India boasts a vibrant film industry that churns out a staggering number of movies each year, encompassing Bollywood and regional cinema. The most expensive movies in India come from all spaces. Bollywood, based primarily in Mumbai, is renowned worldwide for its extravagant productions and catchy musical numbers, often capturing the hearts of audiences across the globe. However, India’s cinematic landscape extends far beyond Bollywood, with regional industries such as Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and others contributing immensely to the diversity and richness of Indian cinema. Over the years, the art of filmmaking has evolved into a highly commercialised venture, with budgets skyrocketing and box office returns becoming paramount. Also Read: Business of Entertainment: Some post-Covid recovery in 2023, but choppy waters ahead
Top 10 most expensive movies in India
Here is 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Kalki 2898 AD | 600 crores | Nag Ashwin | Amitabh Bachchan Kamal Haasan Prabhas |
| #2 2.0 | 570 crores | S Shankar | Rajinikanth Akshay Kumar Amy Jackson |
| #3 RRR | 550 crores | SS Rajamouli | N. T. Rama Rao Jr. Ram Charan Ajay Devgn Alia Bhatt |
| #4 Adipurush | 500 crores | Om Raut | Prabhas Saif Ali Khan Kriti Sanon |
| #5 Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 | 500 crores | Mani Ratnam | Vikram Karthi Jayam Ravi Aishwarya Rai Bachchan |
| #6 Brahmastra | 410 cores | Ayan Mukerji | Amitabh Bachchan Ranbir Kapoor Alia Bhatt |
| #7 The Good Maharaja | 400 crores | Vikash Verma | Sanjay Dutt Dhruv Verma |
| #8 Saaho | 350 crores | Sujeeth | Prabhas Shraddha Kapoor |
| #9 Radhe Shyam | 350 crores | Radha Krishna Kumar | Prabhas Pooja Hegde |
| #10 Thugs of Hindostan | 240 crores | Aditya Chopra | Amitabh Bachchan Aamir Khan Katrina Kaif |
It’s time for a closer look at the most expensive movies in India, which showcase the country’s cinematic extravagance and allure.Also Read: From Jawan to Bigg Boss 17, most searched movies and shows in India in 2023 according to Google Trends
Kalki 2898 AD
- Year of Release: 2022
- Studio: Star Studios
2.0
- Year of Release: 2018
- Studio: Lyca Productions
Directed by S Shankar, 2.0 is a monumental achievement in Indian cinema, boasting groundbreaking visual effects and a gripping storyline. Featuring the iconic Rajinikanth alongside Akshay Kumar, the film explores themes of environmentalism and technological advancement. With its massive budget, 2.0 set a new standard for Indian sci-fi action films, captivating audiences with its spectacular visuals and imaginative narrative.
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RRR
- Year of Release: 2022
- Studio: DVV Entertainment
Helmed by the visionary director SS Rajamouli (renowned for the Baahubali franchise), RRR is an epic period drama that transports viewers to the pre-independence era. Starring Ram Charan and NT Rama Rao Jr., in leading roles, the film narrates a tale of valour and patriotism. RRR also achieved significant recognition at the 2023 Oscars, with its song Naatu Naatu winning the title of ‘Best Original Song’.Also Read: Prime Video unveils its biggest content slate with close to 70 movies and series
Adipurush
- Year of Release: 2023
- Studio: T-Series Films
Directed by Om Raut, Adipurush is a retelling of the mythological epic featuring Prabhas in the role of Lord Rama. With its lavish sets and cutting-edge visual effects, Adipurush represents a monumental endeavour in Indian filmmaking, aiming to bring ancient tales to life on the big screen. However, the film tanked at the box office and was criticised for its quality of writing. Also Read: Top 10 highest-paid actors in the world
Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1
- Year of Release: 2022
- Studio: Madras Talkies
Ponniyin Selvan: Part 1 is a cinematic adaptation of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s classic novel. Set against the backdrop of the Chola dynasty, the film follows the journey of Arulmozhivarman, a young prince striving to reclaim his rightful throne and uphold justice in the kingdom. The cast, led by Vikram as Aditya Karikalan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as Nandini, delivers compelling performances.
Brahmastra
- Year of Release: 2022
- Studio: Star Studios
Brahmastra is a film that combines elements of mythology, fantasy, and adventure to create an engaging cinematic experience. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, the movie follows the journey of Shiva, played by Ranbir Kapoor, as he discovers his extraordinary powers and sets out to uncover the secrets of an ancient weapon known as the Brahmastra. Alongside him, Alia Bhatt, as Isha, participates in Shiva’s quest. The film features stunning visual effects and a talented ensemble cast, including Amitabh Bachchan.
The Good Maharaja
- Year of Release: Not released
- Studio: G7 Films Poland
The Good Maharaja delves into the life of Maharaja Jam Sahib Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji of Nawanagar during World War II. As the ruler of a small princely state in India, Maharaja Jam Sahib takes extraordinary measures to protect Polish refugees fleeing the Nazi regime, showcasing his humanitarian efforts amidst global turmoil.
Saaho
- Year of Release: 2019
- Studio: UV Creations
Saaho revolves around a mysterious character, played by Prabhas, who finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and betrayal after a heist gone wrong. As the story unfolds, he embarks on a mission to uncover the truth behind the robbery and the people involved. Along the way, he encounters various challenges, including dangerous adversaries and unexpected allies, as he navigates through a world filled with intrigue and danger. The film is a rollercoaster of action-packed sequences, thrilling twists, and turns that keep audiences on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Radhe Shyam
- Year of Release: 2022
- Studio: UV Creations
Directed by Radha Krishna Kumar, Radhe Shyam is a romantic drama set against the picturesque backdrop of Europe. Starring Prabhas and Pooja Hegde, the film weaves a tale of love, destiny, and serendipity. With its stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Radhe Shyam aims to enchant audiences with its romantic charm and cinematic splendour.
Thugs of Hindostan
- Year of Release: 2018
- Studio: Yash Raj Films
Despite mixed critical reception, Thugs of Hindostan remains one of the most ambitious projects in Indian cinema. Directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya and featuring Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan, the film is set against the backdrop of British colonial India. With its lavish sets, larger-than-life action sequences, and star-studded cast, Thugs of Hindostan represents a bold attempt to redefine the historical epic genre in Indian filmmaking.