Sylvie 
Mumbai, the heart of Bollywood, has gifted cinema lovers with numerous masterpieces over the years. While many films have garnered massive acclaim and popularity, some exceptional Hindi movies from the 2000s remain underrated and deserve your attention. Here is a curated list of 10 most underrated Hindi movies from the 2000s that you should definitely watch.
1. Black (2005)
Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Black is an inspiring tale based on the life of a deaf-blind girl and her teacher. The remarkable performances and compelling narrative make it a must-watch.
2. Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003)
This political drama by Sudhir Mishra depicts the turbulent 1970s in India with a focus on idealism, love, and sacrifice. The poignant screenplay and strong performances have made it a cult classic.
3. Iqbal (2005)
Directed by Nagesh Kukunoor, Iqbal is about a deaf and mute boy who dreams of playing cricket for India. It’s an inspiring movie about perseverance and hope.
4. Sarkar (2005)
Ram Gopal Varma’s Sarkar is often compared to The Godfather for its portrayal of the underworld and politics, with powerhouse performances from Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan.
5. Maqbool (2003)
A gritty adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth set in Mumbai’s criminal underworld, this Vishal Bhardwaj film merges classic tragedy with Indian sensibilities, delivering powerful performances.
6. Page 3 (2005)
Directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, Page 3 exposes the dark side of celebrity culture and media sensationalism. It offers a critical perspective seldom seen in mainstream Bollywood.
7. Chandni Bar (2001)
This social drama by Madhur Bhandarkar delves into the struggles of a bar dancer and her family in Mumbai, presenting a powerful story on the underprivileged sections of society.
8. Bheed (2023)
A recent though overlooked film, Bheed narrates the human stories amid India’s 2020 lockdown, focusing on social dynamics and inequalities.
9. Talvar (2015)
This investigative thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar examines a real-life double murder case with sharp storytelling and nuanced performances, showcasing the complexity of truth and justice.
10. Aligarh (2015)
Starring Manoj Bajpayee, Aligarh is a sensitive portrayal of the real-life story of a professor facing discrimination. It’s a poignant film about dignity and human rights.
Why watch these movies?
- They offer stories that are different from mainstream Bollywood fare.
- Excellent performances that went unnoticed by many.
- Powerful social and political themes you’ll find thought-provoking.
- Beautifully crafted cinema that deserves wider recognition.
In conclusion, these films showcase the diversity and depth of Hindi cinema in the 2000s, and exploring them will give you a richer understanding of the cultural and cinematic landscape of that era.
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