Top 10 True Crime Based Bollywood Movies Till 2023

Movies based on real-life crimes offer captivating and thought-provoking narratives, showcasing that Bollywood extends beyond dance and drama. Several notable crime films have emerged from the industry, such as Satya, Shool, Gangs of Wasseypur, Maqbool, Haider, and more. While these movies draw inspiration from real-life events, the filmmakers often alter locations and names to avoid causing offense. Here are some Bollywood movies based on real-life crimes that I have personally watched and appreciated:

1. Bandit Queen (1994):

Bandit Queen (1994) tells the story of Phoolan Devi, a real-life figure. The film portrays her life, starting from her forced child marriage to a man named Puttilal, to the sexual and exploitative abuses she endures. Phoolan escapes her husband and faces further abuse from villagers. Directed by Shekhar Kapur, Bandit Queen depicts how societal circumstances drive Phoolan to become a bandit.

2. Hey Ram (2000):

Hey Ram (2000) follows Saketh Ram, a man from a wealthy family whose wife is raped and killed during the India-Pakistan partition. Consumed by anger, Saketh believes M.K. Gandhi is responsible for the country's problems and sets out to assassinate him. However, as the story unfolds, Saketh learns about Gandhi's teachings of love and peace, leading to a change of heart. Kamal Haasan directs this film set against the backdrop of the partition, exploring the perspective of Nathuram Godse, the assassin of M.K. Gandhi.

3. Black Friday (2004/07):

Black Friday (2004/07) marks Anurag Kashyap's directorial debut. Although his first film, Paanch, never received a theatrical release, Black Friday fearlessly portrays the 1993 Bombay Bombings. The movie begins with the riots in Bombay, where many Muslim homes and offices are burned. Tiger Memon (played by Pavan Malhotra) loses his office during the riots, leading him and a group of people to plan the bomb blasts. The narrative unfolds, showcasing the involvement of Dawood Ibrahim in the bombings.

4. Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007):

Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007) revolves around Maya (played by Vivek Oberoi) and Bhua (played by Tusshar Kapoor), two gangsters. Maya, the right-hand man of a don in Dubai (loosely referencing Dawood Ibrahim), is urged by his mother (played by Amrita Singh) to sever ties with the Dubai don and start his own operations. When the Dubai don withdraws his support, the police launch an operation to encounter Maya and his associates.

5. Firaaq (2008/09):

Firaaq (2008/09), directed by Nandita Das, sheds light on the 2002 Gujarat riots. The film chronicles the lives of ordinary people whose lives are irrevocably changed during the riots. It portrays the silence of some individuals and the victimization of innocent people at the hands of perpetrators.

6. Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010):

Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010) depicts the rise of Dawood Ibrahim as the don of Bombay (now Mumbai). The movie portrays the growth of crime and smuggling in Mumbai, with Ajay Devgn playing Sultan Mirza (inspired by Haji Mastan Mirza), a criminal involved in smuggling. Emraan Hashmi portrays Shoaib Khan (inspired by Dawood Ibrahim), who wishes to become rich as well as powerful like Sultan Mirza. The story unfolds, illustrating how Shoaib makes his way into Mirza.

7. No One Killed Jessica (2011):

No One Killed Jessica (2011) tells the story of Jessica, a young woman who is murdered by the son of a wealthy politician. The film follows the journey of a journalist who becomes invested in the case and teams up with Jessica's sister to seek justice. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the movie sheds light on the struggles faced by the victims in their fight for justice.

8. Not a Love Story (2011):

Not a Love Story (2011) is inspired by the infamous 2008 Neeraj Grover murder case. Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, the film revolves around Robin, who murders Ashish due to his girlfriend's involvement with him. The movie delves into the dark and gripping aspects of the real-life incident.

9. Gangs of Wasseypur (2012):

Gangs of Wasseypur is a two-part series that explores the world of the coal mafia in Bihar-Jharkhand. Directed by Anurag Kashyap, the films offer a compelling narrative that delves into the power struggles, rivalries, and violence surrounding the coal mines in the region.

10. Paan Singh Tomar (2012):

Paan Singh Tomar (2012) is a biographical film based on the life of athlete Paan Singh Tomar. The movie chronicles his journey from being a sepoy in the Indian Army to becoming a rebel (baaghi) due to family disputes. Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, the film highlights the remarkable story of an athlete's transformation under challenging circumstances.

These Bollywood movies based on real-life crimes provide audiences with engrossing narratives that not only entertain but also shed light on important social issues. While taking inspiration from true events, these films often incorporate fictional elements to create a compelling cinematic experience.