Lights, camera, extravagance! Bollywood is the glitzy world, where dreams are spun on a grand scale and fortunes are gambled on the silver screen. Today, we uncover the “10 Most Expensive Bollywood Films That Were High-Stakes Gambles,” a captivating lineup that mirrors the audacity and grandeur of Prabhas’ upcoming epic, “Adipurush.”
Bollywood has always been known for its larger-than-life productions, but these ten films take it to a whole new level. With budgets that defy logic and a thirst for cinematic brilliance, these projects dared to challenge financial prudence and pushed the boundaries of Bollywood’s imagination.
From historical sagas to mythical adventures, each film on this list carries its own weight of anticipation and risk. Some soared to unprecedented heights, captivating audiences worldwide and raking in the moolah, while others stumbled and left their creators wondering what went wrong.
Here are the 10 most expensive Bollywood films ever made:
1. Adipurush
Budget: INR 500-700 Crores
Prabhas starrer “Adipurush” has set new benchmarks with its massive budget, estimated to be between INR 500 to 700 Crores. This magnum opus is a retelling of the epic Ramayana, with Prabhas essaying the iconic role of Lord Rama. The film promises breathtaking visuals and high-octane action sequences that are sure to leave audiences spellbound. Will it break records at the box office? Only time will tell!
2. Brahmastra
Budget: INR 375-400 Crores
A star-studded affair, “Brahmastra” boasts a budget of INR 375 to 400 Crores. Directed by Ayan Mukerji, this fantasy adventure features Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Amitabh Bachchan in pivotal roles. Drawing inspiration from Hindu mythology, the story revolves around Shiva, a musician with extraordinary powers, as he battles dark forces to protect the powerful Brahmāstra. Despite its massive budget, the film managed to earn a commendable INR 430+ Crores at the box office.
3. Pathaan
Budget: INR 250 Crores
Shah Rukh Khan’s film “Pathaan” became one of the most successful Bollywood movies of all time. Made on a whopping budget of INR 250 Crores, the action-packed thriller showcased Khan in a never-seen-before avatar, alongside a stellar ensemble cast. With high-octane stunts and edge-of-your-seat suspense, “Pathaan” delivered an exhilarating cinematic experience. The movie earned more than INR 1000 Crores at the box-office.
4. ’83
Budget: INR 200-300 Crores
Reliving the glorious moment of India’s cricketing triumph in the 1983 World Cup, “’83” recreated the journey of the Indian cricket team. With a budget ranging from 200 to 300 Crores, the film captured the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of the players who brought home the prestigious trophy. Led by Ranveer Singh, this sports drama attempted to take audiences on a nostalgic ride down memory lane. Unfortunately, the movie couldn’t create much magic at the box office and turned into a disaster!
5. Thugs of Hindostan
Budget: INR 200-300 Crores
Despite its massive budget of 200 to 300 Crores, “Thugs of Hindostan” failed to live up to expectations. Starring Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan, this action-adventure film aimed to transport viewers to a world of pirates, treachery, and rebellion. However, the film received mixed reviews and couldn’t strike a chord with audiences, leading to disappointment at the box office.
6. Zero
Budget: INR 200 Crores
Shah Rukh Khan’s ambitious venture, “Zero,” boasted a budget of 200 Crores. This romantic drama featured Khan in the role of a vertically challenged man who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and love. While the film garnered attention for its innovative concept, it failed to make a significant impact and fell short of expectations. The movie became one of the worst performing of the year.
7. Tu Jhoothi Main Makkar
Budget: INR 200 Crores
“Tu Jhoothi Main Makkar” surprised many with its extravagant budget of 200 Crores. This comedy-drama featured a talented ensemble cast and tickled funny bones with its witty dialogues and rib-tickling moments. The movie received mixed reactions from the critics and audience and earned almost 220 Crores INR at the box office.
8. Padmaavat
Budget: INR180-190 Crores
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s magnum opus, “Padmaavat,” had a lavish budget of 180 to 190 Crores. Known for his opulent sets and grandeur, Bhansali spared no expense in bringing this historical drama to life. Starring Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor, the film explores the legendary tale of Queen Padmavati and the battle for her honor. The movie managed to earn INR 585 Crores at the box office.
9. Laal Singh Chaddha
Budget: INR 180 Crores
A highly anticipated film, “Laal Singh Chaddha,” boasts a budget of 180 Crores. Starring Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan, this Bollywood adaptation of the iconic film “Forrest Gump” aimed to capture hearts with its emotional storytelling and remarkable performances. But, unfortunately, the movie tanked miserably at the box office.
10. Sooryavanshi
Budget: INR 160 Crores
Rohit Shetty’s action-packed extravaganza, “Sooryavanshi,” was created on a massive budget of 160 Crores. Featuring Akshay Kumar as the titular character, the film brought together the elements of high-octane action, thrilling sequences, and Shetty’s signature brand of entertainment. The movie managed to earn almost INR 233 Crores at the box office.
These extravagant budgets signify the industry’s unwavering dedication to creating larger-than-life cinematic experiences that transport audiences into a world of fantasy, drama, and entertainment. What are your expectations from Adipurush? Will it be a massive hit or a dud? Tell us in the comments below.
