Chhaava is IMDb’s No.1 Indian Movie of 2025 So Far — Have You Seen the Other 9?

As we cross the halfway mark of 2025, IMDb has unveiled its list of the Most Popular Indian Movies of the Year (So Far) — a reflection of what moviegoers have been most interested in watching and searching for. Topping the list is the historical drama Chhaava, followed closely by a mix of genres ranging from action-packed thrillers to emotional dramas and patriotic sagas.

Chhaava Leads the Chart

Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava has emerged as IMDb’s most popular Indian movie of 2025 so far. The film, starring Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna, brings to life the journey of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Shivaji Maharaj, who led fierce battles against the Mughals after his father’s demise.

Inspired by Shivaji Sawant’s novel ‘Chhaava’, the film beautifully captures the valor, politics, and personal sacrifices of the Maratha Empire in the 17th century. With a solid IMDb rating of 7.3, the film has garnered massive support from global audiences, both in theaters and on its current streaming platform, Netflix.

"This recognition is truly special because it comes directly from the fans," said director Laxman Utekar.

 IMDb’s Top 10 Most Popular Indian Films of 2025 (So Far)

These rankings are based on page views and user activity from over 250 million monthly IMDb visitors between January 1 and July 1, 2025. To be eligible, films had to be released in India during this timeframe, hold an average user rating of 6.0 or higher, and have garnered at least 10,000 votes.

Here’s the full list:

1. Chhaava

2. Dragon

3. Deva

4. Raid 2

5. Retro

6. The Diplomat

7. L2: Empuraan

8. Sitaare Zameen Par

9. Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh

10. VidaaMuyarchi

 A Look at the Diverse Genres

• Dragon and Retro have resonated with younger audiences for their emotional depth and vibrant storytelling.

• Deva starring Shahid Kapoor offered adrenaline-pumping action and drew in a massive crowd.

• Raid 2, the much-awaited sequel, brought back patriotic thrill with powerful performances.

• The Diplomat and L2: Empuraan showcased gripping political drama and southern power-packed storytelling, respectively.

• Sitaare Zameen Par, an emotional rollercoaster led by Aamir Khan, continues its theatrical run with critical acclaim.

• Kesari Chapter 2 and VidaaMuyarchi also contributed significantly to regional cinema’s rise in national popularity.

 What the Makers Say

Producer Dinesh Vijan, celebrating Chhaava's IMDb win, said:

“We are truly grateful for this acknowledgment. It is a testimony to the power of content-driven cinema and our team’s hard work.”

 Where to Watch

• Chhaava – Now streaming on Netflix

• The remaining films are available across platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, ZEE5, and JioCinema, or are still running in theatres.

IMDb’s mid-year list proves that Indian audiences are leaning toward quality storytelling and strong performances, regardless of genre or language. Chhaava’s dominance also highlights a growing interest in historical epics that resonate emotionally and culturally.

With many anticipated releases lined up for the second half of 2025, including Coolie, War 2, and Saiyaara, the race for the top spot is far from over.

Detailed information about the Most Popular Indian Movies of 2025 (So Far) 

1. Chhaava

• Genre: Historical Drama / Action

• Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, Akshaye Khanna

• Director: Laxman Utekar

• Platform: Netflix

• IMDb Rating: 7.3

A gripping historical epic, Chhaava brings to life the tale of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the brave son of Shivaji Maharaj. Set in the 17th century, it explores his battles against Aurangzeb’s Mughal empire. With emotionally charged storytelling, impressive performances, and sweeping visuals, the film has struck a chord with history buffs and mainstream audiences alike.

2. Dragon

• Genre: Coming-of-Age Drama / Fantasy

• Cast: Newcomers and child artists (details awaited)

• Platform: Netflix

• IMDB rating: 7.9 

A unique blend of fantasy and emotional storytelling, Dragon follows a young boy’s journey through personal loss and magical encounters. The film explores themes of self-discovery and resilience, earning praise for its visuals, heartwarming narrative, and child-centric focus — a rare genre mix in Indian cinema.

3. Deva

• Genre: Action Thriller

• Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, Pavail Gulati

• Director: Rosshan Andrrews

• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

• IMDB rating: 6.7

Deva is Shahid Kapoor’s return to high-octane action. Playing a rebellious intelligence officer caught in a web of conspiracies and betrayal, Kapoor delivers an intense performance. Crisp editing, stylish visuals, and fast-paced sequences have helped Deva trend among action lovers.

4. Raid 2

• Genre: Crime Thriller / Patriotic Drama

• Cast: Ajay Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh

• Director: Raj Kumar Gupta

• Platform: Disney+ Hotstar

• IMDB rating: 6.7

The sequel to 2018’s Raid, this installment ups the ante with a larger conspiracy, high-stakes tax busts, and courtroom face-offs. Devgn reprises his role as the upright IRS officer. The mix of patriotism, suspense, and real-life inspiration has earned the film both popularity and critical acclaim.

5. Retro

• Genre: Romantic Drama / Musical

• Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Mrunal Thakur

• Platform: Netflix

• IMDB rating: 6.7

Set in the late 1980s, Retro is a nostalgic musical ride through the golden era of cassettes, radios, and handwritten love letters. With soulful music and charming performances, this slow-burn love story has attracted old-school romance fans and Gen Z alike.

6. The Diplomat

• Genre: Political Drama / Spy Thriller

• Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jim Sarbh

• Platform: JioCinema

• IMDB rating: 7.0

A tightly-wound political thriller, The Diplomat revolves around India’s foreign intelligence services and the personal risks involved in secret diplomacy. Kareena Kapoor’s mature performance and the sharp dialogues make it one of the most gripping political films of the year.

7. L2: Empuraan

• Genre: Action / Crime / Malayalam

• Cast: Mohanlal, Prithviraj Sukumaran

• Director: Prithviraj Sukumaran

• Platform: Disney+ Hotstar

• IMDB rating: 6.2 

The sequel to Lucifer (2019), Empuraan, continues the saga of Khureshi Ab'Ram — a mysterious and powerful figure navigating politics and crime. Mohanlal’s screen presence, layered storytelling, and stunning cinematography have drawn in both Malayali fans and pan-Indian viewers.

8. Sitaare Zameen Par

• Genre: Family Drama / Social

• Cast: Aamir Khan, Genelia Deshmukh

• Director: Aamir Khan

• Platform: Still in theatres

• IMDB rating: 7.2

A spiritual successor to Taare Zameen Par, this heartwarming drama explores children’s mental health, learning differences, and parental pressure in modern times. Aamir Khan’s emotional depth and the film’s powerful message have made it a trending topic across social platforms.

9. Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh

• Genre: Historical / Patriotic

• Cast: Sidharth Malhotra, Richa Chadha

• Platform: ZEE5

• IMDB rating: 8.0

A spiritual sequel to Kesari, this film recounts the tragic 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre, diving deep into its untold backstories and lesser-known freedom fighters. The film strikes an emotional chord with patriotic audiences, shedding light on one of India’s darkest historical moments.

10. VidaaMuyarchi

• Genre: Action / Tamil

• Cast: Ajith Kumar, Trisha Krishnan, Regina Cassandra

• Director: Magizh Thirumeni

• Platform: Amazon Prime Video

• IMDB rating: 6.2

VidaaMuyarchi (meaning perseverance) is an emotionally charged action thriller with Ajith Kumar in a never-before-seen avatar. The film showcases themes of redemption, inner strength, and fighting against systemic corruption. The Tamil fanbase and gripping storytelling have made it a solid hit.

FAQs

Q1. What is the most popular Indian movie of 2025 so far?
A: According to IMDb, Chhaava is the most popular Indian movie of 2025 as of July.

Q2. Where can I watch Chhaava?
A: Chhaava is available for streaming on Netflix.

Q3. How is IMDb’s ranking calculated?
A: IMDb determines popularity based on global page views and user interactions, not box office numbers or critic reviews.

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