Punjabi cinema, affectionately known as “Pollywood,” has carved a niche for itself with its vibrant storytelling, foot-tapping music, and talented artists. From rib-tickling comedies to heartwarming dramas, Punjabi movies have won hearts not only in India but also globally. Here’s a list of the top 10 Punjabi movies of all time that you shouldn’t miss:

1. Jatt & Juliet (2012)

• Director: Anurag Singh
• Cast: Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa
• Genre: Romantic Comedy
• Storyline: The film revolves around Fateh, a Punjabi man who wants to marry a Canadian girl to secure citizenship, and Pooja, a Canadian woman visiting Punjab. Their paths cross multiple times, leading to a series of humorous and romantic encounters.
• Notable Performances: Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa deliver stellar performances, making the film a classic in Punjabi romantic comedies.
• Why Iconic? This film is often credited with revitalizing Punjabi cinema and setting a new standard for romantic comedies in the industry.

2. Punjab 1984 (2014)

• Director: Anurag Singh
• Cast: Diljit Dosanjh, Kirron Kher
• Genre: Drama
• Storyline: Set against the backdrop of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, the film follows a mother’s relentless search for her missing son. It explores themes of loss, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit.
• Notable Performances: Kirron Kher delivers a powerful performance as a mother desperate to find her son, while Diljit Dosanjh portrays the missing son with depth and emotion.
• Why Iconic? The film is praised for its sensitive portrayal of a turbulent period in history and its emotional resonance with audiences.

3. Carry on Jatta (2012)

• Director: Smeep Kang
• Cast: Gippy Grewal, Mahie Gill
• Genre: Comedy
• Storyline: The story centers around Jass, who falls in love with Mahie but must navigate a series of comedic misunderstandings and lies to win her over.
• Notable Performances: Gippy Grewal’s comedic timing and Mahie Gill’s charming presence make this film a laugh riot.
• Why Iconic? Known for its slapstick humor and witty dialogues, “Carry on Jatta” is a staple in Punjabi comedy.

Where to Watch

You can enjoy these Punjabi movies on various streaming platforms like Yomovies, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, and MX Player.

4. Qismat (2018)

• Director: Jagdeep Sidhu
• Cast: Ammy Virk, Sargun Mehta
• Genre: Romance
• Storyline: The film explores the complexities of love and fate through the story of Shivjit and Bani, who fall in love despite their different backgrounds and personal struggles.
• Notable Performances: Ammy Virk and Sargun Mehta deliver heartfelt performances that bring depth to their characters.
• Why Iconic? The film’s emotional depth and relatable storyline have made it a favorite among romance enthusiasts.

5. Sufna (2020)

• Director: Jagdeep Sidhu
• Cast: Ammy Virk, Tania
• Genre: Romance
• Storyline: A classic love story set in rural Punjab, where a young man and woman fight against societal norms and family pressures to be together.
• Notable Performances: Ammy Virk and Tania’s chemistry on screen is palpable, making their love story believable and endearing.
• Why Iconic? The film’s beautiful cinematography and heartwarming narrative make it a standout in Punjabi romance.

6. Ardaas (2016)

• Director: Gippy Grewal
• Cast: Gurpreet Ghuggi, Ammy Virk
• Genre: Drama
• Storyline: The film explores various aspects of life, including faith, love, and loss, through a series of interconnected stories.
• Notable Performances: Gurpreet Ghuggi delivers a moving performance that anchors the film’s emotional depth.
• Why Iconic? Known for its spiritual and emotional resonance, “Ardaas” is considered one of the most impactful Punjabi films.

7. Lahoriye (2017)

• Director: Amberdeep Singh
• Cast: Amrinder Gill, Sargun Mehta
• Genre: Drama
• Storyline: A love story that transcends the India-Pakistan border, highlighting the shared cultural heritage and human connections between the two countries.
• Notable Performances: Amrinder Gill and Sargun Mehta deliver powerful performances that bring the story to life.
• Why Iconic? The film’s message of love and unity resonates with audiences on both sides of the border.

8. Chaar Sahibzaade (2014)

• Director: Harry Baweja
• Cast: Om Puri (voice), Harman Baweja (voice)
• Genre: Animation, Historical
• Storyline: A 3D animated film that tells the story of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and the sacrifices of his four sons.
• Notable Performances: The voice acting, particularly by Om Puri, brings depth and emotion to the animated characters.
• Why Iconic? As the first 3D animated film in Punjabi cinema, “Chaar Sahibzaade” set a new standard for storytelling and visual effects.

9. Rabb Da Radio (2017)

• Director: Tarnvir Singh Jagpal, Harry Bhatti
• Cast: Tarsem Jassar, Simi Chahal
• Genre: Family Drama
• Storyline: Set in the 1980s, the film explores the struggles and triumphs of a family as they navigate love, tradition, and societal pressures.
• Notable Performances: Tarsem Jassar delivers a powerful performance that anchors the film’s emotional depth.
• Why Iconic? The film’s heartwarming narrative and strong performances make it a favorite among family drama enthusiasts.

10. Sardar Mohammad (2017)

• Director: Harry Bhatti
• Cast: Tarsem Jassar, Karamjit Anmol
• Genre: Drama
• Storyline: The story of a man adopted from a massacre site, who tries to trace his biological parents in Pakistan, exploring themes of identity and belonging.
• Notable Performances: Tarsem Jassar delivers a nuanced performance that brings depth to his character’s journey.
• Why Iconic? The film’s exploration of identity and cross-border relationships makes it a unique and impactful watch.

Conclusion

Punjabi cinema offers a rich tapestry of stories that cater to every mood and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for a good laugh, a heartwarming drama, or an action-packed thriller, these top 10 Punjabi movies have something for everyone. So, grab some popcorn and dive into the vibrant world of Punjabi cinema!