Aamir Khan’s Top Films: A Definitive Ranking

Aamir Khan is celebrated as one of Bollywood’s most versatile and influential actors, with a filmography that blends powerful storytelling, memorable performances, and commercial success. Here are the top 7 hit movies of Aamir Khan that every film lover should watch, including their release year, main cast, where to stream, and a concise description of each.

1. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (Akash Malhotra), Saif Ali Khan (Sameer), Akshaye Khanna (Siddharth Sinha), Preity Zinta (Shalini), Dimple Kapadia (Tara Jaiswal)
• OTT Platform: Netflix
• Description:
  Dil Chahta Hai marked a turning point in Hindi cinema with its fresh depiction of urban friendship, love, and aspirations. Set primarily in Mumbai and Goa, the film follows three inseparable friends whose bond is tested when life leads each on a different path of romance and self-discovery. Farhan Akhtar’s directorial debut is remembered for modern dialogues, contemporary music, and capturing the youthful spirit of millennial India, making it a definitive classic you simply cannot miss.

2. Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (Bhuvan), Gracy Singh (Gauri), Rachel Shelley (Elizabeth Russell), Paul Blackthorne (Captain Andrew Russell)
• OTT Platform: Netflix
• Description:
  Set in colonial India, Lagaan is an epic sports drama where a drought-stricken village is challenged by British officers to a cricket match as a wager for tax relief. Led by Bhuvan, the villagers learn cricket from scratch, uniting against imperial oppression. With stunning storytelling, rich period detail, and an Oscar nomination, Lagaan remains a cinematic milestone that blends patriotism, teamwork, and resilience. Its stirring narrative and soundtrack continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.

3. Rang De Basanti (2006)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (Daljit “DJ” Singh), Siddharth (Karan Singhania), Sharman Joshi (Sukhi), Kunal Kapoor (Aslam), Soha Ali Khan (Sonia), Atul Kulkarni (Lakshman Pandey), Alice Patten (Sue)
• OTT Platform: Netflix / Prime Video
• Description:
  Rang De Basanti explores patriotism through the eyes of a group of university friends who act in a docu-drama about Indian revolutionaries. Their journey from apathy to activism is triggered by a tragic loss, leading them to challenge the system—mirroring the freedom fighters of India’s past. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s direction powerfully links generational change with social responsibility, making it a must-watch for those seeking drama, meaning, and memorable performances.

4. Ghajini (2008)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (Sanjay Singhania), Asin (Kalpana), Jiah Khan (Sunita)
• OTT Platform: Prime Video
• Description:
  Based on the South Indian original, Ghajini is a psychological action thriller featuring Aamir Khan as a businessman with short-term memory loss. Driven by love and revenge, he must solve the puzzle of his lover’s murder using tattoos and notes. The film is renowned for its intense narrative, high-octane action, and Aamir’s physical transformation. With strong emotional undercurrents and suspenseful direction, Ghajini kept viewers on the edge and became a box office blockbuster.

5. 3 Idiots (2009)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (Rancho), R. Madhavan (Farhan), Sharman Joshi (Raju), Kareena Kapoor (Pia), Boman Irani (Virus)
• OTT Platform: Netflix / Prime Video
• Description:
  3 Idiots revolutionized Bollywood’s approach to education, challenging rote learning and social pressures. Set in an elite engineering college, the story follows three students whose friendship, wit, and out-of-the-box thinking shake up the academic establishment. With laughter, tears, and unforgettable phrases like “All is well!”, it critiques societal norms while celebrating creativity and individuality. 3 Idiots remains a favorite across all ages, making it essential viewing for its blend of humor, message, and heart.

6. PK (2014)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (PK), Anushka Sharma (Jaggu), Sushant Singh Rajput (Sarfaraz), Boman Irani (Cherry), Saurabh Shukla (Tapasvi Maharaj)
• OTT Platform: Netflix
• Description:
  In PK, Aamir Khan plays an alien visiting Earth, questioning religious dogma through innocence and comedy. The film takes a bold stance against blind faith and superstitions, using satire to lampoon social customs. Thought-provoking, emotional, and surprisingly uplifting, PK broke box office records and stirred debate on the state of religion and society. Rajkumar Hirani’s direction and Aamir’s quirky performance resulted in a cult classic that challenges viewers to see the world anew.

7. Dangal (2016)

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan (Mahavir Singh Phogat), Fatima Sana Shaikh (Geeta), Sanya Malhotra (Babita)
• OTT Platform: JIO Hotstar
• Description:
  Based on a true story, Dangal chronicles the journey of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, Geeta and Babita, who shatter stereotypes to win international medals. Aamir Khan’s compelling transformation into a tough yet loving father anchors the narrative, which tackles women’s empowerment, perseverance, and family bonds. The wrestling sequences, emotional depth, and remarkable performances make Dangal one of Bollywood’s most inspirational biopics—a film that motivates as much as it entertains

Aamir Khan’s filmography reflects his relentless pursuit of unique stories and engaging characters. Whether tackling social themes, historical drama, action, or pure entertainment, these seven films are essential viewing for anyone who wants to experience the very best of Bollywood—and understand why Aamir Khan is truly iconic.