In the Bollywood world full of dramatic, action and romantic movies, there is also a treasure trove of motivational movies made especially for students. These cinematic masterpieces are not only entertaining but also inspire students to do better in their careers. The best Bollywood motivational movies for students are guiding lights, igniting the flames of ambition and perseverance in young minds’ hearts. In a world full of technology and distractions, if something is lacking in a student’s life, it is motivation and support to study. These Bollywood movies proved to be a package of inspiration & motivation and will leave a big impression on your mind. Delve into the best Bollywood motivational movies for students.
1. 12th Fail
Release Year- 2023
Cast – Vikrant Massey, Medha Shankar, Anant V Joshi, Anshumaan Pushkar
12th Fail is one of the latest Bollywood motivational movies for students, based on the real-life story of IPS Officer Manoj Kumar Sharma and IRS Officer Shraddha Joshi. Manoj Kumar belongs to Chambal village, where cheating in exams is common. He was an average student and belonged to a poor family, so he chose to cheat in 12 the board exam while keeping an eye on the peon’s job. Unfortunately, that year, cheating did not happen, and Manoj failed in class 12th. The next year, he appeared in the same class and passed as DSP Dushyant Singh motivated him. Later, he decided to become an IPS officer and tried hard to crack the UPSEE exam, one of the toughest exams in the world.
2. Chhichhore
Release Year – 2019
Cast – Lt. Shushant Singh Rajput, Shraddha Kapoor, Varun Sharma, Tushar Pandey, Saharsh Kumar Shukla, Prateik Babbar, and Tahir Raj Bhasin
Chhichhore is one of the best movies of the great and late actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Chhichhore is also among the best Bollywood motivational movies for students. It is a heartwarming movie that celebrates the spirit of friendship, resilience and never-say-die attitude. Step against the backdrop of college life, the film follows a group of friends who reunite years later to help a fellow friend and his son navigate the pressure of academic competition. The group of friends was all there to motivate that child. Chhichhore reminds students that failure is just a stepping stone to success.
3. 3 Idiots
Release Year – 2009
Cast – Amir Khan, R Madhavan, Sharman Joshi, Kareena Kapoor, Mona Singh, Boman Irani, and Parikshit Sahni
A timeless classic directed by Rajkumar Hirani, 3 Idiots continues to inspire generations with its witty humour and profound wisdom. The film story is based on three engineering students who challenge conventional norms of education and pursue their true passions. 3 Idiots is one of the best Bollywood motivational movies for students, and it is a great combination of laughter and motivation. With its memorable characters and thought-provoking narratives, 3 Idiots encourages students to think outside the box and prioritise their passion over social pressure.
4. Taare Zameen Par
Release Year – 2007
Cast – Amir Khan, Darsheel Safary, Tisca Chopra, Tanay Chheda, Vipin Sharma, Sachet Engineer and Deepa Bhatia
Another masterpiece by great actor Amir Khan, “Taare Zameen Par”, is truly one of the best Bollywood Motivational movies for students, especially those with special conditions. The story is based on a dyslexic child who struggles in his studies. This student got the right guidance when he met a compassionate teacher. The movie teaches us that we should not underestimate children and strive to understand their talents and abilities. Taare Zameen Par is not only a movie for children and students but also for parents who misjudge their kid’s potential.
5. Dear Zindagi
Release Year – 2016
Cast – Alia Bhatt, Shah Rukh Khan, Ali Zafar, Kunal Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapoor Angad Bedi, Ira Dubey and Rohit Suresh Saraf
Directed by Gauri Shinde, Dear Zindagi is about the life of Kiara, who is a struggling cinematographer. The movie is about life’s challenges and the importance of self-discovery. When she was struggling, Jug, a conventional thinker, helped her gain a new perspective on life. During her sessions, Kaira learns valuable lessons about love, acceptance, and the pursuit of happiness. This is among the best Bollywood motivational movies to watch for students navigating the complexities of adulthood and self-realisation.
6. Mary Kom
Released – 2014
Cast – Priyanka Chopra, Darshan Kumar, Lin Laishram, Sunil Thapa, Rajni Basumatary, Shirshir Sharma and Shaku Kumar
This movie is based on the true-life event of Mary Kom, one of the sports legends of India. Directed by Omung Kumar, Mary Kom truly inspires students and women as well. The movie depicts the biography of the Olympic boxer. You can watch and get inspiration from how she managed her personal and sports life at the same time. From having children to getting back to the ring, Kom shows how she balances it all. If you struggle to continue your studies after marriage or want to follow your passion even after having a family, watch Mary Kom, one of the best Bollywood motivational movies for students.
7. English Vinglish
If you ever need a reminder that it is never too late to learn something new, if you are willing to do so, watch English Vinglish. This movie follows a woman who always faces disrespect because she can’t speak English. However, this all changed when she travelled to the U.S. and enrolled herself in an English-speaking program. She soon started speaking fluent English, earned her own recognition, and broke the stigma created by society. This is among the best Bollywood motivational movies for students and women who are struggling to find their values. This movie teaches us that we can learn anything at any age if there is a will.
Bollywood has a range of movies in genres like action, drama, romance, sci-fi, and animation. But these motivational movies stand as beacons of hope and inspiration for students. Through the compelling stories and iconic actors’ performances, they impart valuable lessons in students’ lives. As students embark on their journeys of self-discovery and growth, these films serve as guidance, reminding them that no dream is big and nothing can interrupt achieving their goals.
