The Marathi film industry is one of India’s oldest and most pioneering film industries. The first Indian feature film, ‘Raja Harishchandra,’ directed by Dadasaheb Phalke, was a Marathi movie. Dadasaheb Phalke is regarded as the founder of Indian cinema. ‘Sant Tukaram’ was the first Indian work to win the Best Film Award at the Venice Film Festival in 1937. In 1954, at the inaugural National Awards, ‘Shyamchi Aai,’ another Marathi movie directed by Acharya P. K. Atre, won the first President’s Gold Medal for Cinema. Marathi industries is one of the very less explored film industry which has produced many great movies. If you are a fan of good movies, this article is for you to explore the best Marathi movies of all time.
The industry has produced legends like V. Shantaram, Master Vinayak, Bhalji Pendharkar, Acharya Atre, and many others. As of 2018, the Marathi industry has received five National Film Awards in the Best Feature Film category. So in this article, we will embark on a cinematic journey through the top 20 best Marathi movies of all time. From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies, Marathi cinema has it all. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Marathi cinema’s finest creations.
Best Marathi Movies List –
Table of Contents
1. Sairat (2016)
Sairat is an Indian Marathi Language and Romantic Tragedy film released on 29 April 2016. The movie is directed and produced by Nagraj Manjule under the Aatpat Production and Essel Vision Productions and Zee Studios. The main cast of the movie is Rinku Rajguru and Akash Thosar in their first debut. The story is about two young college students from different castes who fall in love, which sparks conflict between their families. The film is shot in the Manjule’s village Jeur in Karmala Taluka of Solapur District in Maharashtra. The movie is one of the Best Marathi films of all time.
2. Baipan Bhari Deva (2023)
Baipan Bhari Deva is an Indian Marathi Language Drama film. The film was released on 30th June 2023. The director of the film is Kedar Shinde and it was Produced by Jio Studio, EmVeeBee Media. The Movie featured Shilpa Navalkar, Suchitra Bandekar, and Deepa Parab due to its Box Office Collection of over ₹90.5 crore in 50 days. It is added to the list of one of the Best Marathi films of all time.
3. Sachin: A Billion Dreams
Sachin: A Billion Dreams is an Indian documentary sports film released on May 26, 2017. The film is directed by James Erskine and produced by Ravi Bhagchandka and Shrikant Bhasi under the banner 200 NotOut Productions and Carnival Motion Pictures. The film is a documentary on the life of the Indian Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar. It shows Tendulkar’s personal and cricket journey and a few aspects of his life. The film was shot in Marathi, Hindi, English and dubbed in Tamil and Telugu. It is also one of the best Marathi films of all time.
4. Ved (2022)
Ved is the Indian Marathi language and romantic drama film released on 30 December 2022. The film is directed by Ritesh Deshmukh and produced by Genelia D’Souza. The movie is a remake of the Telugu language romantic drama Majili. The movie features Jiya Shankar, Ashok Saraf, Genelia D’Souza, and Ritesh Deshmukh in the main lead roles.
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5. Natasamrat (2016)
Natasamrat is an Indian Marathi Language drama film, released on 1 January 2016. The film is directed by Mahesh Manjrekar and produced by Nana Patekar and Vishwas The movie stars Nana Patekar in the main lead role. The movie is based on a Marathi play, it shows the tragic life of a stage actor who is retired from acting.
6. Pawankhind (2022)
Pawankhind is a 2022 Indian Marathi-language historical action drama film. Directed by Digpal Lanjekar and produced under the banner of Almonds Creations in association with AA Films, this cinematic masterpiece is based on the extraordinary life of the Maratha warrior, Baji Prabhu Deshpande. The film features a stellar cast including Chinmay Mandlekar, Mrinal Kulkarni, Ajay Purkar, and Sameer Dharmadhikari, along with Ankit Mohan, Prajakta Mali, and Kshitee Jog in supporting roles.
Pawankhind is the third installment in an eight-film series that delves into the rich history of the Maratha Empire. It stands as the fifth highest-grossing Marathi film of all time and the second highest-grossing Marathi film of 2022, solidifying its place among the best Marathi movies of the year.
7. Katyar Kaljat Ghusali (2015)
Katyar Kaljat Ghusali is a Marathi-language epic musical drama film released in 2015. It is an adaptation of a play with the same title. Subodh Bhave directed the film, featuring Sachin Pilgaonkar, Shankar Mahadevan, and Subodh Bhave in pivotal roles. This marked Bhave’s directorial debut and Mahadevan’s first foray into theatrical acting. The original play, written by Purushottam Darvhekar, debuted in Mumbai in 1967, with Hindustani classical vocalist Vasantrao Deshpande playing a key role.
In 2010, the play was reintroduced with Rahul Deshpande, Vasantrao Deshpande’s grandson, and singer Mahesh Kale in the lead roles. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, includes some of the songs from Jitendra Abhisheki’s original play compositions.
Katyar Kaljat Ghusali gained recognition, being chosen as one of the 26 films featured at the 46th International Film Festival of India in Goa. For enthusiasts of Marathi cinema, this movie stands out as one of the best Marathi movies or top Marathi movies, offering a captivating blend of drama, music, and cultural richness.
8. Timepass 2 (2015)
Timepass 2, is a captivating 2015 Indian Marathi-language film skillfully directed by Ravi Jadhav. Serving as the sequel to the beloved 2014 movie Timepass, this film picks up where its first movie ends, delving deeper into the romantic tale of Dagadu (Rocky) and Prajakta (Praju). The stellar cast includes Bhalchandra Kadam and Vaibhav Mangle, adding their brilliance to the storyline. Ravi Jadhav once again takes the helm in bringing this heartwarming narrative to life. Dive into the magic of one of the best Marathi movies, as Timepass 2 takes you on a journey through love and laughter.
9. Dagadi Chawl (2015)
Dagadi Chawl, a 2015 Marathi action drama thriller directed by Chandrakant Kanse, is a notable film in the Marathi cinema. Produced by Sai Pooja Films & Entertainments and presented by Manglmurti Films, the movie boasts a talented ensemble cast including Ankush Chaudhari, Makarand Deshpande, and Pooja Sawant in lead roles. Ankush Chaudhari, following the success of Classmates and Double Seat, delivered a compelling performance in this film.
The film was released on 2 October 2015 and quickly became a hit, especially for Ankush Chaudhari. Fans uniquely expressed their love by pouring milk on a large poster of Ankush Chaudhari outside Bharat Mata Cinema Hall in Mumbai, marking a historic moment in Marathi cinema.
“Dagadi Chaawl” was dubbed into Hindi as “Daagdi Chaawl Ek Bagawat” and had its Marathi and Hindi world television premieres on 12 June 2016, airing on Star Pravah and STAR Gold, respectively. Notably, it became the first Marathi film.
10. Lai Bhaari (2014)
Lai Bhaari is a 2014 Marathi action drama film directed by Nishikant Kamat. Riteish Deshmukh made his Marathi cinema debut in this film, which also features cameo appearances by Salman Khan and Genelia D’Souza. Notably, it was the first Marathi film produced on such a grand scale, achieving the status of the highest-grossing Marathi film at that time and earning blockbuster recognition at the box office.
The film’s popularity speaks to its status as one of the best Marathi movies, capturing the audience’s attention and becoming a significant success in the Marathi film industry.
11. Me Vasantrao (2022)
Me Vasantrao is a 2022 Marathi biographical film that delves into the life of Vasantrao Deshpande, an iconic Indian classical musician. Crafted by the talented team of Nipun Dharmadhikari and Upendra Sidhaye, with Nipun Dharmadhikari at the helm, this cinematic masterpiece features Rahul Deshpande, the grandson of Vasantrao Deshpande, in a captivating lead role. Notably, ‘Me Vasantrao’ earned a coveted spot on the eligibility list for the prestigious Academy Awards on January 10, 2023, marking a remarkable achievement for Marathi cinema. The film’s enchanting music, available globally since March 8, 2022, is under the esteemed music label OnClick Music, affiliated with Movietone Digital Entertainment Pvt Ltd. Explore this cinematic gem, showcasing the best in Marathi movies.
12. Godavari (2021)
Godavari is a compelling Marathi-language drama film from 2021, is directed by Nikhil Mahajan and produced by a talented team including Jitendra Joshi, Mitali Joshi, Pavan Malu, and Nikhil Mahajan, all working under the banner of Blue Drop Films. The film features Jitendra Joshi in a leading role, supported by a stellar cast including Neena Kulkarni, Sanjay Mone, Vikram Gokhale, and Gauri Nalawade, portraying pivotal characters. The narrative revolves around a family residing along the banks of the Godavari River in Nashik.
Making its debut at the 2021 Vancouver International Film Festival on October 4, 2021, the film later hit theatres on November 11, 2022. Godavari garnered positive acclaim from both critics and audiences alike. Notably, at the 69th National Film Awards, the film achieved recognition with an award for Best Direction. Furthermore, at the 7th Filmfare Awards Marathi, Godavari received an impressive 12 nominations, securing victories in five categories, including Best Film, Best Director (Mahajan), and Best Actor Critics (Joshi).
For enthusiasts seeking the best Marathi movies or the top Marathi movies, Godavari stands out as a must-watch, delivering a compelling narrative against the backdrop of Nashik’s Godavari River.
13. Panghrun (2022)
Panghrun is a Marathi-language period musical drama directed by Mahesh Manjrekar and produced by Zee Studios, stars Amol Bhavadekar and Gauri Ingawale in prominent roles. This cinematic masterpiece earned the prestigious “Best Indian Cinema Award (2020)” at the Bangalore International Film Festival. Panghrun, recognized as one of the top Marathi movies, had its theatrical release in Maharashtra on February 4, 2022. Experience the richness of Marathi cinema with Panghrun!
14. Anandi Gopal (2019)
Experience one of the Top Marathi movies with ‘Anandi Gopal,’ a compelling 2019 Indian Marathi Biographical film directed by Sameer Vidwans. Karan Sharma and Irawati Karnik skillfully penned the story, which revolves around the remarkable life of Anandi Gopal Joshi. Akash Chawla and Shareen Mantri Kedia collaborated to produce this cinematic gem. Bhagyashree Milind shines in the role of Anandi Gopal Joshi, while Lalit Prabhakar portrays Gopalrao Joshi. Immerse yourself in the captivating narrative of this best Marathi movie that beautifully unfolds the inspiring journey of Anandi Gopal Joshi.
15. Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai (2010)
Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai is a Marathi romantic drama film released in 2010, by director and co-writer Satish Rajwade. Starring Swapnil Joshi and Mukta Barve, the movie revolves around a love story between two unnamed characters from Pune and Mumbai. Their unique tale unfolds, showcasing the amalgamation of their competitive spirits. This cinematic creation proved to be both a critical and commercial triumph, making waves at the box office. The success prompted the release of a sequel, Mumbai-Pune-Mumbai 2, on November 12, 2015.
This Marathi gem has transcended language barriers, with remakes in Hindi titled Mumbai Delhi Mumbai (2014), Kannada as Pyarge Aagbittaite, Telugu as Made in Vizag, and Punjabi as Chandigarh Amritsar Chandigarh. In Gujarati, the remake is aptly named “Taari Saathe.” For enthusiasts of the best Marathi movies or those seeking top Marathi films, this cinematic masterpiece promises an immersive experience.
16. Deool (2011)
One of the top Marathi movies, ‘Deool’ is a 2011 Indian Marathi dark comedy directed by Umesh Vinayak Kulkarni. Starring Girish Kulkarni, Nana Patekar, Dilip Prabhawalkar, Sharvani Pillai, and Sonali Kulkarni, the film delves into the impact of globalization on small Indian towns and the challenging conditions in Indian villages against a political backdrop.
Recognized at the 59th National Film Awards, ‘Deool’ clinched accolades for Best Feature Film, Best Actor (Girish Kulkarni), and Best Dialogue (Girish Kulkarni). Notably, this film marks the Marathi industry debut of veteran Hindi actor Naseeruddin Shah.
Experience the compelling narrative of ‘Deool,’ one of the best Marathi movies, shedding light on the issues faced by rural India in the era of globalization.
17. Dr. Prakash Baba Amte: The Real Hero (2014)
Discover one of the Top Marathi Movies, “Dr. Prakash Baba Amte – The Real Hero.” This Marathi film stars renowned actors Nana Patekar, Sonali Kulkarni, and Mohan Agashe in pivotal roles. The movie serves as a biopic, shedding light on the remarkable life of Dr. Prakash Baba Amte, son of the revered social worker Baba Amte, and his wife Mandakini Amte. Dr. Prakash Amte, a dedicated doctor and social worker, commits his life to the progress and upliftment of tribal communities residing in the forests of eastern Maharashtra state. Explore the inspiring journey of a real hero in this captivating Marathi film, considered among the best Marathi movies.
18. Ventilator (2012)
Ventilator is a 2016 Indian Marathi-language comedy-drama film written and directed by Rajesh Mapuskar and produced by Priyanka Chopra. With an ensemble cast of over 100 actors, including Ashutosh Gowariker, Jitendra Joshi, Sulbha Arya, and Sukanya Kulkarni, the movie revolves around the Kamerkar family. The plot unfolds as their eldest member falls into a coma, necessitating the use of a medical ventilator just days before the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
Mapuskar drew inspiration for the film from a personal experience when a family member was hospitalized and put on a ventilator. Observing his family’s reactions, he decided to inject humor into the challenging situation. Despite initial skepticism from producers about making a Marathi film, Priyanka Chopra, under her production company Purple Pebble Pictures, embraced the project.
19. Fandry (2013)
Fandry, a captivating 2013 Marathi film, marked Nagraj Manjule’s impressive directorial debut. Starring Somnath Awghade and Rajeshwari Kharat, the plot delves into a poignant love story amid the harsh reality of caste-based discrimination. Set in the village of Akolner near Ahmednagar, the film revolves around a teenage boy from a Dalit family, residing on the village outskirts, who falls in love with a girl from an upper caste.
This impactful movie earned recognition by winning the Grand Jury Prize at the Mumbai International Film Festival and was strategically released on Valentine’s Day in 2014. Garnering critical acclaim, it also secured the prestigious Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a Director at the 61st National Film Awards.
For enthusiasts of Marathi cinema, Fandry stands out as one of the best Marathi movies, weaving a compelling narrative around the theme of caste discrimination and young love.
20. Jogwa (2009)
Jogwa – The Awakening, a 2009 Marathi film directed by Rajiv Patil and produced by iDream Productions, features Upendra Limaye and Mukta Barve in lead roles, with supporting performances by Priya Berde, Vinay Apte, Sharvani Pillai, and Kishor Kadam. The film earned acclaim, winning five national film awards in 2008, including Best Film on Social Issues, Best Actor for Upendra Limaye, Best Music Direction for Ajay Atul, and Best Male and Female Playback Singers for Hariharan and Shreya Ghoshal, respectively.
Exploring strong romantic themes, the movie delves into the lives of rural Maharashtra devotees of Goddess Yellamma, known as “Jogtin ” (female) and “Jogta” (male). These individuals, considered semi-respected slaves, are compelled to surrender their lives in service to God. The term ‘Jogwa’ refers to alms given to Jogtas or Jogtins. The narrative sheds light on the societal pressures forcing Jogtas to abandon personal desires, and Jogtins to forgo marriage, children, and personal lives.
The film portrays a love story between Jogta (Upendra Limaye) and Jogtin (Mukta Barve), revealing the hardships faced by an oppressed society bound by archaic traditions and superstitions in rural India. ‘Jogwa’ narrates a poignant tale of a woman’s journey to break free from discrimination, sexual oppression, and servitude in pursuit of true happiness.
Forbes acknowledged Upendra Limaye’s performance in ‘Jogwa’ on its list of “25 Greatest Acting Performances of Indian Cinema” during the centenary of Indian cinema in April 2013. This powerful film is a noteworthy addition to the best Marathi movies or top Marathi movies, showcasing a compelling narrative and stellar performances.
These Marathi films have received critical acclaim, won awards, and left a lasting impact on the world of Indian cinema. Feel free to explore these movies and discover the rich and diverse cinematic heritage of Marathi cinema. And for more such trending blogs and articles “DO FOLLOW” Trendpickle website.
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1. What is the significance of ‘Sairat’ in Marathi cinema?
– “Sairat” is a groundbreaking Indian Marathi romantic tragedy film released in 2016. Directed and produced by Nagraj Manjule, it explores the challenges of inter-caste love between two college students and is considered one of the best Marathi films of all time.
2. Can you provide information about ‘Pawankhind’?
– “Pawankhind” is a 2022 Marathi historical action drama directed by Digpal Lanjekar. It portrays the life of Maratha warrior Baji Prabhu Deshpande. The film, featuring Chinmay Mandlekar and Mrinal Kulkarni, is the third installment in an eight-film series exploring Maratha history.
3. Tell me more about ‘Katyar Kaljat Ghusali.?
– “Katyar Kaljat Ghusali” is a 2015 Marathi epic musical drama directed by Subodh Bhave. Based on a play of the same name, it features Sachin Pilgaonkar and Shankar Mahadevan. The film explores the world of classical music and marks Bhave’s directorial debut.
4. What is the plot of ‘Timepass 2’?
“Timepass 2” is a captivating 2015 Marathi film directed by Ravi Jadhav. It serves as a sequel to the 2014 movie “Timepass” and follows the romantic tale of Dagadu (Rocky) and Prajakta (Praju). Bhalchandra Kadam and Vaibhav Mangle play key roles in this heartwarming narrative.
5. Could you provide details about ‘Lai Bhaari’?
“Lai Bhaari” is a 2014 Marathi action drama directed by Nishikant Kamat. It marks Riteish Deshmukh’s Marathi cinema debut and became the highest-grossing Marathi film at the time. The movie explores themes of action and drama, making it a significant success.
6. What makes ‘Court’ stand out among Marathi movies?
“Court” is a 2014 Indian legal drama, marking Chaitanya Tamhane’s directorial debut. It provides a thought-provoking insight into the Indian legal system and won critical acclaim. The film received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film at the 62nd National Film Awards.
