Top 5 Indian Films on Netflix That Explore Hinduism: A Must-Watch Guide for Movie Lovers

The rich cultural, spiritual, and philosophical traditions of Hinduism have long influenced Indian cinema. From stories rooted in mythology to modern-day explorations of faith, these films provide an insightful look into Hindu beliefs, practices, and history. As a fan of movies about Hinduism, I’ve curated a list of the top five Indian films on Netflix that explore this ancient religion. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a fan of Indian culture, these films offer a unique cinematic experience.

1. PK (2014)

PK, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, is a satirical take on religion, belief systems, and blind faith. The story revolves around an alien named PK (played by Aamir Khan) who lands on Earth and finds himself confused by the various religious customs and practices. In his quest to find his lost communication device, PK asks fundamental questions about the nature of God, challenging societal norms. Through humor and thought-provoking dialogue, the film explores how people interact with religion and the commercialization of faith.

PK is a lighthearted yet meaningful exploration of religious practices in India, questioning dogma and rituals through an outsider’s perspective.

2. OMG: Oh My God! (2012)

OMG: Oh My God! is another thought-provoking film that tackles religious beliefs and the commercialization of faith. The story follows Kanji Lalji Mehta (Paresh Rawal), an atheist shopkeeper whose shop is destroyed by an earthquake. When his insurance company refuses to compensate him, citing an “act of God,” Kanji sues God in court. The film brings into question the roles of religious leaders and organized religion while also delving into spiritual interpretations of Hindu deities.

The film is a blend of comedy and drama that sparks conversations about blind faith, rituals, and the essence of spirituality.

3. Tumbbad (2018)

Tumbbad is a dark and eerie period horror film rooted in Hindu mythology. Set in the 1910s, the film tells the story of a family that discovers the secret of a mythical creature named Hastar, the forgotten son of the Goddess of Prosperity. The film masterfully explores themes of greed, wealth, and the consequences of defying divine order. Tumbbad delves into the relationship between man and the gods, with visuals that bring ancient folklore to life.

For fans of horror and mythology, Tumbbad offers a chilling and visually stunning experience, blending horror with Hindu mythological elements.

4. Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) & Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017)

The Baahubali series, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, is a grand epic rooted in themes of ancient Indian kingdoms, power struggles, and divine intervention. Although not directly about Hinduism, the films are steeped in mythological symbolism, drawing parallels to stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. The story follows the journey of Mahendra Baahubali and his rise to power as he battles to reclaim his rightful place in the kingdom of Mahishmati. With larger-than-life visuals, powerful deities, and references to dharma and karma, Baahubali feels like a modern-day myth.

Baahubali is perfect for fans of epic storytelling, heroism, and visuals that echo India’s rich mythological past.

5. Swades (2004)

Swades, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, tells the story of an Indian scientist, Mohan Bhargava (Shah Rukh Khan), who returns to India from NASA to find his childhood nanny. As he reconnects with his roots, Mohan experiences the complex intersections of tradition, faith, and modernization in rural India. While not directly centered on Hinduism, the film delves into the influence of religion and community in shaping India’s cultural landscape. Themes of karma, duty (dharma), and the importance of contributing to society are central to the story.

Why Watch: For those interested in how Hindu values like karma and community are woven into daily life, Swades is an inspiring and emotional journey.

Indian cinema, particularly Bollywood, has long explored themes from Hinduism, including mythology, karma, dharma, and the relationship between gods and humans. These films serve as both entertainment and philosophical exploration, offering viewers a window into India’s rich spiritual traditions. Whether you’re looking for action-packed epics, thought-provoking satire, or deep philosophical narratives, these top five films on Netflix offer an insightful and engaging look at Hindu culture.

From Aamir Khan’s comedic yet poignant critique of religion in PK to the eerie mythological horrors of Tumbbad, these films are sure to captivate anyone interested in the intersection of cinema and spirituality.