Bollywood enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy large-scale, historical, and period productions, are looking forward to 2025. Both directors and viewers have come to love period dramas because of their elaborate storytelling, enormous settings, and portrayals of significant historical periods. In 2025, a number of high-profile films with outstanding casts and gripping storylines are scheduled to be released. Here are a few of the most anticipated Hindi historical drama films of the upcoming year:
1. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj (Directed by Om Raut)
Building on Tanhaji’s popularity and his love of historical epics, Om Raut returns with a movie about the life of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the legendary Maratha warrior king. Shivaji’s battles against the Mughal Empire and the founding of the Maratha empire will be depicted in this eagerly awaited epic. Grandiosity, patriotism, and lengthy fighting scenes are probably in the picture. According to rumors, Ajay Devgn would return to his historical persona as Shivaji, a part he played for a short time in Tanhaji.
What to Expect:
- Visual spectacle with VFX-heavy action sequences.
- Authentic depiction of 17th-century India.
- A patriotic narrative celebrating Maratha pride.
2. Razia Sultan: The Warrior Queen (Directed by Meghna Gulzar)
The inspirational tale of Razia Sultan, the first and only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, will be brought to the big screen by Meghna Gulzar, who is renowned for her nuanced storytelling in movies like Raazi and Talvar. Razia’s journey, her battles against patriarchy, and her political skills will all be covered in the film. Actors like Deepika Padukone and Kriti Sanon are being considered for the title role, which has created a lot of buzz.
What to Expect:
- A strong female-centric historical narrative.
- A deep dive into medieval Indian politics.
- Lavish sets recreating the grandeur of the Sultanate period.
3. Ashoka the Great (Directed by Neeraj Pandey)
With a retelling of Emperor Ashoka’s life, director Neeraj Pandey, who is known for thrillers like Special 26 and A Wednesday, is stepping into the historical genre. This ambitious project will follow Ashoka’s journey from a brutal warrior to a Buddhist peace advocate following the brutal Kalinga War. According to rumors, Ranveer Singh may play Ashoka, lending this iconic character his unparalleled energy.
What to Expect:
- Dramatic battle scenes depicting the Kalinga War.
- Emotional depth focusing on Ashoka’s spiritual journey.
- Authentic recreations of Mauryan architecture and culture.
4. The Battle of Panipat: The Last Stand (Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali)
Sanjay Leela Bhansali is rumored to be working on a film adaptation of the Third Battle of Panipat, one of the most important and bloody conflicts in Indian history, after delivering masterpieces like Padmaavat and Bajirao Mastani. Bhansali is renowned for his dramatic storytelling and stunning visuals, and his adaptation is anticipated to be both epic and tragic. It has been reported that prominent roles are being discussed with Bollywood heavyweights Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal.
What to Expect:
- Stunning cinematography and attention to period details.
- A star-studded cast.
- A focus on the emotional sacrifices of war.
5. Maharani of Jhansi (Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker)
Maharani of Jhansi is being directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, a master of historical dramas with credits including Jodhaa Akbar and Lagaan. Rani Lakshmi Bai’s heroic battle against British colonial forces during the 1857 uprising will be narrated in the movie. Rekindling the spirit of resistance and patriotism is the goal of this film, which tells a compelling and inspirational story. Kangana Ranaut is rumored to be playing the legendary warrior queen again, expanding on her performance in Manikarnika.
What to Expect:
- Awe-inspiring action choreography.
- Historical accuracy and emotional storytelling.
- Patriotic fervor and larger-than-life performances.
6. The Legend of Prithviraj II (Directed by Chandraprakash Dwivedi)
Director Chandraprakash Dwivedi returns with a second chapter that delves into another untold story of Prithviraj Chauhan’s bravery and legacy after Samrat Prithviraj was released in 2022. The resistance of the Rajput warrior king and the fallout from his fabled conflicts will probably be covered in greater detail in this follow-up. Although casting news is still pending, Akshay Kumar may return to the role.
What to Expect:
- Action-packed drama with emphasis on Rajput honor.
- Spectacular battle sequences.
- A compelling continuation of Chauhan’s saga.
Why 2025 is the Year of Period Dramas
Audiences can relive important events and characters through period dramas’ exceptional ability to combine history, drama, and scenic beauty. The 2025 Hindi period film schedule is expected to include:
- Diverse Eras: Filmmakers are examining a range of Indian historical eras, from the colonial struggles to the medieval sultanates.
- Strong Storytelling: Meghna Gulzar, Om Raut, and Sanjay Leela Bhansali are among the directors who contribute their distinctive styles to the genre.
- Technological Advancements: Battles and period settings appear more realistic and immersive than ever thanks to improved visual effects and production values.
2025 will surely be a historic year for Bollywood with such a fantastic slate of historical and period dramas, providing viewers with tales of bravery, legacy, and change in addition to cinematic grandeur.