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Mumbai: 2025 was an amazing year for films, especially the South Indian movie industry. The diverse regional movies struck a chord with the pan-indian audience, making them a big commercial success and gaining the appreciation of critics across the country. Some movies were so good that they even overshadowed Bollywood movies. Here's a list of South Indian movies that outperformed Bollywood:
The comedy-drama, featuring M. Sasikumar and Simra, became one of the most successful movies from the south. Though the film's budget was a modest Rs 7-16 crores, the movie minted Rs 88-90 crores worldwide. It went on to earn a spot in the top highest-grossing films from Tamil in 2025. The movie's plot revolved around Sri Lankan refugees in Tamil Nadu. It garnered the attention and love of the family audience.
The Malayalam movie, starring Mohanlal, made waves nationally and internationally. It became one of Malayalam's highest-grossing movies of the year. L2: Empuraan earned over Rs 265 crore globally, meaning it minted Rs 104 crore net in India. The film, which was a sequel to Lucifer, was directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran. The film was also one of Malayalam's big-budget movies.
This Telugu action movie, starring Dhanush in the lead, was a major hit across the country. The North Indian audience loved the movie. It earned Rs 138 crore globally and surpassed the film's budget, which was only Rs 120 crore. The film, directed by Sekhar Kammula, also features Nagarjuna and Rashmika Mandanna. It talks about the story of beggars who impact the life of a wealthy man. Themes such as corruption, morality and greed are explored in the movie.
The movie became actor Ajith Kumar's highest-grossing film ever. The film became one of the top Tamil movies of 2025, crossing Rs 200 crore globally. It was directed by Adhik Ravichandran. Ajith plays the role of a retired gangster who wants to live a normal life with his family. However, he is forced to return to his old ways due to circumstances.
Rishab Shetty's masterpiece became one of India's greatest blockbusters this year. The film's stunning visuals, its cultural representation and intense emotions connected with the audience. The movie grossed more than Rs 850 crore worldwide, making it one of the biggest Indian films of 2025.