The Indian film industry demonstrated remarkable resilience and creativity in 2024, showcasing spectacular blockbusters and enthralling audiences worldwide. The year was marked by significant box-office hits, and the trends evident within this year's top grossers indicate what resonates with viewers today.
The highest-grossing film of the year was Stree 2, which successfully captivated audiences with its clever mix of horror and comedy. Starring Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, Stree 2 grossed approximately Rs 837 crore globally. This sequel has not only maintained the charm of its predecessor but has also amplified it, confirming the audience's affinity for supernatural elements blended with humor.
Following close behind was Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, the third installment of the beloved series starring Kartik Aaryan, which secured its spot as the second highest grosser with around Rs 371 crore. Critics may have offered mixed reviews, but the film's success at the box office speaks volumes about Aaryan's growing star power. Aaryan remarked, “Despite earning mixed reviews from critics and audience alike, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 became a box office success.” His ability to resonate with the audience has only been fortified by this hit, which features popular actors Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, and Tripti Dimri.
Achieving the third spot was Singham Again, the latest chapter featuring Ajay Devgn as the iconic cop, grossing approximately Rs 367 crore. The film combined intense action sequences with engaging drama, continuing the franchise's legacy of success.
Other notable mentions include Fighter, which grossed Rs 340 crore featuring action stars Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone. The film was heralded for its thrilling action sequences and high-paced narrative, confirming the appeal of star power and strong marketing strategies. There was also Shaitaan, with gross earnings of Rs 210 crore, attracting attention due to its compelling plot and high-quality performances.
The year was also significant for Kartik Aaryan, who not only starred but also announced another collaboration with Dharma Productions, set to be released in 2026, continuing the excitement surrounding his rising career.
On the other hand, films like Crew and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jeeya performed respectably, with gross earnings of Rs 150 crore and Rs 136 crore respectively. Both films showcased strong ensemble casts and unique narratives, proving their worth at the box office.
Overall, the top earners of 2024 affirm the trend toward franchise films, sequels, and star-driven narratives as the dominant forces shaping the Indian box office. It seems audiences are craving cinematic experiences they already know and love, evidenced by how sequels like Stree 2 and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3* have performed.
With these insights, it is clear the Indian film industry continues to thrive, adapting to the demands of audiences and showcasing the talent within. The successful patterns of storytelling, relatability, and star power are attributes upon which future releases can build upon to capture even greater success.