What are the top Hindi business movies to watch?

Shanghai is a gripping political thriller that, while not directly about business, delves deeply into the corrupt underbelly of development and infrastructure projects – areas where significant business interests lie. The film exposes the nexus between politicians, bureaucrats, and powerful individuals who manipulate the system for their own gain. Abhay Deol, Emraan Hashmi, and Kalki Koechlin deliver strong performances as their characters get entangled in a web of deceit and power struggles surrounding a major business initiative. Directed by Dibakar Banerjee, the movie offers a cynical yet realistic portrayal of how 'progress' can often come at the cost of ethics and transparency. It's a thought-provoking watch that sheds light on the dark side of large-scale 'business' ventures and the political maneuvering involved. If you're interested in how power and money intertwine in the context of national development, Shanghai provides a compelling, if bleak, perspective.

A Wednesday! is a taut thriller that, while not a business movie in the traditional sense, brilliantly showcases strategic planning and execution – qualities essential in any high-stakes business endeavor. This film is a masterclass in suspense, revolving around a common man's meticulously planned act of defiance against the system. Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher deliver riveting performances, making every moment count. The 'business' here is the precise and calculated operation undertaken by the protagonist, demonstrating an almost corporate level of foresight and risk management to achieve his objective. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the film keeps you on the edge of your seat, proving that even seemingly simple plans can have profound impacts when executed with precision. It's a powerful narrative about an individual taking matters into his own hands, driven by a clear, albeit unconventional, 'mission statement'.

Page 3 offers a stark and often unsettling look at the nexus between media, high society, and business, particularly through the lens of a journalist navigating the superficial world of celebrity. Konkona Sen Sharma delivers a nuanced performance as a reporter covering the lives of the rich and famous, slowly uncovering the darker truths beneath the glamorous facade. While not explicitly a 'business' film, it exposes the transactional nature of relationships and the commercial interests that drive the social pages. It highlights how PR, branding, and networking are crucial 'business' tools in the world of elites. Directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, the film is known for its realistic portrayal and critical commentary on the superficiality and moral compromises prevalent in certain sections of society. It’s a compelling watch that reveals the 'business' of maintaining appearances and controlling narratives.

While primarily a drama about the fashion industry, Fashion provides a fascinating glimpse into the business side of this glamorous yet demanding world. Priyanka Chopra delivers a powerful, award-winning performance as an aspiring model who rises to the top, only to face the harsh realities of fame and fortune. The film, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, meticulously details the inner workings of the fashion business: from the cutthroat competition among models and designers to the intricate financial dealings and brand endorsements. It exposes the pressures, the exploitation, and the fleeting nature of success in an industry driven by trends and appearances. Fashion is not just about the runway; it's about the business of creating and selling an image, and the personal cost involved. It's an insightful watch for those curious about the commercial machinery behind the glitz and glamour.

Step into the cutthroat world of corporate espionage and power plays with Madhur Bhandarkar's Corporate. This film offers a gritty and realistic look at the ruthless competition within the Indian business landscape. Bipasha Basu delivers a strong performance as a driven executive navigating the moral ambiguities and intense rivalries of the corporate ladder. The movie exposes the darker side of big business, from unethical practices to the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of success. It delves into the internal politics, mergers, and acquisitions that define the high-stakes game of corporate warfare. While it might not be a feel-good movie, Corporate is an unflinching portrayal of the pressures and challenges faced by individuals striving to make it in a highly competitive environment. It's a thought-provoking watch for anyone interested in the inner workings and often harsh realities of the business world.

While not strictly a 'business' movie in the traditional sense, Special 26 deserves a spot for its brilliant depiction of a con operation that cleverly mimics legitimate business practices. This heist thriller, inspired by true events, showcases a group of con artists who pose as CBI officers and conduct fake raids. Akshay Kumar leads an ensemble cast including Anupam Kher and Manoj Bajpayee, all delivering top-notch performances. The film's genius lies in its meticulous planning and execution of these 'operations,' which require a keen understanding of human psychology and bureaucratic loopholes – skills often found in the business world. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the narrative is incredibly slick and keeps you guessing at every turn. It's a thrilling watch that highlights how even illicit 'businesses' require strategic thinking and impeccable teamwork. Special 26 is a masterclass in suspense and deception, demonstrating that sometimes, the most successful 'ventures' are those that operate just outside the law.

Enter the intense world of stock market manipulation and family legacy with Baazaar. This film is a gripping thriller that explores the dark side of ambition and the lengths people will go to achieve success in the financial world. Saif Ali Khan delivers a nuanced performance as a ruthless business magnate, while Rohan Mehra makes his debut as a young, ambitious protégé. The movie delves into the complexities of insider trading and the moral dilemmas faced by those entangled in the high-stakes game of money. Directed by Gauravv K. Chawla, Baazaar maintains a suspenseful atmosphere, keeping you on the edge of your seat as fortunes are made and lost. It's a stark reminder that in the world of big business, not everything is as it seems, and the pursuit of wealth can come at a very high cost. If you're fascinated by the intricacies of the stock market and human greed, this film offers a compelling, albeit cautionary, tale.

Dive into the world of high finance and big risks with The Big Bull. This film takes a dramatic look at the life of a stockbroker who rises to prominence during the 1980s and 90s. Abhishek Bachchan delivers a compelling performance as the ambitious Harshad Mehta-inspired character, navigating the cutthroat world of the Indian stock market. The movie attempts to capture the essence of a controversial period in financial history, highlighting the allure and dangers of speculative trading. It's a narrative that explores the grey areas of ambition and the consequences of unchecked power. While it draws parallels to real-life events, the film crafts its own dramatic arc, focusing on the individual's journey through a complex system. The Big Bull offers a glimpse into the mechanics of the market and the high stakes involved in chasing fortunes.

Step into the dazzling world of wedding planning with Band Baaja Baaraat! This film is an absolute riot, bursting with energy and a fantastic entrepreneurial spirit. Starring the dynamic duo of Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma in their breakout roles, the movie chronicles the hilarious and often chaotic journey of Bittoo and Shruti as they build their wedding planning business from the ground up. What's truly captivating about this film is its authentic portrayal of starting a small business: the initial struggles, the creative solutions, and the sheer dedication required. The chemistry between the leads is electric, making every scene a joy to watch. Directed by Maneesh Sharma, it's a film that perfectly blends romance, comedy, and the nitty-gritty of business. The soundtrack is incredibly catchy, with songs like 'Ainvayi Ainvayi' becoming instant hits. Band Baaja Baaraat isn't just a love story; it's a testament to the power of partnership and the thrill of turning a passion into a successful venture. You'll be tapping your feet and cheering for their business every step of the way!

Prepare to be charmed and inspired by Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year! This film is a breath of fresh air, offering a truly unique perspective on the world of sales and entrepreneurship. Ranbir Kapoor shines as Harpreet Singh Bedi, a young man who challenges the conventional wisdom of corporate life and proves that integrity and customer satisfaction can indeed lead to success. What makes this movie so special is its grounded, realistic approach to business. It avoids the usual tropes and instead focuses on the genuine struggles and triumphs of an honest individual. Directed by Shimit Amin, the film beautifully captures the essence of a startup culture before it became a buzzword, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices and genuine service. It's a delightful watch that will make you rethink what it means to be successful in business. Rocket Singh is not just about sales; it's about finding your own path and staying true to your values, even when the odds are stacked against you.

Get ready to be utterly captivated by Guru, a cinematic masterpiece that dives deep into the world of ambition and enterprise! Loosely inspired by the life of Dhirubhai Ambani, this film is a tour de force with Abhishek Bachchan delivering a powerhouse performance that truly defines his career. His portrayal of Gurukant Desai, a man who dreams big and chases those dreams relentlessly, is nothing short of phenomenal. The film's narrative, directed by the brilliant Mani Ratnam, is a masterclass in storytelling, showcasing the rise of a business tycoon from humble beginnings. The music by A.R. Rahman is, as always, exceptional, with tracks like 'Tere Bina' and 'Barso Re' adding incredible depth and emotion to the journey. Guru isn't just a business movie; it's an epic tale of resilience, innovation, and the spirit of a true visionary. You'll find yourself rooting for Guru, even as he navigates the complex and often cutthroat world of industry. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves a compelling rags-to-riches story!