12 Must Watch Marathi Movies of All Time

Written By: Absar Ahmad

Marathi cinema has come a long way over the years, with its unique storytelling and captivating performances. From heartwarming dramas to thought-provoking social commentaries, Marathi movies have made their mark on the Indian film industry. If you are a fan of regional cinema and looking to explore some of the best Marathi movies of all time, then you are in for a treat! Here is a list of 10 must-watch Marathi movies that have left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike, along with some notable mentions.

List of movies

1. Kaksparsh (2012): Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, Kaksparsh is a poignant drama set in pre-independence Maharashtra. The film revolves around the story of a Brahmin family and their struggles with caste discrimination, superstitions, and societal norms. With stellar performances by Sachin Khedekar and Priya Bapat, Kaksparsh is a powerful portrayal of human emotions and social issues.

2. Harishchandrachi Factory (2009): Directed by Paresh Mokashi, Harishchandrachi Factory is a biographical drama that depicts the journey of Dadasaheb Phalke, the father of Indian cinema, in making India’s first silent film Raja Harishchandra. This film showcases Phalke’s relentless pursuit of his passion, his struggles, and his unwavering determination to make his dream a reality.

3. Katyar Kaljat Ghusali (2015): Directed by Subodh Bhave, Katyar Kaljat Ghusali is a musical drama based on a famous Marathi musical play of the same name. The film showcases the rivalry between two classical singers and their quest for supremacy in the world of music. With soulful melodies, breathtaking performances, and rich visuals, Katyar Kaljat Ghusali is a treat for music lovers.

4. Mulshi Pattern (2018): Directed by Pravin Vitthal Tarde, Mulshi Pattern is a gritty crime drama that sheds light on the issue of land grabbing and its impact on rural communities. The film follows the story of a young man who gets drawn into a life of crime due to circumstances beyond his control. With its realistic portrayal of social issues, Mulshi Pattern is a hard-hitting and intense film that leaves a lasting impression.

5. Sairat (2016): Directed by Nagraj Manjule, Sairat is a romantic drama that became a sensation not only in Marathi cinema but also in Indian cinema as a whole. The film tells the story of a young couple from different castes who fall in love and face insurmountable challenges from society and family. Sairat is a groundbreaking film that challenges societal norms and portrays the harsh reality of caste discrimination and honour killings. Sairat holds the record of being the Top grossing Marathi movie of all time!

6. Court (2014): Directed by Chaitanya Tamhane, Court is a thought-provoking courtroom drama that delves into the complexities of the Indian legal system and the social issues surrounding it. The film follows the trial of an aging folk singer who is accused of inciting a sewer worker to commit suicide through his provocative songs. Court is a powerful critique of the flaws in the legal system and the socio-political landscape of India.

7. Highway (2015): Directed by Umesh Kulkarni, Highway is a dark comedy that explores the journey of a group of people who get stranded on a deserted highway due to a series of unexpected events. As they try to find a way out, their true selves and their deepest fears are revealed. Highway is a unique blend of humour, drama, and suspense, with a stellar ensemble cast delivering top-notch performances.

8. Shwaas (2004): Directed by Sandeep Sawant, Shwaas is a heartwarming drama that tells the story of a young boy suffering from a rare eye condition and his grandfather’s struggles to save his eyesight. The film sensitively portrays the emotions of hope, despair, and determination as the family grapples with the challenges of the medical system and the choices they have to make. Shwaas was India’s official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 2004 Academy Awards and won several awards for its touching story and powerful performances.

9. Killa (2015): Directed by Avinash Arun, Killa is a coming-of-age drama that revolves around the life of a young boy named Chinmay who moves to a new place with his mother after his father’s death. The film beautifully captures the innocence and challenges of childhood, as Chinmay navigates his new surroundings and makes new friends. Killa has received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of the emotions and experiences of growing up.

10. Natsamrat (2016): Directed by Mahesh Manjrekar, Natsamrat is a gripping drama based on the famous Marathi play by the same name. The film follows the story of a retired Shakespearean actor, played by Nana Patekar, who faces emotional turmoil and isolation in his twilight years. Natsamrat is a powerful portrayal of human emotions, relationships, and the harsh realities of life, and Nana Patekar’s performance in the film is considered one of the best in Marathi cinema. 

11. Ved (2022): Riteish Deshmukh stars and directs this mad love story in Marathi cinema, ‘Ved.’ A washed-up drunkard, Satya (Deshmukh), helps a cricket team win, and we learn of his love for Nisha (Jiya Shankar) whom he has been waiting for 12 years. The film’s story is simple. Deshmukh is impressive, and Genelia and Shankar perform well. The title song by Ajay-Atul is a chartbuster. The twist towards the end increases emotional appeal, making ‘Ved’ on the top Box Office Blockbuster in the Marathi CInema history.

12. Dagadi Chawl (2015): is a Marathi action-thriller directed by debutant Chandrakant Kanse. It stars Ankush Chaudhari as the lead protagonist, Suryakant Shinde, and Pooja Sawant as his love interest, Leena. The movie revolves around the Dagdi Chawl area of Mumbai, where Suryakant resides and is a part of a notorious gang. The story takes a dramatic turn when he falls in love with Leena and decides to leave behind his life of crime. The film is well-paced, and the action sequences are impressive, keeping the audience engaged throughout. The performances by the lead actors are commendable, and the film’s music by Vijay Gatlewar adds to the overall impact. ‘Dagadi Chawl’ is a thrilling watch and is worth checking out for action and crime genre lovers.

Notable mentions: Apart from the above 12 must-watch Marathi movies, there are several other notable mentions that have also made their mark in Marathi cinema. Some of these films include Fandry (2013), Elizabeth Ekadashi (2014), Nude (2018), Kaasav (2017), and Anumati (2013), among others. These films have been lauded for their unique storytelling, compelling performances, and thought-provoking themes.

In conclusion, Marathi cinema has a rich history of producing exceptional movies that have been appreciated by audiences and critics alike. The above list of 12 must-watch Marathi movies offers a diverse range of genres and themes, including social issues, family dramas, musicals, and more. These films have not only entertained but also made a significant impact by addressing important social issues, breaking stereotypes, and pushing the boundaries of storytelling. If you are a cinema lover, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the world of Marathi cinema through these must-watch movies and experience the magic of regional cinema at its finest. So, grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to be enthralled by the brilliance of Marathi cinema! So, what are you waiting for? Start watching these films and immerse yourself in the rich world of Marathi cinema. Happy watching!

Note: Please be sure to check the availability of these movies on legitimate streaming platforms or in theatres to ensure you are accessing them through legal means.