50 best motivational movies for students Bollywood
Table of Contents
Brief idea on Motivational movie story:
The film world is made for fun and enjoyment, but there are some films that will change your whole world. All the films are full of action and entertainment but along with that the story of some films will influence you so much that it has the power to improve you.
Today we will know the names of some such films that will show the path of improvement in the life of students and will motivate them to work hard. The stories of all the films given below are like this, some person’s struggle has been shown, someone’s lifestyle, and someone’s hard work, which will inspire us a lot towards new thinking, towards living a healthy life and will motivate us to work hard. Let’s know the names of the 50 best motivational movies for students Bollywood list that divided in 2 main categories that have some sub categories which is help for you as to direct according to your category.
Academic Success and Personal Growth:
1. Taare Zameen Par (2007):
- IMDb Rating:8.4/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix
Theme: A Dyslexic child who discovers his true potential with the help of a compassionate teacher.
Story: This film is based on an 8-year-old boy named Ishaan Awasthi who struggles with dyslexia( a learning disorder that affects his ability to read and write) and faces much criticism from his surroundings, teachers, and his parents. Despite his creative ideas, no one is ready to accept him due to his academic poor results. But after the change of school, he met with his art teacher(Amir Khan) who understood his talent and him. Then he improved in his life.
Motivation point: Always recognize the right person for your life and wait for them to come into your life.
2. 3 Idiots:
- IMDb Rating:8.4/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix, YouTube Movies.
Theme: The journey of three friends at an engineering college and challenges the conventional education system.
Story: This story is roled on three engineering students at the prestigious Imperial College of Engineering. The lead star casts characters are Farhan Qureshi (R. Madhavan), Raju Rastogi (Sharman Joshi), and Rancho (Aamir Khan). In this film story, Rancho always wants to change the education system and inspire his friends to follow their own passion or not society pressure. Rancho always oppose his college Dean Viru Sahastrabuddhe (Boman Irani). Rancho always tries to change educational system and at last he became a good student of the dean and changed the system.
Motivation point: As like rancho, always follow your own dream and own passion don’t follow society pressure.
3. Super 30 (2019):
- IMDb Rating:7.9/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix, YouTube Movies.
Theme: The true story of mathematician Anand Kumar, who helps underprivileged students prepare for IIT entrance exams.
Story: It is an inspiring biographical movie based on the life of Anand Kumar, a brilliant mathematician from Bihar, India. Casted by Hritik Roshan. This story is like that anand kumar is a teacher who wants to teach the underprivileged students who need actual lesson for IIT entrance exam. Anand Kumar’s 1st batch all 30 students get selected. After good performance of Anand sir’s coaching big institutes tries to down Anand’s classes atlast Anand’s coaching got 30 rank holder.
Motivation point: Don’t be panic in any moment and believe yourself.
Like Post: 10 best life changing movies to watch when you’re depress
4. Chhichhore:
- IMDb Rating:8.3/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube.
Theme: The college life story of friends, who enjoyed thier life with full of memory.
Story: This story leads the character of Anirudh in this film, cast by Sushant Singh Rajput. In this story, Anirudh try to give a lesson to his son who attempted to suicide after fail in the academy. At that time Anirudh told his son how they had enjoyed their life with full of happiness and participated in game competition.
Motivation point: Don’t be disappointed at any type of situation and believe on your work.
5. Hichki(2018):
- IMDb Rating:7.5/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: A lady suffering from Tourette(a neurological disorder that may cause sudden uncontrolled repeated telling of vocal sounds) syndrome turns her weakness into strength as she becomes a teacher.
Story: Hichki is based on the character of Naina Mathur(played by Rani Mukerji) who is a teacher in a boarding school. She has suffered from Tourette that is the minus point of her. Due to her disorder she has faced so much criticism by students and teachers but she has not disappointed make her disorder to strength.
Motivation point: Don’t wait for opportunity create it.
6. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006):
- IMDb Rating:8.0/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, .
Theme: Based on the true story of Chris Gardner’s struggles with homelessness while raising his son.
Story: The Pursuit of Happiness film story is based on a true story. It talks about the hard work of Chris Gardner. He is an excellent homeless seller in his industry. Chris Gardner’s journey from selling printers to save his home, family and to becoming a broker is shown. At the mid point of his struggle life his wife Linda left him with his son Christoper. His journey of losing every time but succeeding in the end is very motivating. Will Smith has played the role of Chris Gardner, Thandiwe Newton has played the role of Linda and Jaden Smith has played the role of Christopher in this film.
Motivation point: Don’t lose hope at mid of a struggle in life because the end time of results waiting for big success.
7. Good Will Hunting (1997):
- IMDb Rating:8.3/10
- Director: Gus Van Sant
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, .
Theme: Based on the true story of Chris Gardner’s struggles with homelessness while raising his son.
Story: “Good Will Hunting” film shows the heartwarming story of Will Hunting, a young man from South Boston who works as a janitor at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He is so intelligent in mathematics, he solved the most difficult math within few times leave by teacher. Then the professor of this college wanted to help in grow but at that, a twist had come Will’s life. he tackles all the problem and make to himself success.
Motivation point: Do your work passionately.
8. Good Will Hunting (1997):
- IMDb Rating:8.3/10
- Director: Peter Weir
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, .
Theme: A teacher uses poetry to inspire his students, showing them the beauty and importance of words and self-expression.
Story: The leading character of “Dead poet society” is the English teacher John Keating played by (Robin Williams). story is based on the new English teacher John Keating’s teaching style at Welton Academy. He always tries to teach students through poetry. he knows the power of a poet, so he has given lessons through poetry to understand the importance of life.
Motivation point: Learn your life, how much valuable.
9. A Beautiful Mind (2001):
- IMDb Rating:8.2/10
- Director: Ron Howard
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, .
Theme: It shows the how how John Nash’s brilliant mind is both his greatest asset and his biggest challenge.
Story: The story is based on the real-life story of a brilliant mathematician John Nash. the central story is start from Nash attending Princeton University, where he struggles to find a unique idea for his doctoral thesis. He eventually developed a groundbreaking theory in economics, earning recognition and a position at MIT. And after marriage with Alicia, then how his life turn and how he handle it. The film highlights the challenges and triumphs of living with mental illness and celebrates the power of love and perseverance. this film nominated Nobel Prize.
Motivation point: Learn to live with your present condition.
10. Freedom Writers(2007):
- IMDb Rating:7.6/10
- Director: Richard LaGravenese
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV.
Theme: The power of education to change lives, leaving a lasting impression on both the characters and the audience.
Story: Erin Gruwell starts teaching freshman and sophomore English classes that are composed of students labeled as “unteachable.” She struggles initially with the students’ lack of respect and motivation, but she gains their trust by introducing them to literature that reflects their own experiences. She gives them journals to write about their lives, encouraging them to express their thoughts and feelings freely.
Through the stories of Anne Frank and the Holocaust, Gruwell connects the students to historical injustices, making them see the similarities in their own lives. The students’ attitudes begin to change as they share their stories and support one another.
Motivation point: Learn to live with obstacles.
11. Stand and Deliver (1988):
- IMDb Rating:7.3/10
- Director: Ramon Menendez
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV.
Theme: A high school teacher’s determination to make his students excellence in math calculus.
Story:The movie is based on the true story of Jaime Escalante, a high school math teacher who transforms his underachieving students into calculus whizzes. Escalante’s determination to teach advanced mathematics at Garfield High School, where the students initially show little interest or ability. Through perseverance and innovative techniques, Escalante inspires his class to excel, culminating in a group of his students passing the Advanced Placement Calculus exam.
Motivation point: Determination and consistency make a man success.
12. Lean on Me (1989):
- IMDb Rating:7.4/10
- Director: John G. Avildsen
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV.
Theme: A high school principle tries to make his students drug free.
Story: This film is based on the true story of Joe Louis Clark, a controversial principal at Eastside High School in Paterson, New Jersey. In the 1980s, Eastside High was plagued by crime, drugs, and poor academic performance. Determined to make a change, Clark employs unconventional and often harsh methods to restore discipline and improve the school’s academic standing. He chains the doors to keep out drug dealers, expels troublemakers, and demands rigorous academic standards. Despite facing opposition from teachers, parents, and the school board, Clark’s tough love approach ultimately transforms the school, proving that with the right leadership, change is possible.
Motivation point: Determination, leadership, and the impact one individual can have on a community.
13. The Great Debaters (2007):
- IMDb Rating:7.5/10
- Director: Denzel Washington
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: A professor inspires his students to form a debate team and compete against Harvard.
Story: The film follows the true story of the Wiley College debate team in the 1930s. Under the guidance of their passionate and determined coach, Melvin B. Tolson, played by Denzel Washington, the team rises to national prominence, challenging the racial segregation and discrimination of the time. The debate team, which includes talented students played by Forest Whitaker, Nate Parker, Jurnee Smollett, and Denzel Whitaker, competes against prestigious institutions, culminating in a historic face-off against Harvard University.
Pursuing Dreams and Overcoming Obstacles:
14. Dangal (2016):
- IMDb Rating:8.4/10
- Director: Nitesh Tiwari
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: Gender equality, perseverance, and the importance of family support.
Story:“Dangal” is a biographical sports drama based on the true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former wrestler who trains his daughters, Geeta and Babita Phogat, to become world-class wrestlers. Despite societal norms and resistance, Mahavir’s determination leads to his daughters achieving great success in wrestling, with Geeta winning India’s first-ever gold medal in women’s wrestling at the Commonwealth Games.
15. Lagaan(2001):
- IMDb Rating:8.1/10
- Director: Ashutosh Gowariker
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: Villagers unite to win a cricket match against British officers to avoid paying taxes.
Story: It is an imaginary film set in 1893 during the British colonial rule in India. lead character played by Amir Khan. The film follows the residents of a small village, Champaner, suffering from drought and being burdened by high taxes. The British officers, led by Captain Russell, imposed an unprecedented tax, doubling the lagaan. The villagers, unable to pay, plead for mercy.
Captain Russell offered the villagers to play and win a cricket match against them, if they win then tax will be free. they have played and won also the match and tax is also free for villagers.
Motivation point: Start your work as soon as possible and unity can do anything.
16. Secret Superstar (2017):
- IMDb Rating:7.8/10
- Director: Advait Chandan
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: A young girl aspires to become a singer despite her conservative father’s objections.
Story: “Secret Superstar” follows the journey of Insia Malik (played by Zaira Wasim), a talented teenage girl from a conservative Muslim family in Vadodara, India. Insia dreams of becoming a singer but faces opposition from her strict father. Encouraged by her supportive mother, she starts uploading her singing videos on YouTube while wearing a niqab to conceal her identity. Her videos go viral, earning her biographical film “Secret Superstar.”
Motivation point: Supporting parents are blessing of god.
17. Mary Kom (2014):
- IMDb Rating:6.8/10
- Director: Omung Kumar
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: Biopic of Indian boxer Mary Kom, showcasing her journey to world championship.
Story: “Mary Kom” is a biographical sports drama film based on the life of Indian boxer Mary Kom, played by Priyanka Chopra. Her journey from a small village in Manipur to becoming a world-renowned boxer. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including societal expectations, lack of resources, and personal struggles, Mary Kom’s unwavering determination and passion for boxing drive her to achieve greatness. The film highlights her grit and perseverance, culminating in her historic victory at the World Amateur Boxing Championships. It also touches upon her personal life, showcasing her balancing act between her family responsibilities and her sports career.
18. Iqbal (2005):
- IMDb Rating:8.1/10
- Director: Nagesh Kukunoor
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: A deaf and mute boy dreams of playing cricket for India.
Story: “Iqbal” is a heartwarming story of a deaf and mute boy named Iqbal (Shreyas Talpade) who dreams of becoming a cricketer and playing for the Indian national team. Despite his rural background and lack of resources, Iqbal’s passion for cricket remains unchanged. With the support of his sister Khadija (Shweta Prasad) and a former cricketer turned drunkard coach Mohit (Naseeruddin Shah), Iqbal battles numerous obstacles, including societal prejudices and financial hardships, to pursue his dream.
- IMDb Rating:8.1/10
- Director: Danny Boyle
- Co-director: Loveleen Tandan
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Theme: The film explores themes of poverty, survival, love, and destiny as Jamal’s life story is intricately tied to his quest for his lost love, Latika.
Story: “Slumdog Millionaire” follows the journey of Jamal Malik, an 18-year-old orphan from the slums of Mumbai, who participates in the Indian version of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”. Despite his lack of formal education, Jamal answers each question correctly, raising suspicions of cheating. The story unfolds through a series of flashbacks, revealing how specific events in Jamal’s life have provided him with the knowledge to answer the quiz questions.
20. Birth of a Legend (2016):
- IMDb Rating:7.5/10
- Director: David Wain
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Story: The movie explores the early life of a legendary figure, depicting their struggles and triumphs as they rise to prominence. The story focuses on their formative years, illustrating the challenges they faced and the pivotal moments that shaped their destiny. The film highlights their journey from obscurity to greatness, showcasing their dedication and resilience. With a compelling narrative and strong performances, the film captures the essence of what made this individual a legend.
21. Rocky (1976):
- IMDb Rating:8.1/10
- Director: John G. Avildsen
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Story: Rocky is a classic sports film. The lead character features Sylvester Stallone as Rocky Balboa, a small-time boxer from Philadelphia. The story follows Rocky, who works as a debt collector for a loan shark and fights in small clubs. His life takes a dramatic turn when he gets a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fight the reigning world heavyweight champion, Apollo Creed. Despite being an underdog with little chance of winning, Rocky trains hard and proves his determination, heart, and spirit in the ring, ultimately earning respect and admiration.
Learning point: Don’t give up in the middle way of any work.
22. The Blind side(2009):
- IMDb Rating:7.6/10
- Director: John Lee Hancock
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Story: This film is based on the true story of Michael Oher, a homeless and traumatized boy who becomes an All-American football player and first-round NFL draft pick, with the help of a caring woman and her family.
Michael Oher, a teenager with a troubled past, is taken in by Leigh Anne Tuohy and her family. Leigh Anne sees potential in Michael and provides him with a supportive home environment. She helps him improve academically and athletically. Despite facing numerous challenges and prejudices, Michael’s talent in football shines through. With the unwavering support of the Tuohy family, he excels in high school football, earning a scholarship to play at the University of Mississippi, and eventually becomes a professional football player in the NFL.
Learning point: Born in poor family not my fault but die as poor, it’s totally our fault.
23. Remember the Titans (2000):
- IMDb Rating:7.8/10
- Director: Boaz Yakin
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Story: This story is based on the true story of the 1971 T.C. Williams High School football team in Alexandria, Virginia. The story is about the 2 racial teams one is white race the other is a black race team. The new head coach Herman Boone (played by Denzel Washington), mixed up the 2 teams in one team, in starting days so many racial prejudice has raised, despite that the coach play them in one team. somedays after they are played as unite team.
Learning point: Teamwork overcomes all the problems.
24. Billy Elliot (2000):
- IMDb Rating:7.7/10
- Director: Stephen Daldry
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Story: This film’s follows the journey of an 11-year-old boy, Billy, who discovers a passion for ballet. Despite his working-class background and his father’s expectations for him to pursue boxing, Billy secretly attends ballet classes.
His talent catches the eye of his dance teacher, Mrs. Wilkinson, who encourages him to audition for the Royal Ballet School. Billy faces resistance from his family, particularly his father, who struggles with the idea of his son dancing. However, after witnessing Billy’s dedication and talent, his father and brother ultimately support him.
Billy’s passion lead him to successfully audition for the Royal Ballet School, opening the door to a brighter future beyond the confines of his struggling hometown.
Learning point: Dedication and hard work are the key points for overcoming problems.
25. October Sky (1999):
- IMDb Rating:7.7/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix.
Story: “October Sky,” directed by Joe Johnston, is a heartwarming film based on a true story. It follows Homer Hickam, a coal miner’s son in 1950s West Virginia, who is inspired by the launch of Sputnik 1 to pursue rocketry against the odds. With the help of his friends and a supportive teacher, Miss Riley, Homer overcomes numerous challenges, including skepticism from his father and the community, to achieve his dream.
Learning point: Follow your own passion unconditionally.
Inspirational Biographies and True Stories:
26. I am Kalam:
- IMDb Rating:8.0/10
- Directed by: Nila Madhab Panda
- Available On: https://youtu.be/gZy4vIGf7MY?si=J85jGdklIKZd_D3A.
Story: The film follows the journey of a young boy named Kalam, who born in a poor family in Rajasthan. Despite his challenging circumstances, Kalam is determined to change his destiny.
The story begins with Kalam’s fascination with former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who inspires him to dream big. Working as a child laborer, Kalam is introduced to the world of education and possibilities by a compassionate teacher. Through hard work and determination, Kalam strives to overcome his socio-economic barriers.
27. Steve Job(2015):
- IMDb Rating:7.2/10
- Directed by: Danny Boyle
- Available On: Apple TV, Netflix.
Story: Story is based on the founder of Apple company Steve Jobs. This film has covered personal life to professional life. How he evicted from his company by his board members after giving a successful product the Macintosh in 1984, the NeXT computer in 1988, and the iMac in 1998.
28. The theory of everything(2014):
- IMDb Rating:7.7/10
- Directed by: James Marsh
- Available On: Apple TV, Netflix.
The Theory of Everything is a biographical drama that chronicles the life of renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. The film explores Hawking’s journey from his early days at Cambridge University, where he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), to his groundbreaking work in theoretical physics.
Despite his debilitating illness, which gradually paralyzed him, Hawking’s remarkable intellect and determination led him to make significant contributions to science, particularly in the areas of black holes and cosmology.
29.Invictus (2009):
- IMDb Rating:7.3/10
- Directed by: Clint Eastwood
- Available On: Apple TV, Netflix.
The Theory of Everything is a biographical movie that shows about the life of physicist Stephen Hawking. The film explores Hawking’s journey from his early days at Cambridge University, where he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), to his groundbreaking work in theoretical physics.
Despite his debilitating illness, which gradually paralyzed him, Hawking’s remarkable intellect and determination led him to make significant contributions to science, particularly in the areas of black holes and cosmology.
30. Life of Pi (2012):
- IMDb Rating:7.7/10
- Available On: Apple TV, Netflix.
Life of Pi” is a visually stunning adventure-drama film directed by Ang Lee. The movie tells the story of a young Indian boy named Pi Patel. After a shipwreck, Pi finds himself stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean with only a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker for company. The film explores Pi’s struggle for survival as he faces challenges from nature, the tiger, and his own fears. Throughout their journey, Pi forms a unique bond with Richard Parker, which helps him endure the harsh conditions.
31. 127 Hours:
- IMDb Rating:7.5/10
- Available On: https://youtu.be/AVWf8ZMQz_g?si=WOqweuRchk0Og5-U
32. Gandhi (1982):
- IMDb Rating:8.0/10
- Available On: Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, .
33. The Imitation Game (2014):
The story of Alan Turing and his work in cracking the Enigma code.
34. The Imitation Game (2014):
The story of Alan Turing and his work in cracking the Enigma code.
Social Issues and Change:
35. Rang De Basanti (2006) :
A group of friends find their calling in life after being inspired by India’s freedom fighters.
36. Swades (2004) :
An NRI returns to India and works towards improving the living conditions in his village.
37. Pad Man (2018):
The story of Arunachalam Muruganantham, who invented low-cost sanitary napkins for rural women.
38. Mardaani (2014):
A policewoman fights against human trafficking.
Pink (2016) – Addresses women’s rights and the concept of consent.
39. Pink (2016):
Addresses women’s rights and the concept of consent.
40.Erin Brockovich (2000):
A single mother who fights against a power company polluting a city’s water supply.
41.Hidden Figures (2016):
The untold story of African-American women mathematicians who worked at NASA during the Space Race.
42.To Kill a Mockingbird (1962):
A lawyer defends a black man accused of raping a white woman in the racially charged South.
43.Schindler's List (1993):
The true story of Oskar Schindler, who saved over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust.
44.The Help (2011):
The story of African-American maids working in white households in the 1960s South.
45. Hotel Rwanda (2004):
The story of a hotel manager who saved lives during the Rwandan genocide.
46. Milk (2008):
The story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California.
47. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
48. Chak De! India (2007):
49. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)
50.Sultan (2016)
Conclusion
This is the list and explaination of 50 best motivational movies for students Bollywood list which is helpful for students.
