What are the best Bollywood movies to watch for beginners?

Bollywood, a portmanteau of "Bombay" and "Hollywood," refers to the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai and is one of the largest film industries in the world, producing over 1,000 films each year.

The term "Bollywood" first came into use in the 1970s and has since become synonymous with Hindi films, characterized by their colorful storytelling, musical numbers, and elaborate sets.

The popularity of Bollywood music is so significant that it influences wedding cultures across South Asia, often featuring hit songs from films in ceremonies and celebrations worldwide.

Amitabh Bachchan, a central figure in Bollywood, rose to fame in the 1970s and is often referred to as the "Shahenshah" (Emperor) of Indian cinema, with a film career spanning over five decades.

The "masala" genre of Bollywood films blends various elements, including romance, action, comedy, and drama, appealing to a broad audience by incorporating diverse storytelling techniques.

The use of vibrant costumes and dance choreography in Bollywood is not merely aesthetic; it often conveys emotions and cultural values, making dance a storytelling element rather than just entertainment.

Songs in Bollywood films are commonly pre-released and often become chart-toppers, significantly impacting the film's commercial success.

A catchy soundtrack can enhance a film’s popularity far beyond its theatrical release.

Many Bollywood films are known for their runtime, which often exceeds two hours, allowing for extensive character development and multiple subplots, a reflection of traditional Indian storytelling approaches.

Bollywood has expanded globally, with significant cultural exchanges occurring, evidenced by collaborations with western artists and the incorporation of diverse genres to attract international audiences.

The absurdist humor often present in Bollywood films stems from the influence of Indian theatre and folk traditions, emphasizing exaggerated situations and comic relief amidst serious narratives.

International film festivals have increasingly recognized Bollywood films, leading to a more substantial presence on global cinema stages and increasing the visibility of Indian culture and talent worldwide.

The phenomenon of "Bollywoodization” in other film industries entails adopting Bollywood's characteristic musical and narrative styles, illustrating its profound cultural impact across various global contexts.

Bollywood's influence on fashion trends is noteworthy, with prominent actors often acting as cultural icons, defining contemporary styles and influencing consumer behavior in India and beyond.

The industry employs a vast number of people, from actors and directors to technicians and dancers, significantly contributing to the Indian economy and providing livelihoods to thousands.

The representation of gender roles in Bollywood films has evolved, showing a gradual shift from traditional portrayals of women to more complex characters reflecting modern societal roles.

Regional cinema within India, such as Tamil and Telugu films, is making strides alongside Bollywood, showcasing the country's diverse linguistic and cultural landscape, with regional films sometimes overshadowing Hindi films in certain markets.

The shift towards digital streaming platforms has transformed how Bollywood films are consumed, with increased accessibility allowing global audiences to explore various genres and regional films that were previously hard to find.

Bollywood is known for its unique marketing strategies, leveraging social media and fan engagement to generate buzz and excitement before a film's release with teaser trailers, promotional events, and behind-the-scenes content.

The impact of Bollywood extends to the diaspora, where Indian communities abroad view Bollywood films as a way to retain cultural ties while also introducing mainstream culture to the local context, often leading to hybrid forms of storytelling.