Top 5 Best Punjabi Movies of All Time
Top 5 Best Punjabi Movies of All Time
Blog Article
Top 5 Best Punjabi Movies of All Time
Punjabi cinema has produced some truly remarkable films over the years—movies that not only entertain but also capture the essence of Punjabi culture, emotions, and storytelling. While the industry has had its ups and downs, these five films stand out as masterpieces, setting benchmarks in acting, direction, and narrative depth.
DesiCinemamovies
1. Chann Pardesi (1980)
Director: Charnjit Singh
Starring: Raj Babbar, Amita Paul, Om Puri
A timeless classic, Chann Pardesi is one of the most influential Punjabi films ever made. Set against the backdrop of rural Punjab, it tells the tragic love story of a Punjabi immigrant (Raj Babbar) who returns from abroad only to find his beloved married to another man. The film’s raw emotion, powerful performances (especially by Om Puri), and haunting soundtrack make it unforgettable.
Why It’s Great:
One of the first Punjabi films to gain national recognition.
Tackles themes of migration, love, and betrayal with depth.
Features early performances by Bollywood legends Raj Babbar and Om Puri.
2. Shaheed-E-Mohabbat (1998)
Director: Manoj Punj
Starring: Gurdas Maan, Divya Dutta, Juhi Chawla
Based on the real-life story of Boota Singh, a soldier who fell in love with a refugee woman during Partition, Shaheed-E-Mohabbat is a heart-wrenching tale of love and sacrifice. Gurdas Maan delivers a career-best performance, and the film’s tragic ending leaves a lasting impact.
Why It’s Great:
One of the most emotionally powerful Punjabi films.
Highlights the human cost of Partition.
Gurdas Maan’s soulful music elevates the storytelling.
3. Anhe Ghore Da Daan (2011)
Director: Gurvinder Singh
Starring: Mal Singh, Samuel John, Serbjeet Kaur
A critically acclaimed art film, Anhe Ghore Da Daan (Alms for the Blind Horse) is a poetic yet hard-hitting portrayal of Punjab’s marginalized communities. With minimal dialogue and stunning cinematography, the film captures the struggles of landless laborers in a changing society.
Why It’s Great:
Won multiple international awards, including at Venice Film Festival.
A rare Punjabi film that blends realism with artistic brilliance.
A thought-provoking commentary on class struggle.
4. Punjab 1984 (2014)
Director: Anurag Singh
Starring: Diljit Dosanjh, Kirron Kher, Pawan Malhotra
Set during the turbulent years of Punjab’s militancy, Punjab 1984 follows a mother’s (Kirron Kher) relentless search for her missing son (Diljit Dosanjh). The film balances political tension with deep emotional drama, making it one of the most impactful Punjabi films of the decade.
Why It’s Great:
Boldly addresses a dark chapter in Punjab’s history.
Kirron Kher’s performance is award-worthy.
Music by Jatinder Shah perfectly complements the mood.
5. Qissa (2013)
Director: Anup Singh
Starring: Irrfan Khan, Tisca Chopra, Tillotama Shome
Though not a traditional Punjabi commercial film, Qissa is a hauntingly beautiful Indo-German production set in post-Partition Punjab. It tells the story of a Sikh man (Irrfan Khan) who raises his fourth daughter as a son, leading to tragic consequences. The film’s surreal storytelling and Irrfan’s mesmerizing performance make it a must-watch.
Why It’s Great:
A unique blend of folklore, drama, and magical realism.
Irrfan Khan delivers one of his finest performances.
Explores gender identity and trauma in a post-Partition world.
Honorable Mentions:
Laavaan Phere (2015) – A modern take on marriage and relationships.
Sardaar Ji (2015) – A fun yet well-crafted comedy-horror.
Angrej (2015) – A nostalgic romance set in pre-Partition Punjab.
DesiCinemaapp
Final Verdict
These five films represent the best of Punjabi cinema—each offering something unique, whether it’s raw emotion, historical depth, or artistic brilliance. While the industry today leans towards commercial comedies, these classics remind us of the power of meaningful storytelling.
Report this page