Here is an edge-of-your-seat list of the best Hindi thriller movies, ranked by Bollywood film lovers like you. With many recent award-winning films on the list you’re sure to find a movie to leave you breathless on this list of Hindi thriller films, regardless of how new you are to Indian cinema.
If you’re looking for something with a bit of drama and romance with your thrills check out the award-winning My Name is Khan. Or, if a historical road movie is more up your alley, take a peek at Gunday. Then again, if mystery is your thing you might enjoy the crime-drama Talaash. Whatever kind of thriller you’re looking for you’re sure to find it on this Hindi thriller movies list. Take a deep breath, make sure you've had your blood pressure meds, and work your way through list of Bollywood thriller movies. And—if you’re not exhausted from the ride—vote on which ones you think are the most thrilling.
1Drishyam is a masterfully crafted Hindi thriller that combines elements of suspense, drama, and mystery. Directed by Nishikant Kamat and starring the versatile Ajay Devgn, this film keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The plot revolves around a man who desperately tries to protect his family from an impending crisis, using his intelligence and wit. With a narrative that constantly challenges viewers' assumptions, Drishyam delivers an intense cinematic experience with unexpected twists and turns.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Jeethu Joseph
2A Wednesday! is a thoughtfully constructed political thriller that delves into themes of terrorism and justice. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, this film boasts an impressive ensemble cast featuring veteran actors Anupam Kher and Naseeruddin Shah in pivotal roles. Utilizing a non-linear storytelling technique, A Wednesday! expertly unravels its complex narrative through well-paced flashbacks and revelations, culminating in a deeply satisfying climax. It skillfully reveals the intricacies of bureaucracy while raising critical questions on morality and vigilantism.
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Neeraj Pandey
3Ghajini is a pulse-pounding Hindi thriller that showcases Aamir Khan's stellar acting prowess as he plays a man suffering from short-term memory loss seeking vengeance for his murdered lover. Inspired by Christopher Nolan's Memento, this gripping film directed by A.R. Murugadoss masterfully employs a non-linear narrative to keep viewers on their toes. Featuring captivating performances and intriguing plot twists, Ghajini offers a riveting cinematic experience that expertly blends drama, action, and suspense.
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: A.R. Murugadoss
4Baby
Baby is an exhilarating action-thriller directed by Neeraj Pandey and featuring Akshay Kumar in the lead role as an Indian spy tasked with preventing terrorist attacks on home soil. This high-octane espionage saga explores themes of patriotism, duty, and sacrifice while delivering nail-biting action sequences that keep viewers glued to their screens. Supported by a talented ensemble cast including Rana Daggubati, Anupam Kher, and Taapsee Pannu – Baby offers an adrenaline-fueled ride for those who appreciate intelligent thrillers.
5Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 1 is an enthralling crime thriller that delves deep into the dark underbelly of India's coal mafia. Directed by Anurag Kashyap, this film explores themes of power, greed, and violence while presenting a grim portrayal of life in rural India. With its penchant for gritty realism and engaging storytelling, Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 1 features standout performances from Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui and leaves a lasting impression on viewers who appreciate hard-hitting cinema.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
- 6
Building upon the intensity of its predecessor, Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 2 continues the saga of vengeance and bloodshed as it follows the exploits of Faizal Khan (Nawazuddin Siddiqui) in his quest for retribution against his family's enemies. With Anurag Kashyap at the helm once again, this ambitious sequel further delves into themes of betrayal and brutality while maintaining its uncompromising realism. The stunning performances by Siddiqui and Huma Qureshi, coupled with razor-sharp dialogue and taut pacing, ensure that Gangs of Wasseypur - Part 2 retains its place among Hindi cinema's finest thrillers.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
7Ugly
Ronit Roy, Tejaswini Kolhapure, Surveen ChawlaUgly is a haunting psychological thriller helmed by acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap that tells the harrowing tale of a kidnapped girl caught in an intricate web of deceit and betrayal. This dark and gritty film expertly exposes the inherent ugliness within human nature, with its characters driven by greed, lust, and desperation. Featuring riveting performances from Rahul Bhat, Ronit Roy, and Tejaswini Kolhapure – Ugly offers a chilling cinematic experience that leaves viewers pondering the complexities of human behavior.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
8Baazigar is an engrossing Hindi thriller that marked Shah Rukh Khan's shift from romantic hero to anti-hero as he skillfully portrayed a ruthless character seeking revenge for his father's humiliation. Directed by Abbas-Mustan, this suspenseful tale keeps viewers on tenterhooks with unexpected plot twists and a captivating love triangle involving Kajol and Shilpa Shetty. Baazigar's success paved the way for future thrillers in Bollywood, solidifying its place among the genre's finest offerings.
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Abbas Alibhai Burmawalla, Mastan Alibhai Burmawalla
9Talaash is a spellbinding psychological horror-thriller directed by Reema Kagti that explores themes of grief, guilt, and redemption through the eyes of a tormented police officer (Aamir Khan) investigating a series of mysterious accidents. As the story unravels against the backdrop of Mumbai's seedy underbelly, Talaash delves into supernatural elements while maintaining an air of suspense throughout its runtime. With compelling performances from Rani Mukerji and Kareena Kapoor Khan alongside Aamir Khan – Talaash delivers an eerie yet enthralling cinematic experience.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Reema Kagti
10Madras Cafe
John Abraham, Nargis Fakhri, Ajay RatnamMadras Cafe is an intense political thriller directed by Shoojit Sircar that delves into the harrowing world of espionage during the Sri Lankan civil war. Featuring John Abraham as an Indian intelligence officer tasked with thwarting a deadly conspiracy, this film expertly navigates themes of betrayal, loyalty, and geopolitical tensions while delivering edge-of-the-seat excitement. Supported by compelling performances from Nargis Fakhri and Rashi Khanna – Madras Cafe presents a realistic portrayal of international intrigue rarely seen in Hindi cinema.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Shoojit Sircar
11Hera Pheri
Amitabh Bachchan, Saira Banu, Vinod KhannaHera Pheri is a laugh-out-loud comedy-thriller directed by Priyadarshan that follows the misadventures of three hapless individuals (Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Paresh Rawal) who inadvertently become embroiled in a kidnapping plot gone awry. Combining elements of slapstick humor, mistaken identity, and situational comedy – Hera Pheri skillfully blends the thrill of a heist film with uproarious laughter. Bolstered by its memorable catchphrases and iconic performances, this cult classic remains eternally relevant in the hearts of Hindi cinema aficionados.
- Released: 1976
- Directed by: Prakash Mehra
12Paan Singh Tomar
Irrfan Khan, Mahi Gill, Nawazuddin SiddiquiPaan Singh Tomar is a gripping biographical thriller that chronicles the life of an Indian Army soldier turned notorious dacoit after facing grave injustice. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia and featuring a tour de force performance from Irrfan Khan in the titular role, this film takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster ride filled with heartache and retribution. With its authentic portrayal of rural India and evocative storytelling, Paan Singh Tomar offers an enthralling cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits have rolled.
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Tigmanshu Dhulia
13Dhoom 2 is an adrenaline-pumping action-thriller that raised the bar for Bollywood's love affair with high-octane stunts and breathtaking visuals. Directed by Sanjay Gadhvi, this sequel to the immensely popular Dhoom franchise follows Jai Dixit (Abhishek Bachchan) as he attempts to apprehend a master thief known as "Mr. A" (Hrithik Roshan). With its spectacular action sequences, pulsating background score, and sizzling chemistry between Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan – Dhoom 2 keeps viewers enthralled from start to finish.
- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Sanjay Gadhvi
14Nh10
Anushka Sharma, Deepti Naval, Ravi JhankalNH10 is a nerve-wracking thriller that delves into themes of patriarchy, honor killings, and societal pressure through the harrowing journey of a young couple who inadvertently become entangled in violent events while on a road trip. Directed by Navdeep Singh, this film features a powerhouse performance from Anushka Sharma alongside Neil Bhoopalam and Darshan Kumar. Skillfully blending elements of social commentary with suspenseful storytelling – NH10 presents an evocative exploration of India's rural landscape marred by regressive customs.
- Directed by: Navdeep Singh
15Don 2 is a stylish action-thriller that brings Shah Rukh Khan back to his iconic role as the merciless crime lord, Don. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, this high-stakes sequel sees the eponymous character embarking on an ambitious heist to cement his position at the top of the criminal underworld. With its sleek cinematography, suave characters, and exhilarating action sequences – Don 2 delivers an enthralling mix of intrigue and suspense that keeps viewers hooked until the very end.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Farhan Akhtar
16The Villain
Riteish Deshmukh, Shraddha Kapoor, Remo FernandesEk Villain is an intriguing cat-and-mouse thriller directed by Mohit Suri that blurs the line between hero and villain as it explores themes of redemption, love, and revenge. With captivating performances from Sidharth Malhotra, Shraddha Kapoor, and Riteish Deshmukh – this film expertly weaves together multiple plot threads into a gripping narrative complete with unexpected twists. Featuring chart-topping music by Ankit Tiwari, Mithoon, and Soch – Ek Villain offers a thrilling cinematic experience punctuated by moments of heartrending emotion.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Mohit Suri
17Badlapur
Badlapur is a gritty revenge thriller directed by Sriram Raghavan that showcases Varun Dhawan's remarkable transformation from romantic hero to a man consumed by vengeance. The film's absorbing narrative follows Dhawan's character as he embarks on a bloody quest for justice after his wife and son are killed during a bank robbery gone wrong. Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers an outstanding performance as the antagonist, further elevating the tension and drama of this dark tale. Badlapur offers an intense viewing experience steeped in moral ambiguity and thrilling twists.
18Mardaani
Rani Mukherji, Sanjay Taneja, Tahir Raj BhasinMardaani is a hard-hitting thriller helmed by Pradeep Sarkar that shines a spotlight on human trafficking and child abuse in India through the eyes of a determined police officer (Rani Mukerji). This gritty film expertly blends elements of suspense and social commentary while presenting a realistic portrayal of law enforcement's fight against organized crime. With powerful performances from Mukerji and Tahir Raj Bhasin – Mardaani offers an intense viewing experience that educates and entertains in equal measure.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Pradeep Sarkar
19Haider
Shahid Kapoor, Tabu, Shraddha KapoorHaider is an emotionally charged adaptation of William Shakespeare's Hamlet set amidst the turmoil-ridden backdrop of Kashmir valley. Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, this evocative film features Shahid Kapoor as a young man returning home to unravel the truth behind his father's disappearance. With its stark visuals, haunting music, and powerful performances from Tabu, Kay Kay Menon, and Shraddha Kapoor – Haider offers a deeply affecting cinematic experience that lingers long after the curtains have fallen.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Vishal Bhardwaj
20Om Shanti Om is an enchanting blend of romance, comedy, mystery, and reincarnation wrapped up in one entertaining package directed by Farah Khan. This larger-than-life film follows Shah Rukh Khan as he portrays both a star-struck junior artist and his reincarnated self seeking justice for the woman he loved (Deepika Padukone). Featuring chartbusters composed by Vishal-Shekhar, extravagant sets, unforgettable dialogues – Om Shanti Om seamlessly weaves together old-world charm with modern sensibilities for an unforgettable Bollywood extravaganza.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Farah Khan
21Race 2 is a high-octane thriller directed by Abbas-Mustan that takes viewers on a whirlwind adventure filled with deception, double-crossings, and non-stop excitement. Boasting an ensemble cast featuring Saif Ali Khan, Anil Kapoor, John Abraham, Deepika Padukone, Jacqueline Fernandez, and Ameesha Patel – this film presents a tangled web of intrigue where allegiances are constantly shifting. With its slick production values, breathtaking locales, and pulsating background score – Race 2 delivers an adrenaline-fueled viewing experience for fans of action-packed cinema.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Abbas Alibhai Burmawalla
22My Name Is Khan
Shakib Khan, Apu Biswas, Pobir MitroMy Name Is Khan is an emotional rollercoaster ride that follows the journey of an autistic Muslim man (Shah Rukh Khan) who embarks on a quest across America to meet the President and clear his name in a post-9/11 world. Directed by Karan Johar, this thought-provoking film deftly tackles themes of prejudice, fear, and the power of love while showcasing career-defining performances from both Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. With its poignant storytelling and heartfelt message – My Name Is Khan leaves an indelible mark on viewers' hearts.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Bodiual Alam Kokun
23New York
John Abraham, Irrfan Khan, Katrina KaifNew York is an intense thriller directed by Kabir Khan that deftly explores the aftermath of 9/11 on the lives of immigrants in America. Featuring John Abraham, Katrina Kaif, and Neil Nitin Mukesh in pivotal roles – this film presents a gripping tale of friendship tested by extraordinary circumstances leading to shocking revelations. With its thoughtfully nuanced portrayal of sensitive issues and commendable performances from its ensemble cast – New York offers an impactful cinematic experience that resonates with audiences.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Kabir Khan
24Black Friday is a hard-hitting docudrama directed by Anurag Kashyap that provides an unflinching look at the events leading up to and following the devastating 1993 Bombay bombings. Based on S. Hussain Zaidi's book of the same name, this film delves deep into the criminal underworld while deconstructing the motivations behind one of India's most notorious acts of terrorism. With its gritty realism, engrossing screenplay, and powerful performances from Kay Kay Menon, Pawan Malhotra, and Aditya Srivastava – Black Friday remains an essential watch for fans of Hindi cinema.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
25Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!
Sushant Singh Rajput, Swastika Mukherjee, Anand TiwariDetective Byomkesh Bakshy! is an enthralling period thriller set against the backdrop of WWII-era Calcutta that follows India's iconic fictional detective (Sushant Singh Rajput) as he uncovers a sinister conspiracy. Directed by Dibakar Banerjee, this film expertly captures the essence of its source material while presenting a suspenseful narrative rife with twists and turns. With its meticulous attention to detail, engaging plot, and charismatic lead performance – Detective Byomkesh Bakshy! offers a refreshing take on classic whodunit storytelling.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Dibakar Banerjee
26D-Day
Irrfan Khan, Rishi Kapoor, Arjun RampalD-Day is an exhilarating action-thriller directed by Nikkhil Advani that follows four Indian spies as they embark on a covert mission to capture India's most-wanted fugitive hiding in Pakistan. Boasting stellar performances from Irrfan Khan, Rishi Kapoor, Arjun Rampal, Huma Qureshi, and Shruti Haasan – D-Day expertly blends elements of intrigue, patriotism, and high-stakes action to deliver a thrilling cinematic experience. With its taut pacing, crisp dialogue, and realistic portrayal of espionage – this film keeps viewers on their toes from start to finish.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Nikhil Advani
27Bang Bang
Bang Bang is an action-packed rollercoaster ride helmed by Siddharth Anand that follows a young woman (Katrina Kaif) who becomes entangled in a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse with a mysterious thief (Hrithik Roshan). Inspired by the Hollywood flick Knight and Day, this Bollywood adaptation ups the ante with jaw-dropping stunts, sizzling chemistry between its lead pair, and chart-busting music that sets the perfect backdrop for this adrenaline-fueled adventure. With its stunning visuals and relentless pace – Bang Bang offers non-stop entertainment for thrill-seekers.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Mihee-Nathalie Lemoine
28Gunday
Priyanka Chopra, Irrfan Khan, Victor BanerjeeGunday is an exhilarating action-thriller directed by Ali Abbas Zafar that chronicles the rise and fall of two childhood friends (Ranveer Singh and Arjun Kapoor) who become Calcutta's most infamous gangsters during the 1970s and 1980s. With its pulsating narrative, pitch-perfect period setting, and dynamic lead performances – Gunday offers a thrilling ride through India's criminal underworld replete with high-stakes action sequences, rousing music composed by Sohail Sen, and a passionate love triangle featuring Priyanka Chopra.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Ali Abbas Zafar
29Phantom
Phantom is an adrenaline-fueled action thriller directed by Kabir Khan that follows two unlikely allies (Saif Ali Khan and Katrina Kaif) as they embark on a covert mission to eliminate terrorists responsible for the 2008 Mumbai attacks. With its gripping plot, high-stakes action sequences, and palpable chemistry between its lead pair – Phantom offers an intense viewing experience that keeps viewers captivated from start to finish. This film expertly balances themes of vengeance, patriotism, morality while delivering edge-of-the-seat excitement.
30Kurbaan
Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Dia MirzaKurbaan is an intense romantic-thriller directed by Rensil D'Silva that delves into themes of terrorism, love, and betrayal as it explores the turbulent relationship between Saif Ali Khan's charming professor-turned-terrorist and Kareena Kapoor's unsuspecting wife who discovers his dark secret. Featuring powerful performances from its ensemble cast that includes Om Puri, Dia Mirza, and Vivek Oberoi – Kurbaan deftly weaves together elements of suspense, action, and romance for a captivating cinematic experience.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Renzil D'Silva
31Kick is an action-packed extravaganza directed by Sajid Nadiadwala that sees Salman Khan in his element as he portrays an enigmatic man with a penchant for daring heists and death-defying stunts. This high-octane thriller features Jacqueline Fernandez as Khan's love interest while Randeep Hooda plays the determined cop hot on his trail. Boasting breathtaking action sequences, catchy songs composed by Himesh Reshammiya, and Salman Khan's trademark charisma – Kick delivers all the requisite ingredients for a quintessential Bollywood blockbuster.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Sajid Nadiadwala
32Dhoom: 3
Katrina Kaif, Abhishek Bachchan, Aamir KhanDhoom 3: Back in Action is a high-octane action-thriller that takes the popular franchise to dizzying new heights under the direction of Vijay Krishna Acharya. Boasting breathtaking stunts, jaw-dropping visuals, and an ensemble cast led by Aamir Khan as the enigmatic circus artist-turned-criminal mastermind – this film expertly combines elements of suspenseful storytelling with relentless excitement fueled by daring heists and spectacular chase sequences. With its chart-topping music composed by Pritam, Dhoom 3: Back in Action offers a thrilling cinematic experience that leaves viewers breathless.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Vijay Krishna Acharya
33Ek Paheli Leela
Ek Paheli Leela is an enthralling romantic-thriller directed by Bobby Khan that weaves together themes of reincarnation, destiny, and forbidden love as it traces Sunny Leone's journey from London-based model to Rajasthan royalty in search of her mysterious past life. Featuring beautiful landscapes, opulent costumes, and catchy songs composed by Amaal Mallik – Ek Paheli Leela transports viewers to a world where love transcends time as it explores themes of obsession, betrayal, and redemption amidst a complex web of intrigue.
34Bombay Velvet
Anushka Sharma, Ranbir Kapoor, Raveena TandonBombay Velvet is an ambitious period thriller directed by Anurag Kashyap set against the backdrop of Mumbai's rapid transformation during the mid-20th century. Featuring a star-studded cast led by Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Karan Johar – this film expertly captures the glamour and intrigue of post-independence India with its lavish sets, intricate plotlines, and memorable characters. With its striking visuals and engaging narrative – Bombay Velvet presents a fascinating glimpse into India's tumultuous history through the lens of Hindi cinema.
- Directed by: Anurag Kashyap
35Kill Dil
Ranveer Singh, Ali Zafar, Parineeti ChopraKill Dil is an action-packed romantic thriller directed by Shaad Ali that follows two ruthless assassins (Ranveer Singh and Ali Zafar) who find their loyalties tested when love enters their lives in the form of Parineeti Chopra's free-spirited character. With its captivating blend of high-stakes action, romance, and suspense – Kill Dil keeps viewers on tenterhooks as they unravel the complex relationships between its enigmatic characters. Accompanied by foot-tapping music composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy – this film offers a thrilling cinematic experience punctuated with moments of heartfelt emotion.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Shaad Ali
36Mr. X
Ashok Kumar, Pran, HelenMr. X is a thrilling sci-fi action film directed by Vikram Bhatt that follows Emraan Hashmi as an anti-terrorism officer who acquires the power of invisibility after a deadly experiment goes awry. With this newfound ability, he embarks on a quest for justice against corrupt officials and criminals while evading his former colleagues who see him as a threat to national security. Boasting cutting-edge special effects, breakneck pacing, and nail-biting action sequences – Mr. X offers viewers a rollercoaster ride of suspense and excitement that keeps them guessing until the very end.
- Released: 1957
- Directed by: Nanabhai Bhatt
