From Emotions to Sacrifices: 10 Bollywood Movies That Celebrate Fatherhood

Father’s Day is more than just gifts and cards—it’s about cherishing the men who’ve shaped our lives with their strength, love, quirks, and sacrifices. What better way to celebrate this special bond than by watching films that reflect the many colors of fatherhood—whether it’s emotional, hilarious, inspiring, or intense? Bollywood has given us some heartwarming and powerful stories that honor this beautiful relationship.

Here’s a list of 10 Bollywood films—ranging from emotional dramas to inspiring biopics—that showcase fatherhood in all its glory. Whether you’re watching with your dad, reminiscing on memories, or just want to feel closer to your roots, there’s something in here for everyone.

1. Drishyam (2015)

Age Rating: U/A (Parental guidance for children under 12)

What happens when a father must go to extreme lengths to protect his family? Drishyam is a gripping thriller that underlines a father’s fierce instinct to safeguard his children—no matter the cost. It’s smart, suspenseful, and surprisingly emotional.

2. Dangal (2016)

Age Rating: U/A (Parental guidance for children under 12)

Based on a true story, this inspiring sports drama follows Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters to fulfill the dream he couldn’t achieve himself. Dangal beautifully explores discipline, ambition, and the strength of belief a father can instill in his children.

3. Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)

Age Rating: U (Suitable for all ages)

In a world full of doubters, Gunjan’s biggest supporter was her father. This biographical film highlights a quiet, tender relationship where encouragement and belief from her dad give Gunjan the wings to soar into a male-dominated world as a fighter pilot.

4. Animal (2023)

Age Rating: A (Adults only – contains violence and intense themes)

Animal is not your traditional Father’s Day film. It’s raw, brutal, and emotional—a story of a son who pushes all boundaries for his emotionally distant father’s approval. If you’re up for something intense and emotionally heavy, this film is a gripping watch.

5. Angrezi Medium (2020)

Age Rating: U (Suitable for all ages)

A single father’s determination to fulfill his daughter’s dream of studying abroad takes him across countries and into a series of humorous and emotional adventures. This film is a heartfelt reminder of the lengths a dad will go to see his child happy.

6. Piku (2015)

Age Rating: U (Suitable for all ages)

This gentle, offbeat drama dives into the daily chaos between a daughter and her aging, hypochondriac father. With moments of laughter, irritation, and deep affection, Piku reminds us that love often lies in life’s smallest routines.

7. Bhoothnath (2008)

Age Rating: U (Suitable for all ages)

A unique blend of fantasy and emotion, this story about a young boy and a ghost actually highlights fatherhood in its own way. As the ghost (played by Amitabh Bachchan) reflects on the regrets of his estranged relationship with his son, the film quietly nudges at the importance of presence and affection in a father’s life.

8. Hi Nanna (2023)

Age Rating: U (Suitable for all ages)

This Telugu-language film (with Hindi dubbed versions available) tells the story of Viraj, a single father raising his daughter Mahi with immense love and care. As secrets about the past begin to unfold, the film navigates themes of loss, healing, and emotional strength. What makes Hi Nanna so special is its gentle storytelling and the genuine chemistry between the father and daughter, making it a tearjerker that celebrates fatherhood at its most vulnerable and pure.

9. Drishyam 2 (2022)

Age Rating: U/A

The sequel to Drishyam, this film once again showcases a father who’ll move mountains to protect his family. Ajay Devgn’s portrayal of a calm but fierce father continues to underline the quiet intensity of parental responsibility and sacrifice.

10. Sanju (2018)

Age Rating: U/A (Parental guidance advised)

At its core, Sanju is a story of a troubled son and the unwavering love of a father. As Sanjay Dutt’s life spirals through addiction, fame, controversy, and redemption, his father, Sunil Dutt (played by Paresh Rawal), stands by him with unshakable strength and compassion. The film, though centered on Sanjay’s tumultuous journey, is deeply rooted in the emotional bond between father and son—a bond tested, broken, and healed through time. Sanju reminds us that fatherhood isn’t just about guidance; it’s about enduring belief, even when the world stops believing.

Whether your father is the quiet supporter, the fierce protector, or the funny goofball, there’s a Bollywood film in this list that will make you smile, tear up, or just reach for your phone to say “Thanks, Dad.”