Some Famous Bollywood Martial Arts Movies
Bollywood, the vibrant film industry of India, is renowned for its larger than life song and dance sequences, dramatic storylines, and iconic stars. But amidst the colorful song picturizations and emotional melodramas, there exists a dedicated space for action-packed martial arts movies. While not as prolific as Hollywood’s martial arts offerings, Bollywood films have carved their own niche, often blending traditional fighting styles with high-octane action and charismatic heroes.
Let’s delve into some of the notable martial arts movies that have captivated Indian audiences:
Also Read: Best Martial Arts for Self-Defence
While some Bollywood martial arts movies borrow from established styles, others like “Chandni Chowk to China” (2009) and “The Flying Dutchman” (2010) create a more fantastical world with fictional fighting styles. However, there’s a growing trend of incorporating traditional Indian martial arts like Kalaripayattu and Mardhangkali into mainstream cinema. Movies like “Warrior Savitri” (2016) and “Aadhya” (2019) are bringing these ancient fighting styles to light for a wider audience.
The Future of Martial Arts in Bollywood

As Bollywood continues to evolve, martial arts movies are likely to hold a prominent space. With actors like Tiger Shroff raising the bar for action sequences and a growing audience for high-octane entertainment, we can expect to see more innovative and visually stunning martial arts films emerge from the Indian film industry. These movies not only entertain but also create a platform for cultural exchange, showcasing the rich heritage of Indian martial arts. Here are some additional points to consider:
List of Best Martial Arts Movies Worldwide
From the adrenaline-pumping action of “Enter the Dragon” to the graceful elegance of “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and the inspiring story of resilience in “Ip Man,” these martial arts movies captivate audiences worldwide with their thrilling fight sequences, compelling narratives, and unforgettable characters.
|
Movie Title |
Year |
Description |
|
Enter the Dragon |
1973 |
Bruce Lee infiltrates a deadly tournament on a private island to uncover a drug trafficking operation. |
|
Drunken Master |
1978 |
Jackie Chan displays his comedic yet lethal martial arts skills as he learns the art of Drunken Boxing to defeat foes. |
|
The 36th Chamber of Shaolin |
1978 |
A young man trains in Shaolin martial arts to seek revenge against oppressive Manchu rulers in this classic film. |
|
Fist of Legend |
1994 |
Jet Li stars in this remake of “Fist of Fury,” where he seeks revenge against the Japanese who killed his master. |
|
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon |
2000 |
Ang Lee’s masterpiece follows the journey of a legendary sword, intertwining the fates of skilled warriors. |
|
Hero |
2002 |
Jet Li stars in this visually stunning film, where a nameless warrior recounts his battles with powerful enemies. |
|
Ong-Bak: Muay Thai Warrior |
2003 |
Tony Jaa showcases his extraordinary martial arts skills as he seeks to retrieve a stolen statue from a crime lord. |
|
Kill Bill: Vol. 1 |
2003 |
Uma Thurman seeks vengeance against her former associates in this Quentin Tarantino film filled with stylized action. |
|
Ip Man |
2008 |
Donnie Yen portrays the Wing Chun master Ip Man, depicting his struggles during the Japanese occupation of China. |
|
The Raid: Redemption |
2011 |
A SWAT team battles their way through a high-rise filled with ruthless criminals in this Indonesian action film. |
Overall, Bollywood martial arts movies offer a unique blend of action, drama, and cultural identity. They entertain audiences with high-octane fight sequences, showcase the dedication and skill of actors like Tiger Shroff, and contribute to the preservation and appreciation of traditional Indian martial arts. So, whether you’re a die-hard Bollywood buff or a casual action movie fan, give these films a chance – you might just discover your next favorites martial arts hero on screen.