Indian cinema has a rich history of producing captivating thrillers, leaving audiences on the edge. From psychological suspense and crime dramas to action-packed mysteries, the genre has seen a diverse range of films that showcase the creativity and storytelling prowess of Indian filmmakers. This list of the top 20 Indian thriller movies combines some of the most engaging and critically acclaimed films, each offering a unique blend of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists.
Thrillers in Indian cinema have entertained and pushed the boundaries of storytelling, often blending elements such as intense character studies, social commentary, and intricate plots. These films demonstrate the versatility of Indian filmmakers and their ability to craft narratives that resonate with audiences on multiple levels. Whether it’s the chilling suspense of a psychological thriller, the adrenaline rush of an action-packed chase, or the intricate puzzle of a mystery, Indian thrillers have something to offer for every taste.
From classic hits to modern masterpieces, the following list encompasses the best thrillers that Indian cinema has to offer. Each film stands out for its unique storytelling, powerful performances, and intricate plots, making them must-watches for fans of the thriller genre.
Whether new to Indian cinema or a seasoned fan, these films provide a thrilling cinematic experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Dive into this curated selection and prepare to be thrilled by the best Indian thrillers ever.
1. Baazigar (1993)
“Baazigar” is a classic Bollywood thriller that marked Shah Rukh Khan’s transition from romantic hero to anti-hero, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The film follows the story of Ajay Sharma (Shah Rukh Khan), who adopts the alias Vicky Malhotra to infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Madan Chopra (Dalip Tahil) and his daughters, Seema (Shilpa Shetty) and Priya (Kajol).
Driven by a desire for revenge against Chopra, who wronged his family, Ajay meticulously plans his retribution, resulting in unexpected twists and dramatic confrontations. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of the ruthless and cunning Ajay is chilling and captivating, making “Baazigar” a standout in his filmography.
The film’s engaging plot and its memorable soundtrack, composed by Anu Malik, keep viewers hooked from start to finish. Directed by Abbas-Mustan, “Baazigar” effectively balances elements of suspense, drama, and romance, creating a compelling narrative that remains relevant even today.
The film’s success paved the way for future thrillers in Bollywood and solidified Shah Rukh Khan’s status as a versatile and talented actor. “Baazigar” was praised for its direction, screenplay, and performances, making it a significant entry in the thriller genre
2. Darr (1993)
“Darr” is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark side of obsessive love, showcasing Shah Rukh Khan’s versatility as an actor. Directed by Yash Chopra, the film follows the story of Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan), a young man whose infatuation with Kiran (Juhi Chawla) becomes a dangerous obsession.
Sunny Deol plays Sunil, Kiran’s fiancé, who becomes the target of Rahul’s jealousy. As Rahul’s obsession escalates, the film explores themes of love, possession, and madness, culminating in a tense and dramatic climax. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of the obsessive lover is chilling and captivating, making “Darr” a memorable and unsettling thriller.
Juhi Chawla and Sunny Deol deliver strong performances, adding depth to their characters and the narrative. The film’s iconic soundtrack, composed by Shiv-Hari, and its memorable dialogues contributed to its popularity.
Directed with finesse by Yash Chopra, “Darr” effectively balances elements of suspense, drama, and romance, creating a compelling narrative that remains relevant even today.
The film was a critical and commercial success, further establishing Shah Rukh Khan as a versatile actor capable of portraying complex characters. “Darr” is a significant entry in the thriller genre, showcasing the darker aspects of love and obsession.
3. Khiladi (1992)
“Khiladi” is a quintessential Bollywood thriller that began the famous “Khiladi” series starring Akshay Kumar. Directed by Abbas-Mustan, the film follows a group of college friends—Raj (Akshay Kumar), Neelam (Ayesha Jhulka), Boney (Deepak Tijori), and Sheetal (Sabeeha)—who become entangled in a murder mystery when one of them is found dead under suspicious circumstances.
As the plot unfolds, the friends find themselves in a web of deceit and danger, struggling to prove their innocence while uncovering the real culprit. Akshay Kumar’s charismatic performance as the protagonist, Raj, adds to the film’s appeal, while the supporting cast delivers strong performances that enhance the narrative.
The film’s engaging plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. Directed with precision by Abbas-Mustan, “Khiladi” effectively balances elements of suspense, drama, and romance, creating a compelling narrative that remains relevant even today.
The film’s memorable soundtrack, composed by Jatin-Lalit, adds charm and popularity. Khiladi” was a critical and commercial success, establishing Akshay Kumar as a leading actor in Bollywood and paving the way for future installments in the “Khiladi” series. The film’s brilliant storytelling, engaging plot, and strong performances make it a standout in the thriller genre.
4. Gupt (1997)
“Gupt” is a classic Bollywood suspense thriller that engages viewers with its intricate plot and unexpected twists. Directed by Rajiv Rai, the film follows Sahil Sinha (Bobby Deol), a young man who is wrongfully accused of murdering his stepfather, Governor Jaisingh Sinha (Raj Babbar).
Determined to prove his innocence, Sahil embarks on a quest to uncover the natural killer, navigating a web of deceit, betrayal, and danger. Along the way, he encounters Sheetal (Manisha Koirala) and Isha (Kajol), who play pivotal roles in the unfolding mystery.
Kajol’s portrayal of the enigmatic Isha is particularly noteworthy, adding a layer of intrigue to the film. The film’s engaging plot and its memorable soundtrack, composed by Viju Shah, keep viewers hooked from start to finish.
Bobby Deol delivers a compelling performance as the protagonist, while the supporting cast, including Om Puri and Paresh Rawal, enhances the narrative with their strong performances.
Directed with precision by Rajiv Rai, “Gupt” effectively balances elements of suspense, drama, and romance, creating a compelling narrative that remains relevant even today. The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its direction, screenplay, and performances. “Gupt” is a significant entry in the thriller genre, showcasing the best of Bollywood’s suspenseful storytelling.
5. Kaun? (1999)
Ram Gopal Varma directed “Kaun?” stars Urmila Matondkar, Manoj Bajpayee, and Sushant Singh. The film is a psychological thriller set in a single location, focusing on a woman’s encounter with a stranger.
The film takes place in a single location—a large, eerie house—where a woman (Urmila Matondkar) is alone on a stormy night. Her solitude is interrupted by the arrival of a stranger (Manoj Bajpayee) who claims to be her neighbor.
As the night progresses, the tension escalates, and the woman’s anxiety grows as she tries to determine whether the stranger is a threat. The film’s claustrophobic setting and intense performances make it a gripping watch. Urmila Matondkar’s portrayal of the frightened yet resourceful woman is convincing and compelling, while Manoj Bajpayee’s enigmatic character keeps the audience guessing.
The film’s screenplay, written by Anurag Kashyap, effectively builds suspense, and Ram Gopal Varma’s direction keeps the viewers engaged. “Kaun?” is a classic example of how a simple premise can be transformed into a riveting thriller with the proper execution. Its minimalistic approach, solid performances, and taut narrative make it a cult favorite in the thriller genre.
6. Ek Hasina Thi (2004)
“Ek Hasina Thi” is a gripping revenge thriller that showcases the darker aspects of human nature and the lengths one can go to seek justice. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film follows Sarika (Urmila Matondkar), a naïve woman whose life is turned upside down when she falls in love with Karan (Saif Ali Khan), a charming yet deceitful man.
Karan frames Sarika for a crime she didn’t commit, leading to her wrongful imprisonment. Determined to seek vengeance, Sarika transforms into a formidable force, meticulously planning revenge against those who wronged her. Urmila Matondkar delivers a powerful performance, capturing Sarika’s journey from innocence to ruthless determination.
Saif Ali Khan’s portrayal of the manipulative and cold-hearted Karan adds depth to the narrative. The film’s screenplay and Sriram Raghavan’s deft direction create a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. “Ek Hasina Thi” effectively balances suspense, drama, and action elements, making it a compelling watch.
The film received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, establishing Sriram Raghavan as a master of the thriller genre. “Ek Hasina Thi” is a thought-provoking film that explores themes of betrayal, retribution, and the complexities of human behavior, making it a significant entry in the thriller genre.
7. Manorama Six Feet Under (2007)
“Manorama Six Feet Under” is a neo-noir thriller that captures the essence of classic detective stories while presenting a uniquely Indian narrative. Abhay Deol stars as Satyaveer, an amateur detective and writer living in a small Rajasthan town.
When a mysterious woman hires him to investigate her husband’s alleged infidelity, Satyaveer finds himself entangled in a complex conspiracy involving corruption, murder, and deceit. The film’s atmospheric setting, with its arid landscapes and desolate towns, adds to the sense of intrigue and suspense.
Abhay Deol’s nuanced performance as the reluctant detective is complemented by vital supporting roles from Raima Sen and Gul Panag. The film’s screenplay, inspired by Roman Polanski’s “Chinatown,” is intricate and well-crafted, keeping viewers engaged with twists and turns.
Navdeep Singh’s direction and Arvind Kannabiran’s cinematography create a visually compelling narrative that enhances the film’s noir aesthetic. “Manorama Six Feet Under” was critically acclaimed for its storytelling and execution, establishing Navdeep Singh as a talented filmmaker in Indian cinema. The film’s blend of mystery, suspense, and social commentary makes it a standout in the thriller genre.
8. A Wednesday! (2008)
Neeraj Pandey directed “A Wednesday!” which features Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher. The film is a political thriller that deals with themes of terrorism and justice.
The film begins with a retired police commissioner, Prakash Rathod (Anupam Kher), recounting the most challenging case of his career.
The story revolves around a commoner (Naseeruddin Shah) who calls the police with a chilling ultimatum: he has planted bombs across Mumbai. He will detonate them unless four terrorists are released. As the police scramble to meet his demands, the narrative unfolds through well-paced flashbacks and revelations.
The film expertly builds tension, leading to a climax that questions the morality of vigilantism and the justice system’s failure. Naseeruddin Shah delivers a powerful performance as the enigmatic commoner, while Anupam Kher’s portrayal of the determined police commissioner adds depth to the story.
The film’s tight screenplay and direction keep the audience engaged, making “A Wednesday!” a must-watch for fans of intelligent thrillers. It raises critical questions about the state of security and justice, leaving viewers with much to ponder long after the credits roll.
9. Aamir (2008)
“Aamir” is a taut thriller that follows the harrowing journey of Dr. Aamir Ali (Rajeev Khandelwal), a young doctor who returns to Mumbai from London only to find himself trapped in a terrorist plot. Upon his arrival, he is handed a cell phone by unknown assailants, who force him to comply with their demands to ensure the safety of his family.
The film’s narrative is driven by Aamir’s desperate attempts to navigate the city’s underbelly, following cryptic instructions while being constantly watched. Rajeev Khandelwal delivers a gripping performance as the protagonist, capturing his fear, frustration, and determination.
The realistic portrayal of Mumbai’s gritty streets and its fast-paced storyline keep viewers engaged.
Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, “Aamir” effectively builds tension and suspense, making it a compelling watch. The film’s screenplay and its intense atmosphere create a sense of urgency that mirrors Aamir’s plight.
“Aamir” was praised for its direction, screenplay, and Khandelwal’s performance, establishing Raj Kumar Gupta as a talented filmmaker in Indian cinema. The film’s exploration of themes such as identity, sacrifice, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals under duress makes it a significant entry into the thriller genre.
10. Kahaani (2012)
“Kahaani” is a masterfully crafted thriller that captivates audiences with its suspenseful narrative and powerful performances. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, the film follows Vidya Bagchi (Vidya Balan), a pregnant woman who travels to Kolkata to find her missing husband, Arnab.
As she navigates the bustling city, Vidya uncovers a web of deceit and conspiracy, leading to shocking revelations. Vidya Balan’s stellar performance as the determined and resilient protagonist is compelling and inspiring. The film’s atmospheric setting, wit, and depiction of Kolkata during the Durga Puja festival add intrigue and suspense.
The supporting cast, including Parambrata Chatterjee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, deliver strong performances that enhance the narrative. Sujoy Ghosh’s direction and the film’s tightly woven screenplay ensure that the suspense is maintained throughout.
“Kahaani” successfully blends mystery, drama, and thriller elements, creating a gripping cinematic experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The film received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, winning several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Director and Actress. “Kahaani” stands out in the thriller genre, offering a captivating blend of suspense, emotion, and intrigue.
11. Talaash (2012)
Directed by Reema Kagti, “Talaash” stars Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, and Kareena Kapoor. The film is a psychological horror-thriller that explores grief, guilt, and redemption themes.
Aamir Khan stars as Inspector Surjan Singh Shekhawat, a police officer grappling with personal grief while investigating mysterious accidents. Rani Mukerji plays his wife, Roshni, who is also struggling With the loss of their son.
The plot thickens when Surjan encounters Rosie (Kareena Kapoor), a mysterious woman who seems to hold the key to the case. The film expertly weaves elements of suspense, supernatural occurrences, and emotional drama, creating a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on edge.
Aamir Khan delivers a powerful performance as the tormented cop, while Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor add depth to their roles with their nuanced portrayals. The film’s haunting soundtrack, composed by Ram Sampath, and its atmospheric cinematography by K. U. Mohanan enhance the overall suspense.
“Talaash” received praise for its direction, screenplay, and performances, making it a significant entry in the psychological thriller genre. The film’s exploration of grief and guilt and its eerie and suspenseful storytelling leave a lasting impact on viewers.
12. Ugly (2013)
“Ugly” is a haunting psychological thriller that delves deep into the dark sides of human nature. The film begins with the kidnapping of a young girl, Kali, the daughter of a struggling actor, Rahul (Rahul Bhat), and his estranged wife, Shalini (Tejaswini Kolhapure).
The ensuing investigation reveals a web of deceit, betrayal, and greed. Ronit Roy plays Shoumik Bose, a harsh and unyielding police officer tasked with solving the case. As the story unfolds, the film exposes the inherent ugliness within human nature, with its characters driven by selfish motives and desperation.
Anurag Kashyap’s direction creates a tense and gritty atmosphere, capturing the underbelly of Mumbai in all its rawness. The performances are exceptional, with Rahul Bhat and Ronit Roy delivering powerful portrayals of their flawed characters.
The film’s non-linear narrative and dark, brooding cinematography add to its psychological intensity. “Ugly” is a thought-provoking film that leaves a lasting impact, challenging viewers to reflect on the complexities of human behavior and the moral ambiguities that define our actions.
13. Special 26 (2013)
“Special 26” is a cleverly crafted heist thriller that takes inspiration from real-life incidents to create an engaging and suspenseful narrative. Akshay Kumar stars as Ajay Singh, the gang leader who poses as a CBI officer to execute daring heists.
The film follows their meticulously planned operations, which involve raiding wealthy business people and politicians under the guise of anti-corruption investigations. Anupam Kher plays P.K. Sharma, a key gang member, while Manoj Bajpayee portrays the relentless CBI officer chasing them.
The film’s plot is filled with clever twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Akshay Kumar’s charismatic performance as the mastermind adds to the film’s appeal, while the supporting cast delivers strong performances that enhance the narrative.
Directed by Neeraj Pandey, “Special 26” successfully blends elements of suspense, drama, and humor, making it a thoroughly entertaining thriller. The film’s meticulous attention to detail and its recreation of the 1980s era add authenticity to the story.
“Special 26” was a critical and commercial success, further establishing Neeraj Pandey as a prominent filmmaker in Indian cinema. The film’s brilliant storytelling, engaging plot, and strong performances make it a standout in the heist thriller genre.
14. Baby (2015)
“Baby” is an exhilarating action-thriller that showcases Akshay Kumar’s prowess as an action star while exploring themes of patriotism and duty. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the film follows Ajay Singh Rajput (Akshay Kumar), an elite Indian intelligence officer tasked with preventing terrorist attacks on home soil.
The plot takes viewers on a high-stakes journey as Ajay and his team race against time to thwart a deadly conspiracy. Rana Daggubati, Anupam Kher, and Taapsee Pannu play pivotal roles, adding depth to the narrative with their compelling performances. The film’s action sequences are meticulously choreographed, delivering edge-of-the-seat excitement that keeps viewers glued to their screens.
Neeraj Pandey’s direction and the film’s tightly woven screenplay ensure that the suspense is maintained throughout. “Baby” successfully blends elements. It is a thoroughly engaging thriller of espionage, drama, and action thriller. The film’s realistic portrayal of intelligence operations and its well-executed plot twists received critical acclaim.
“Baby” was praised for its direction, screenplay, and performances, establishing Neeraj Pandey as a master of the thriller genre. The film’s brilliant storytelling, intense action scenes, and strong performances make it a must-watch for fans of intelligent thrillers.
15. NH10 (2015)
“NH10” is a raw and intense thriller that delves into the dark realities of patriarchy and honor killings in rural India. Anushka Sharma stars as Meera, a successful professional who embarks on a road trip with her husband, Arjun (Neil Bhoopalam), to celebrate her birthday.
Their journey takes a horrifying turn when they witness a violent honor killing and become targets of the perpetrators. The film’s gripping narrative depicts the couple’s struggle for survival as they navigate the hostile landscape.
Anushka Sharma’s powerful performance as Meera, a woman pushed to her limits, is compelling and inspiring. The film’s realistic portrayal of violence and social commentary adds depth to the thrilling storyline.
Directed by Navdeep Singh, “NH10” effectively captures the tension and fear experienced by the protagonists. The film’s cinematography, with its desolate and ominous landscapes, enhances the sense of dread and urgency. “NH10” also marks Anushka Sharma’s debut as a producer, showcasing her commitment to bringing impactful stories to the screen.
The film received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, making it a significant entry in the thriller genre. “NH10” is a thought-provoking film highlighting the harsh realities of societal norms and the lengths one can go to for survival.
16. Drishyam (2015)
“Drishyam” is a masterfully crafted thriller that combines suspense, drama, and mystery. Ajay Devgn plays Vijay Salgaonkar, a cable TV operator who lives quietly with his family in a small Goan town. Their peaceful existence is shattered when a crime involving his daughter puts them in the crosshairs of a powerful and ruthless police officer, IG Meera Deshmukh, played by Tabu.
The plot unfolds as Vijay orchestrates an elaborate cover-up to protect his family, leading the police on a wild goose chase. The narrative constantly challenges viewers’ assumptions, delivering an intense cinematic experience with unexpected twists and turns.
The screenplay, adapted from the 2013 Malayalam film of the same name, is tight and engaging, making “Drishyam” a standout in the thriller genre. The performances are top-notch, with Ajay Devgn and Tabu delivering some of the best work of their careers. The film’s climax is particularly gripping, leaving the audience in awe of Vijay’s meticulous planning and execution.
17. Dhruvangal Pathinaaru (2016)
Dhruvangal Pathinaaru,” also known as “D-16,” is a Tamil thriller that captivates audiences with its intricate plot and non-linear narrative. Directed by Karthick Naren, the film follows Deepak (Rahman), a retired police officer who recounts the events of a mysterious murder case that changed his life.
The story unfolds through flashbacks, revealing multiple perspectives and unexpected twists. As Deepak delves deeper into the investigation, the lines between truth and deception blur, keeping viewers engaged and guessing until the end.
Rahman’s performance as the determined yet weary detective is compelling, adding depth to the character and the narrative. The film’s screenplay is tightly woven, with each revelation adding to the suspense and complexity of the plot.
Karthick Naren’s direction and the film’s atmospheric cinematography create a gripping and immersive experience. “D-16” was critically acclaimed for its storytelling, direction, and performances, establishing Karthick Naren as a promising filmmaker in Indian cinema.
The film’s success paved the way for more regional thrillers to gain recognition on a national level. “Dhruvangal Pathinaaru” is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and well-crafted thrillers, offering a captivating blend of mystery and intrigue.
18. Andhadhun (2018)
“Andhadhun” is a dark comedy thriller that tells the story of Akash (Ayushmann Khurrana), a blind pianist who unwittingly becomes embroiled in a murder. The film begins with Akash leading a seemingly ordinary life, but his world turns upside down when he becomes a witness to a crime.
Tabu plays Simi, a femme fatale whose husband is murdered, and she becomes a key player in the ensuing chaos. As Akash navigates the dangerous situation, the film takes viewers on a rollercoaster of suspense, humor, and intrigue. The narrative is filled with unpredictable plot twists that keep the audience on the edge.
Ayushmann Khurrana’s performance as the blind pianist is both convincing and compelling, while Tabu’s portrayal of the cunning Simi adds a layer of complexity to the story. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Amit Trivedi, enhances its eerie atmosphere, and the cinematography by K. U. Mohanan captures the essence of the thriller.
“Andhadhun” won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, showcasing its critical acclaim and popularity. It is a highly engaging thriller that blends suspense, humor, and music uniquely and captivatingly.
19. Badla (2019)
“Badla” is a gripping legal thriller that keeps viewers guessing with its intricate plot and unexpected twists. Amitabh Bachchan stars as Badal Gupta, a seasoned lawyer hired to defend Naina Sethi (Taapsee Pannu), a successful businesswoman accused of murdering her lover.
The film unfolds through a series of intense interrogations as Badal and Naina reconstruct the events leading up to the murder. As the story progresses, hidden secrets and ulterior motives come to light, adding complexity to the narrative.
Amitabh Bachchan’s portrayal of the sharp and relentless lawyer is captivating, while Taapsee Pannu delivers a strong performance as the accused woman fighting to prove her innocence. Sujoy Ghosh’s direction and the film’s tightly woven screenplay ensure that the suspense is maintained throughout.
Adapted from the Spanish movie “The Invisible Guest,” “Badla” successfully captures the essence of the original while adding its unique elements. The film’s clever use of flashbacks and its non-linear narrative keep viewers engaged and intrigued.
“Badla” was well-received by audiences and critics alike, further cementing Sujoy Ghosh’s reputation as a master of the thriller genre. The film’s brilliant storytelling and compelling performances make it a must-watch for fans of legal dramas and suspenseful thrillers.
20. Mardaani 2 (2019)
“Mardaani 2” is a hard-hitting thriller that showcases Rani Mukerji’s powerful performance as the fearless and determined police officer Shivani Shivaji Roy. Directed by Gopi Puthran, the film follows Shivani as she takes on a high-stakes mission to capture a serial rapist and murderer who targets young women in the city of Kota.
The intense and gripping narrative depicts Shivani’s relentless pursuit of justice while navigating the challenges posed by the cunning and ruthless antagonist, Sunny (Vishal Jethwa). Rani Mukerji’s portrayal of Shivani is inspiring and compelling, capturing the character’s strength, resilience, and dedication to her duty.
The film’s screenplay is tightly woven, with each scene adding to the suspense and urgency of the investigation. Gopi Puthran’s direction and the film’s realistic portrayal of crime and law enforcement make “Mardaani 2” compelling.
The film’s social commentary on the issues of violence against women and the importance of justice adds depth to the thrilling narrative. “Mardaani 2” received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, further establishing Rani Mukerji as a versatile and talented actress.
The film’s brilliant storytelling, intense action scenes, and strong performances make it a significant entry in the thriller genre.
Final thoughts
Indian cinema has a rich history of producing some of the most captivating and engaging thriller movies that have left audiences spellbound. These top 20 Indian thrillers showcase the best of the genre, offering a diverse range of narratives, from psychological thrillers and crime dramas to suspenseful mysteries and action-packed adventures.
Each film stands out for its unique storytelling, powerful performances, and intricate plots, making them must-watches for fans of the thriller genre. Whether new to Indian cinema or a seasoned fan, these films provide a thrilling cinematic experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
