There's something magical about a good comedy movie. It lifts your mood, makes your heart lighter, and often leaves you quoting your favorite lines for days. Indian cinema, known for its rich storytelling, larger-than-life characters, and colorful worlds, has gifted us some of the most unforgettable comedy gems over the decades. These movies transcend generations, cultures, and languages, simply by making us laugh. If you're craving a hearty laugh, here’s a handpicked, lovingly curated list of the best Indian comedy movies you simply must watch. Get ready to binge!
1. Hera Pheri (2000)
Let's kick things off with a classic. "Hera Pheri" is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. Starring Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and the legendary Paresh Rawal, this hilarious misadventure of three struggling men trying to make a quick fortune spirals into absolute chaos. Every scene is packed with iconic dialogues, comic misunderstandings, and impeccable timing. It's the kind of movie you can rewatch countless times and still burst out laughing like it's the first. Paresh Rawal’s portrayal of Babu Bhaiya is a masterclass in comedic acting. If you've somehow missed this gem, drop everything and watch it now.
2. Andaz Apna Apna (1994)
Before memes ruled our conversations, "Andaz Apna Apna" had already created a treasure trove of quotable, meme-worthy moments. Salman Khan and Aamir Khan deliver performances that are delightfully absurd and lovable. Paresh Rawal’s double role as Teja and Ram Gopal Bajaj adds another delicious layer of confusion and hilarity. The story follows two bumbling fools trying to woo a wealthy heiress but ending up neck-deep in a kidnapping plot. It's silly, goofy, and an absolute blast—perfect for a laid-back movie night.
"Andaz Apna Apna" was initially released in 1994 with a cast including Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Raveena Tandon, and Karisma Kapoor. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi and presented by Vinay Pictures, the film didn't do well at the box office initially but later gained massive cult status. Recently, on April 25, 2025, it was re-released in theatres across India, sparking nostalgia among fans. During its opening weekend re-release, it collected ₹1.2 crore domestically. Audiences turned the screenings into celebrations, mouthing dialogues and singing songs along with the movie. The response was so overwhelming that theaters even increased the number of shows. It's proof that "Andaz Apna Apna" remains as relevant, hilarious, and beloved today as ever.
3. Chupke Chupke (1975)
Directed by the legendary Hrishikesh Mukherjee, "Chupke Chupke" is the embodiment of clean, intelligent humor. Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore, and Jaya Bachchan shine in this simple yet brilliant story of a newlywed man who plays an elaborate prank on his in-laws. It’s a film where wit, wordplay, and misunderstandings drive the laughs rather than slapstick. If you love timeless classics that make you smile warmly, "Chupke Chupke" should be high on your list.
4. Gol Maal (1979)
Another masterpiece from Hrishikesh Mukherjee, "Gol Maal" tells the hilarious tale of a simple white lie about having a mustache that snowballs into a web of ridiculous fabrications. Starring Amol Palekar and Utpal Dutt, the film’s brilliance lies in its clever script and relatable characters. Every scene is layered with humor that's sharp but never mean. It's a must-watch if you enjoy light-hearted yet intelligent comedy that still feels fresh decades later.
5. Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003)
Rajkumar Hirani gave us a new flavor of comedy with "Munna Bhai M.B.B.S." It’s funny, heartwarming, and loaded with messages about kindness and humanity. Sanjay Dutt's lovable gangster Munna, trying to fulfill his parents' dream of him becoming a doctor, brings you equal parts laughs and tears. With Arshad Warsi's Circuit providing side-splitting support, this film is a true emotional rollercoaster. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you smiling long after the credits roll.
6. Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)
While "Bhool Bhulaiyaa" often gets categorized as a psychological thriller, the comedy quotient is just as potent. Akshay Kumar, as the unconventional and eccentric psychiatrist Dr. Aditya Shrivastav, brings impeccable comic timing and energy to the film. Vidya Balan’s stellar performance adds depth, but it’s Akshay's cheeky antics and witty dialogues that keep the humor alive. If you like a bit of spook mixed with your laughs, this is a must-watch.
7. Delhi Belly (2011)
"Delhi Belly" is the rebellious bad boy of Indian comedies. Bold, brash, and unapologetically irreverent, it follows three struggling roommates who unknowingly get caught up in a smuggling racket. Imran Khan, Vir Das, and Kunaal Roy Kapur bring a raw, chaotic energy that’s hard to resist. The humor is quick, often raunchy, and definitely not for your traditional family movie night—but if you're up for something edgy, you’ll love every minute.
8. 3 Idiots (2009)
Inspirational, heart-touching, and laugh-out-loud funny—"3 Idiots" is a perfect all-rounder. Rajkumar Hirani strikes gold again with a story about friendship, education, and the courage to chase your dreams. Beyond its strong message, the film is packed with hilarious moments, from the legendary "Chamatkar" speech to "All Is Well." Aamir Khan, R. Madhavan, and Sharman Joshi share a chemistry so natural that it’s impossible not to get invested in their antics.
9. Padosan (1968)
They don't make them like "Padosan" anymore. A classic in every sense, this hilarious musical-comedy is a riot. Sunil Dutt, Kishore Kumar, Mehmood, and Saira Banu spin a simple boy-meets-girl story into an uproarious farce filled with impersonations, singing battles, and lovable foolishness. The song "Ek Chatur Naar" remains one of the most iconic musical face-offs in Hindi cinema.
10. Fukrey (2013)
"Fukrey" captures the spirit of Delhi's lazy, street-smart youth like no other film. The story of four aimless friends with big dreams and questionable methods feels surprisingly real yet hilarious. Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma, Ali Fazal, and Manjot Singh deliver performances filled with authentic, youthful energy. Varun Sharma's portrayal of the dreamer "Choocha" became an instant fan favorite, leaving audiences in splits.
11. Welcome (2007)
Adding a bonus recommendation because it would be criminal to leave this one out—"Welcome" is pure chaos wrapped in luxury. Akshay Kumar, Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, Katrina Kaif, and Paresh Rawal create a madcap world of gangsters, arranged marriages, and mistaken identities. It's larger than life, filled with slapstick humor, and endlessly quotable. A total entertainer!
12. Dhol (2007)
"Dhol" directed by Priyadarshan brings together a hilarious story of four slackers who dream of marrying a rich girl to enjoy a luxurious life. With an ensemble cast featuring Tusshar Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, Kunal Khemu, and Rajpal Yadav, this film delivers laugh after laugh thanks to perfect comic timing and an engaging storyline full of misunderstandings.
13. Dhamaal (2007)
If you're looking for a madcap adventure, "Dhamaal" is it! Starring Sanjay Dutt, Arshad Warsi, Javed Jaffrey, and Riteish Deshmukh, the movie follows four good-for-nothings on a treasure hunt, leading to hysterical situations. Packed with slapstick humor and unforgettable dialogues, "Dhamaal" is perfect when you just want to switch off and laugh.
14. Chup Chup Ke (2006)
Shahid Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor star in this underrated comedy where a young man fakes his death to escape financial troubles, only to find himself in a whirlwind of confusion. Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, and Suniel Shetty’s comedic genius elevates "Chup Chup Ke" into a heartfelt and laugh-filled journey.
15. Bhagam Bhag (2006)
A chaotic, laugh-out-loud caper directed by Priyadarshan, "Bhagam Bhag" stars Akshay Kumar, Govinda, and Paresh Rawal as a theater troupe entangled in a murder mystery abroad. The film's pace never drops, and its comic sequences are sheer madness—perfect for lovers of high-energy humor.
16. Khatta Meetha (2010)
Akshay Kumar plays a struggling contractor battling corrupt politicians and bureaucrats in "Khatta Meetha." Directed by Priyadarshan, the film offers a unique blend of satire and slapstick comedy, showing the absurdity of the system through laughable yet relatable incidents.
Final Thoughts
Indian cinema offers a comedy masterpiece for every kind of mood and every kind of laughter—whether you’re into classic charm, mindless mayhem, smart humor, or a bit of everything. These movies not only promise uncontrollable laughter but also offer a peek into the changing flavors of Indian storytelling over the decades. They remind us that at the end of the day, no matter where we come from, everyone loves a good laugh.
So grab your popcorn, call your best friends, or just snuggle up solo—it's time for a no-holds-barred, belly-aching, comedy movie marathon!
Did we miss your all-time favorite comedy movie? Drop it in the comments—let's keep this laughter train rolling!