In Bollywood, trends come and go, but Aamir Khan has consistently stayed ahead of the curve. Known as Mr. Perfectionist, he has built a career on risk-taking, groundbreaking storytelling, and performances that left an entire generation hooked to cinema. From redefining romance in the late ’80s to delivering thought-provoking social dramas in the 2000s, his films didn’t just entertain – they changed Bollywood forever. Though he has delivered several outstanding performances, it wasn’t easy to narrow down the top 10 Aamir Khan movies. Over his career, Aamir Khan has acted in 42 films in major roles, with the count rising to nearly 59 when including cameos and voice credits.
Here’s a look at the Top 10 Aamir Khan movies that shaped the industry, influenced filmmakers, and became cultural milestones.
1. Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) – The New Age Romance
This was the film that introduced Aamir as a lead actor and revived the idea of tragic romance in Bollywood. The music, youthful love story, and Aamir’s boy-next-door charm instantly connected with audiences. It kick-started the era of chocolate-boy heroes and marked a fresh wave in Hindi cinema.
2. Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992) – Sports + Emotions Combo
Before India had mainstream sports dramas, this film showed how a high-school cycling race could pack as much thrill as a cricket final. The underdog story, iconic soundtrack (Pehla Nasha), and Aamir’s transformation into a determined athlete set the template for future sports films in Bollywood.
3. Sarfarosh (1999) – Patriotism Meets Realism
This action-drama wasn’t about exaggerated heroics but about intelligence, grit, and duty. Playing an honest cop investigating cross-border terrorism, Aamir gave one of his most restrained yet powerful performances. The film’s realism made it stand apart in a decade dominated by masala entertainers.
4. Lagaan (2001) – Bollywood Goes Global
This is the film that made the world sit up and notice Indian cinema. A story about farmers challenging the British to a cricket match became an international sensation. With its Oscar nomination, Lagaan proved Bollywood could produce globally relevant, quality storytelling while staying rooted in Indian culture.
5. Dil Chahta Hai (2001) – Redefining Friendship Onscreen
Released the same year as Lagaan, this film changed how Bollywood portrayed urban youth. No melodrama, no over-the-top dialogues—just relatable characters navigating love, friendship, and adulthood. Aamir, as the carefree Akash, became the voice of an entire generation.
6. Rang De Basanti (2006) – Cinema as a Revolution
This film blurred the lines between reel and real life. Aamir, alongside a young ensemble cast, showed how ordinary college kids could turn into revolutionaries. Its mix of history, politics, and pop culture sparked debates, inspired protests, and proved cinema can be an agent of social change.
7. Taare Zameen Par (2007) – Bollywood Finds Its Heart
As a director, Aamir brought sensitivity to a subject Bollywood had ignored—dyslexia in children. His portrayal of an empathetic teacher and the moving narrative redefined how mainstream films could tackle education, parenting, and childhood struggles. It remains one of India’s most impactful films.
8. Ghajini (2008) – The Rise of Bollywood Blockbusters
The first Bollywood film to officially cross ₹100 crore at the box office, Ghajini started the “100-crore club.” It also brought psychological thrillers and high-intensity action into mainstream Hindi cinema. Aamir’s physical transformation and intensity became iconic.
9. 3 Idiots (2009) – Education System Under the Scanner
This film wasn’t just a blockbuster- it was a cultural reset. Highlighting flaws in India’s rigid education system, 3 Idiots became the highest-grossing Bollywood movie at the time and sparked real-world conversations about creativity, pressure, and success. “All is well” became a generational anthem.
10. Dangal (2016) – Breaking Box Office Records Worldwide
Based on the real-life Phogat sisters, Dangal was a mix of sports, feminism, and family drama. Aamir’s dedication to gaining and losing massive weight for his role earned global respect. It became the highest-grossing Indian film ever, proving Indian cinema could dominate international markets.
Conclusion
From youthful romances to films that sparked social change, these top 10 Aamir Khan movies have consistently broken molds and set new benchmarks. These films didn’t just shape his career—they shaped Bollywood itself. Whether it was taking Indian cinema to the Oscars, questioning the education system, or redefining sports dramas, Aamir Khan remains the game-changer Bollywood didn’t know it needed but can’t imagine itself without.
FAQ
Lagaan (2001) was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards.
Dangal (2016), which grossed over ₹2,000 crore worldwide.
Because of his dedication to roles, script choices, and perfectionist approach to storytelling and acting.
Ghajini (2008) was the first Bollywood film to enter the 100-crore club.
