Here’s a breakdown of India’s most expensive films as of recent years, with budgets and production scales that have set new records in Bollywood and Indian cinema at large:
India’s film industry has been scaling up, producing films with remarkable budgets to create high-quality visuals, complex storylines, and an immersive experience for global audiences. Here are the highlights:
- Project K (2024) – Estimated Budget: ₹600 Crore
Starring Prabhas and Deepika Padukone, “Project K” is India’s most expensive film to date, blending science fiction with action and cutting-edge visuals. It’s expected to surpass records set by “RRR” and “KGF” in terms of both cost and revenue. - 2.0 (2018) – Budget: ₹575 Crore
Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar’s sci-fi spectacle “2.0” featured groundbreaking VFX and storytelling, making it one of the costliest films in India’s history. - RRR (2022) – Budget: ₹550 Crore
Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, “RRR” created global ripples with its impressive action sequences and VFX. This blockbuster solidified the international appeal of Indian films. - Adipurush (2023) – Budget: ₹500 Crore
A mythological retelling of the Ramayana, “Adipurush” was notable for its heavy use of VFX, though it faced mixed reviews and controversies regarding its portrayal and CGI quality. - Ponniyin Selvan Part 1 & 2 (2022-2023) – Combined Budget: ₹500 Crore
Mani Ratnam’s magnum opus based on Tamil literature showcased the rich history of the Chola dynasty, with high-budget sets, elaborate costumes, and a star-studded cast. - Saaho (2019) – Budget: ₹350 Crore
Featuring Prabhas, “Saaho” went global with its production, incorporating locations and technologies from across continents. - Baahubali Series (2015 & 2017) – Combined Budget: ₹430 Crore
This iconic series by S.S. Rajamouli redefined Indian cinema, with large-scale battle sequences and extensive CGI, becoming a global sensation. - Thugs of Hindostan (2018) – Budget: ₹310 Crore
Despite mixed reviews, this Bollywood period drama starring Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan invested heavily in set design and action choreography. - Radhe Shyam (2022) – Budget: ₹300 Crore
Starring Prabhas, “Radhe Shyam” offered a visually stunning experience, though it struggled to meet box office expectations. - Pathaan (2023) – Budget: ₹250 Crore
Shah Rukh Khan’s return to action genre, “Pathaan,” was a major success, combining thrilling action with impressive production values, placing it among the top budget films.
Key Insights on Production and Costs
Most Expensive Film Industry: The South Indian film industry, particularly Telugu and Tamil cinema, has led India in producing high-budget films, often surpassing traditional Bollywood productions.
India’s Top Expensive Movie Ranking: “Project K” has claimed the title of the most expensive film ever produced in India, setting a new benchmark for the industry. Each movie on this list showcases a high investment in CGI, star power, and locations to cater to a global audience.
With Indian cinema expanding its global reach, these films demonstrate the country’s commitment to competing with international blockbusters, making India a hub for high-budget, high-quality cinematic experiences. For more insights and updates, visit SurajGoswami.com.