10 Lesser-Known Indian Movies You Must Watch
Indian cinema is often synonymous with Bollywood, with its larger-than-life stars, extravagant song-and-dance routines, and blockbuster films. However, India’s rich cinematic landscape extends far beyond these mainstream films. Across the country, filmmakers have been creating hidden gems—films that offer unique perspectives, powerful narratives, and exceptional performances. These lesser-known films often fly under the radar but deserve attention for their craft and storytelling. Here are 10 unknown Indian movies you must watch to explore the diverse and underrated side of Indian cinema.
1. Court (2015) – Marathi
Director: Chaitanya Tamhane
Winner of numerous international awards,
Court is a quietly devastating critique of the Indian legal system and its bureaucratic inefficiencies. The film revolves around the trial of a folk singer who is accused of inciting a sewage worker's suicide through his lyrics. Through a seemingly mundane courtroom drama,
Court brilliantly highlights the absurdities of the justice system, societal prejudices, and the clash between modernity and tradition.
Why Watch: It offers a slow-burn, thought-provoking reflection on India’s legal system with an understated, realistic approach that contrasts sharply with mainstream courtroom dramas.
2. Kumbalangi Nights (2019) – Malayalam
Director: Madhu C. Narayanan
Kumbalangi Nights is a slice-of-life drama set in a small fishing village in Kerala. The film beautifully explores the complexities of family relationships, particularly between four brothers who struggle to reconcile their differences. With stunning cinematography, subtle yet powerful performances, and an emotionally rich narrative, this film dives into themes of masculinity, love, and redemption.
Why Watch: The film’s layered storytelling and strong character development make it a standout piece in Malayalam cinema, and it offers a heartwarming look at human connections.
3. A Death in the Gunj (2016) – Hindi
Director: Konkona Sen Sharma
Konkona Sen Sharma’s directorial debut,
A Death in the Gunj, is a haunting and atmospheric drama set in 1979. The story follows a shy and sensitive young man named Shutu as he joins his family on a holiday to a small hill station. As tensions simmer beneath the surface, the film slowly builds to a tragic and inevitable conclusion. The film’s subtle exploration of human emotions, combined with its eerie, slow-burning tension, makes it a compelling watch.
Why Watch: Its quiet, nuanced storytelling and powerful performances make it an emotional and thought-provoking exploration of mental health and family dynamics.
4. Thithi (2015) – Kannada
Director: Raam Reddy
Thithi is a comedic drama set in a remote village in Karnataka, where the death of a 101-year-old man sets off a series of events that involve three generations of his family. The film’s strength lies in its authenticity—non-professional actors, real village settings, and a grounded, earthy narrative that offers an insightful look into rural life in India. It’s a heartwarming, humorous, and realistic portrayal of family dynamics and tradition.
Why Watch: The film’s raw, natural performances and its humorous take on death and family make it an unforgettable watch.
5. Ship of Theseus (2013) – Hindi/English
Director: Anand Gandhi
Ship of Theseus is a philosophical exploration of identity, morality, and existence. The film intertwines three seemingly unrelated stories: a blind photographer who regains her sight, a monk who debates the ethics of organ donation, and a stockbroker who stumbles upon an organ trafficking racket. Each story delves into profound questions about the self, the body, and the nature of consciousness, making it a unique cinematic experience.
Why Watch: The film’s deep philosophical themes and stunning visual storytelling make it a must-watch for anyone interested in films that challenge conventional narratives.
6. Soni (2018) – Hindi
Director: Ivan Ayr
Soni is a quiet, yet powerful, drama about two women police officers in Delhi who are navigating their personal and professional challenges. The film sheds light on the struggles of working women in a patriarchal society, the pervasive nature of sexism, and the moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement officers. The film’s realistic portrayal of its characters and its minimalist approach make it a gripping and empathetic watch.
Why Watch: For its subtle yet impactful depiction of gender dynamics, police work, and the personal struggles of women in India’s capital city.
7. Natarang (2010) – Marathi
Director: Ravi Jadhav
Set in the 1970s,
Natarang tells the story of Guna, a poor laborer who dreams of becoming a stage actor in the traditional Marathi Tamasha theatre. When Guna is forced to take on the role of a feminine character, he faces societal rejection and personal turmoil. The film explores themes of gender identity, artistic ambition, and social stigma. With powerful performances and a compelling narrative,
Natarang is an emotional and inspiring film.
Why Watch: It’s a moving tale of dreams, identity, and perseverance, with remarkable performances, particularly by lead actor Atul Kulkarni.
8. Liar’s Dice (2013) – Hindi
Director: Geetu Mohandas
Liar’s Dice is a road drama about a young mother and her daughter who embark on a journey to find her missing husband, accompanied by a mysterious man who offers to help them. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Himalayan landscape, the film explores themes of migration, exploitation, and human resilience. With its minimal dialogue and meditative pace, the film creates a haunting, emotional atmosphere.
Why Watch: The film’s visual beauty and poignant storytelling make it a powerful exploration of loss, survival, and the human condition.
9. Village Rockstars (2017) – Assamese
Director: Rima Das
This coming-of-age film, set in rural Assam, tells the story of a young girl named Dhunu who dreams of owning a guitar and forming a rock band. Despite living in poverty, Dhunu’s spirit and determination drive her toward her seemingly impossible dream. The film, shot with a naturalistic style using non-professional actors, captures the beauty and struggles of rural life with grace and sensitivity.
Why Watch: Village Rockstars is a heartwarming and inspiring story of dreams, resilience, and childhood, making it a beautiful and uplifting watch.
10. Masaan (2015) – Hindi
Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
Masaan is a poignant drama that intertwines two stories set along the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi. One story follows a young woman dealing with societal shame after a sexual encounter, while the other revolves around a young man from a lower caste who dreams of escaping his circumstances. The film is a moving exploration of love, loss, and societal constraints, and it handles complex issues like caste discrimination and gender inequality with sensitivity and grace.
Why Watch: The film’s evocative storytelling and its powerful performances by newcomers Vicky Kaushal and Richa Chadha make it a must-watch for fans of meaningful cinema.
Final Thoughts:
These lesser-known films are proof that Indian cinema extends far beyond the boundaries of mainstream Bollywood. Each of these movies offers a unique perspective on life, culture, and society, often tackling difficult issues with sensitivity, authenticity, and creativity. From rural dramas to philosophical explorations, these films showcase the diversity and richness of Indian storytelling. If you’re looking for films that break away from the norm and offer fresh, meaningful experiences, these 10 hidden gems are must-watches.
