opulent sets and cutting-edge visual effects, striving to reimagine timeless tales for modern audiences. However, despite its grand vision, Adipurush underperformed commercially and drew backlash for its weak screenplay.
5. Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1
- Release Year: 2022
- Production Studio: Talkies
Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 brings to life Kalki Krishnamurthy’s iconic novel, immersing viewers in the grandeur of the Chola dynasty. The story centres on Arulmozhivarman, a brave prince battling to reclaim his rightful throne and bring justice to his kingdom. With a stellar cast—including Vikram as Aditya Karikalan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as the enigmatic Nandini—the film captivates with its powerful performances and rich storytelling.
6. Brahmastra
- Release Year: 2022
- Production Studio: Star Studios
Brahmāstra is a mesmerizing fusion of mythology, fantasy, and high-octane adventure, masterfully directed by Ayan Mukerji. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as Shiva, a young man who awakens to his incredible supernatural abilities and embarks on a mission to uncover the mysteries of the legendary weapon, the Brahmāstra. Alongside him is Alia Bhatt as Isha, adding depth and emotion to this exhilarating journey. With breathtaking visual effects and a powerhouse cast, including the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, the movie delivers a spectacular cinematic experience.
7. The Good Maharaja
- Release Year: 2022
- Production Studio: G7 Films Poland
The Good Maharaja delves into the inspiring true story of Maharaja Jam Sahib Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji, the benevolent ruler of Nawanagar during World War II. Despite governing a small princely state in India, he displayed unwavering compassion, offering sanctuary to Polish refugees escaping the horrors of the Nazi regime. The film shines a light on his remarkable humanitarian legacy, showcasing how one leader’s courage and kindness made a profound impact during history’s darkest hour.
8. Saaho
- Release Year: 2019
- Production Studio: UV Creations
Saaho revolves around an enigmatic protagonist (played by Prabhas) who gets caught in a high-stakes conspiracy after a botched heist. Determined to unravel the truth behind the robbery and its masterminds, he plunges into a dangerous game of cat and mouse. Along the way, he battles deadly adversaries and forms unlikely alliances, navigating a shadowy world of betrayal and danger. Packed with high-octane action and shocking revelations, this pulse-pounding thriller keeps viewers on the edge of their seats till the climactic end.
9. Radhe Shyam
- Release Year: 2022
- Production Studio: UV Creations
Radhe Shyam,” helmed by director Radha Krishna Kumar, is a visually stunning romantic saga that unfolds across the picturesque backdrops of Europe. Featuring Prabhas and Pooja Hegde in lead roles, the film weaves a tale of love, fate, and serendipitous moments. Combining breathtaking cinematography with an emotionally rich storyline, this cinematic masterpiece aims to enchant audiences with its timeless romance and grand visual spectacle.
10. Thugs of Hindostan
- Release Year: 2018
- Production Studio: Yash Raj Films
Thugs of Hindostan,” a magnum opus directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, ranks among Indian cinema’s most ambitious ventures. Set against the backdrop of British colonial India, the film boasts powerhouse performances by Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan. While it garnered mixed critical reception, the movie dazzles with its opulent production design, breathtaking action sequences, and legendary ensemble cast. This high-octane period drama marks a daring attempt to redefine historical storytelling in Bollywood with its larger-than-life vision.
Conclusion
India’s Top 10 Most Expensive Films demonstrate the nation’s unwavering commitment to cinematic innovation. These big-budget spectacles, featuring A-list stars and groundbreaking VFX, represent the bold evolution of Indian cinema. Spanning genres from historical epics to futuristic sci-fi adventures, these productions showcase the industry’s relentless pursuit of visual grandeur and immersive storytelling. As Indian films gain global recognition, these record-breaking projects stand as shining examples of the creative vision, technical prowess, and ambitious spirit propelling Bollywood and beyond into an exciting new era of filmmaking.
