South Indian cinema has captivated audiences worldwide with its grandeur, storytelling, and box office success. From Kannada to Telugu, Tamil to Malayalam, these films have not only dominated regional markets but have also made significant impacts globally. Here’s a comprehensive list of the highest-grossing South Indian movies of all time by worldwide box office collections, including the best performers from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh/Telangana, Kerala, and Karnataka.
Top South Indian Box Office Hits
Below is a detailed look at the top 50 highest-grossing South Indian movies, showcasing their worldwide earnings. This dynamic list includes films from various Indian languages and is regularly updated to reflect the latest box office figures.
Leading the Charge: Record-Breaking Films
- Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹1,810.595 crore
- Language: Telugu, Tamil
- Summary: This epic action film set new standards for Indian cinema with its spectacular visuals and compelling story.
- RRR (2022)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹1,387.26 crore
- Language: Telugu
- Summary: A historical fiction action film that brought together two of Tollywood’s biggest stars, creating a massive box office hit.
- KGF: Chapter 2 (2022)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹1,200–1,250 crore
- Language: Kannada
- Summary: The sequel to the blockbuster KGF, this film continued the saga of Rocky and shattered box office records.
- Kalki 2898 AD (2024)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹1,100 crore
- Language: Telugu
- Summary: A futuristic action film that quickly garnered a massive following and impressive box office returns.
- Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire (2023)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹700 crore
- Language: Telugu
- Summary: This action-packed film from the makers of KGF captivated audiences with its intense storyline and stunning visuals.
- 2.0 (2018)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹699.89 crore
- Language: Tamil
- Summary: A sci-fi thriller starring Rajinikanth, this movie amazed audiences with its cutting-edge special effects.
- Baahubali: The Beginning (2015)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹600–650 crore
- Language: Telugu, Tamil
- Summary: The first part of the Baahubali saga, which set the stage for one of India’s biggest cinematic events.
- Leo (2023)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹595–620.5 crore
- Language: Tamil
- Summary: A gripping action thriller that resonated with audiences and performed exceptionally well at the box office.
- Ponniyin Selvan: I (2022)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹450–500 crore
- Language: Tamil
- Summary: Based on the classic Tamil novel, this historical epic was a visual feast and a major box office success.
- Vikram (2022)
- Worldwide Gross: ₹435–500 crore
- Language: Tamil
- Summary: A high-octane action film that thrilled audiences with its narrative and star-studded cast.
Rank Movie Title Earnings Language Year Record-Breaking Films
| Rank | Movie Title | Earnings | Language | Year |
| 11 | PK | ₹769.89 crore | Hindi | 2014 |
| 12 | Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire | ₹700 crore | Telugu | 2023 |
| 13 | 2 | ₹699.89 crore | Tamil | 2018 |
| 14 | Gadar 2 | ₹691.08 crore | Hindi | 2023 |
| 15 | Sultan | ₹623.33 crore | Hindi | 2016 |
| 16 | Jailer | ₹607–650 crore | Tamil | 2023 |
| 17 | Baahubali: The Beginning | ₹600–650 crore | Telugu, Tamil | 2015 |
| 18 | Leo | ₹595–620.5 crore | Tamil | 2023 |
| 19 | Sanju | ₹586.85 crore | Hindi | 2018 |
| 20 | Padmaavat | ₹571.98 crore | Hindi | 2018 |
| 21 | Tiger Zinda Hai | ₹565.10 crore | Hindi | 2017 |
| 22 | Dhoom 3 | ₹556.74 crore | Hindi | 2013 |
| 23 | War | ₹475.62 crore | Hindi | 2019 |
| 24 | Dunki | ₹470.6 crore | Hindi | 2023 |
| 25 | Tiger 3 | ₹466.63 crore | Hindi | 2023 |
| 26 | Andhadhun | ₹456.89 crore | Hindi | 2018 |
| 27 | Ponniyin Selvan: I | ₹450–500 crore | Tamil | 2022 |
| 28 | Vikram | ₹435–500 crore | Tamil | 2022 |
| 29 | Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva | ₹430.77 crore | Hindi | 2022 |
| 30 | Saaho | ₹419–439 crore | Telugu, Hindi | 2019 |
| 31 | Chennai Express | ₹424.54 crore | Hindi | 2013 |
| 32 | 3 Idiots | ₹400.61 crore | Hindi | 2009 |
| 33 | Simmba | ₹400.19 crore | Hindi | 2018 |
| 34 | Kantara | ₹393.3–450 crore | Kannada | 2022 |
| 35 | Krrish 3 | ₹393.37 crore | Hindi | 2013 |
| 36 | Kick | ₹388.7 crore | Hindi | 2014 |
| 37 | Prem Ratan Dhan Payo | ₹388.48 crore | Hindi | 2015 |
| 38 | Happy New Year | ₹383.1 crore | Hindi | 2014 |
| 39 | Kabir Singh | ₹379.02 crore | Hindi | 2019 |
| 40 | Dilwale | ₹376.85 crore | Hindi | 2015 |
| 41 | Tanhaji | ₹367.65 crore | Hindi | 2020 |
| 42 | Pushpa: The Rise | ₹365–373 crore | Telugu | 2021 |
| 43 | Bajirao Mastani | ₹355.61 crore | Hindi | 2015 |
| 44 | Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani | ₹355.61 crore | Hindi | 2023 |
| 45 | Adipurush | ₹354 crore | Hindi, Telugu | 2023 |
| 46 | Ponniyin Selvan: II | ₹350 crore | Tamil | 2023 |
| 46 | Hanu-Man | ₹350 crore | Telugu | 2024 |
| 47 | Drishyam 2 | ₹345.05 crore | Hindi | 2022 |
| 48 | Uri: The Surgical Strike | ₹342.06 crore | Hindi | 2019 |
| 50 | The Kashmir Files | ₹340.92 crore | Hindi | 2022 |
South Indian Cinema’s Global Influence
South Indian films have not only dominated their regional markets but have also made a significant impact globally. With high production values, innovative storytelling, and compelling performances, these movies have set new benchmarks for success.
Emerging Trends in South Indian Cinema
- Epic Narratives: Films like Baahubali and RRR have shown the potential of grand, epic storytelling that appeals to a broad audience.
- Technological Advancements: Movies like 2.0 have pushed the envelope with state-of-the-art special effects and futuristic themes.
- Diverse Genres: From historical epics to sci-fi thrillers, South Indian cinema is exploring a wide range of genres, attracting varied audiences.
Conclusion
The highest-grossing South Indian movies of all time have set the stage for the future of Indian cinema. Their success at the box office is a testament to the industry’s growth and its ability to deliver engaging, high-quality films that resonate with audiences worldwide. As South Indian cinema continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly keep breaking records and setting new standards for excellence in filmmaking.