7 Bollywood Movies Released in 2016 That Still Rule Our Hearts

Dear Zindagi (2016) is a Hindi coming-of-age drama that delves into mental health, emotional healing, and self-discovery. It follows Kaira (Alia Bhatt), a talented cinematographer struggling with insomnia and failed relationships, who turns to an unconventional psychologist, Dr. Jehangir "Jug" Khan (Shah Rukh Khan), for guidance. Through their sessions, Kaira learns to confront her fears, embrace life’s imperfections, and find true happiness. 

Sultan (2016) is a Hindi sports drama that tells the inspiring story of Sultan Ali Khan (Salman Khan), a local wrestling champion from rural Haryana who faces fame, personal loss, and a challenging comeback. Directed by Ali Abbas Zafar and produced by Aditya Chopra, the film also stars Anushka Sharma, Randeep Hooda, and Amit Sadh. Blending intense wrestling action with emotional depth, Sultan is an underdog tale of resilience, redemption, and triumph.

M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story (2016) is a Hindi biographical sports drama that chronicles the life of former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the film stars Sushant Singh Rajput as Dhoni, alongside Kiara Advani, Disha Patani, and Anupam Kher. From his childhood in Ranchi and his early struggles as a railway ticket collector to leading India to the 2011 Cricket World Cup, the film portrays Dhoni’s journey of perseverance, personal loss, and ultimate triumph.

Rustom (2016) is a Hindi crime thriller inspired by the real-life Nanavati case, starring Akshay Kumar as naval officer Rustom Pavri. When he discovers his wife Cynthia’s (Ileana D’Cruz) affair, Rustom kills her lover Vikram (Arjan Bajwa) and surrenders, leading to a sensational courtroom drama. Balancing personal betrayal with uncovering Navy corruption, Rustom defends himself in court, ultimately winning acquittal amidst widespread public support.

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016) is a Hindi musical romantic drama by Karan Johar that explores unrequited love, friendship, and heartbreak. Starring Ranbir Kapoor as Ayan, Anushka Sharma as Alizeh, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan as Saba, the film follows Ayan’s journey through deep bonds, one-sided love, and emotional loss. From unreciprocated feelings for Alizeh to a fleeting romance with Saba, the story captures the pain and beauty of love, ultimately shaping Ayan’s path as a successful musician.

Dangal (2016) is a Hindi biographical sports drama that tells the inspiring story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters, Geeta and Babita, to become world-class athletes. Defying societal norms, Mahavir turns his daughters’ talent into India’s pride, leading them to international wrestling glory. A critical and commercial triumph, Dangal became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time, earning over ₹2,000 crore.

Fitoor (2016) is a Hindi romantic drama directed by Abhishek Kapoor, inspired by Charles Dickens's Great Expectations. The film stars Aditya Roy Kapur as Noor, a poor Kashmiri boy, and Katrina Kaif as Firdaus, the daughter of the aristocratic Begum Hazrat Jahaan (Tabu). Following a childhood love separated by ambition and manipulation, Noor rises as a successful artist and reunites with Firdaus, navigating love, betrayal, and heartbreak in this tragic, star-crossed romance.