7 Hit Punjabi Movies Top May 2026
The Punjabi film industry, affectionately known as Pollywood, has undergone a massive transformation over the last two decades. Once defined by niche regional dramas, it has evolved into a global cinematic powerhouse that blends rich cultural heritage with high-production values and universal storytelling. The following seven films represent the pinnacle of this journey, marking significant milestones in box office success and cultural impact.
The landscape of Punjabi cinema changed forever with the release of Carry On Jatta 3 (2023). As of early 2026, it remains the highest-grossing Punjabi film of all time. This franchise, led by Gippy Grewal and Sonam Bajwa, perfected the "comedy of errors" formula that has become a staple of the industry. Its success wasn’t just about the jokes; it proved that a Punjabi regional film could compete on a global scale, drawing massive audiences in the UK, Canada, and Australia. The film’s ability to pull in over 100 crore INR globally set a new benchmark for what was possible for a regional Indian language film.
While comedy dominates the box office, The Legend of Maula Jatt (2022) stands as a monumental achievement in the broader Punjabi-speaking world. Though produced in Pakistan, its impact on Punjabi culture and cinema globally cannot be overstated. It reimagined the classic folk legend with a grit and visual scale comparable to Hollywood epics like Gladiator. By focusing on intense action and Shakespearean drama rather than the usual lighthearted fare, it expanded the palette of Punjabi cinema and became the first Punjabi-language film to cross the 200 crore mark worldwide, proving that the language’s appeal transcends borders.
Historical dramas have also played a crucial role in the industry’s prestige, most notably with Sajjan Singh Rangroot (2018). Starring Diljit Dosanjh, this film brought to life the often-overlooked contribution of Sikh soldiers in the British Indian Army during World War I. It moved away from the slapstick humor typically associated with the industry to deliver a poignant, visually stunning war epic. This film was instrumental in cementing Diljit Dosanjh’s status as a global icon and showed that Punjabi filmmakers were capable of handling heavy, historically significant subjects with technical finesse.
In the realm of social commentary and period drama, Angrej (2015) remains a beloved masterpiece. Set in the 1940s, it captured the innocence of rural Punjab and the traditional courtship rituals of a bygone era. Amrinder Gill’s performance turned him into a superstar of the "soulful" Punjabi cinema movement. Angrej is credited with reviving the "vintage Punjab" aesthetic, leading to a decade of films that sought to reconnect modern audiences with their ancestral roots through nostalgia and authentic dialogue.
No discussion of hit Punjabi movies is complete without Jatt & Juliet (2012). This film is often cited as the catalyst for the modern "Pollywood" boom. The chemistry between Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa created a blueprint for the romantic comedy genre that dozens of films have since tried to replicate. It was the first film to truly capture the urban, trendy side of Punjab, making it relatable to the diaspora youth. Its success led to sequels and established a polished, vibrant visual style that defined the decade.
Transitioning into more experimental territory, Ardaas (2016), directed by Gippy Grewal, broke the mold by focusing on spirituality and social issues like farmer suicides and drug addiction. Rather than a singular hero-driven plot, it was an anthology of lives interconnected by faith and struggle. Its massive success at the box office was a surprise to many, proving that Punjabi audiences were hungry for meaningful, thought-provoking content alongside their comedies.
Finally, Saunkan Saunkne (2022) demonstrated the enduring power of family-centric comedy. Starring Ammy Virk, Sargun Mehta, and Nimrat Khaira, the film dealt with the quirky and often chaotic dynamics of a household. Its record-breaking opening weekend showed that even after the pandemic, the appetite for high-energy, relatable Punjabi family dramas was stronger than ever.
In conclusion, these seven films represent more than just financial success; they are the pillars of a maturing industry. From the rib-tickling chaos of Carry On Jatta to the historical gravity of Sajjan Singh Rangroot, Punjabi cinema has proven its versatility. As the industry continues to grow, these hits serve as a reminder of the power of regional storytelling to resonate with a global audience, bridging the gap between local traditions and international cinematic standards.
If you'd like to dive deeper into any of these, let me know: Which genre do you prefer (comedy, war, romance)?
The Punjabi film industry (Pollywood) has seen a massive surge in box office numbers recently. As of mid-2026, the following are seven of the most successful and critically acclaimed hit Punjabi movies, ranked primarily by their historical and recent global box office impact. Jatt & Juliet 3
: This blockbuster is currently one of the highest-grossing Indian Punjabi films of all time, earning over ₹107 crore
globally. It brought back the iconic duo of Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa for a mission in Canada that quickly turns into a comedic mess. Carry On Jatta 3
: A massive commercial success, this film grossed approximately ₹102 crore
worldwide. It follows Jass (Gippy Grewal) as he navigates a "madhouse" plan to marry his love, Meet, despite family feuds. The Legend of Maula Jatt
: Holding the record for the highest-grossing Punjabi-language film overall (Pakistani production), it earned a staggering Rs. 396 crore
(approx. US$14 million). It is a gritty action reboot of the classic 1979 cult film. : This historical drama earned roughly ₹74–86 crore 7 hit punjabi movies top
worldwide. Set in 1739, it tells the story of five ordinary men hired to play Sikh rebellions against Nadar Shah's army, who eventually learn the true meaning of the Sikh spirit. Carry On Jatta 2
: For years, this was the benchmark for Punjabi comedy, grossing over ₹57–60 crore
. It remains a fan favorite for its slapstick humor and witty one-liners. Saunkan Saunkne : A major domestic hit in India that grossed over ₹55 crore
. The story revolves around a couple who, unable to conceive, decide the husband should marry the wife’s sister, leading to a hilarious domestic rivalry. Chal Mera Putt 2 (2020/2021) : This film was a significant global hit, grossing over ₹57 crore
. It is highly praised for its heartwarming portrayal of the struggles and friendships of illegal immigrants living in the UK. Quick Comparison Table Movie Title Release Year Global Box Office (Est.) The Legend of Maula Jatt Rs. 396 Crore Jatt & Juliet 3 ₹109 Crore Carry On Jatta 3 ₹102 Crore ₹86 Crore Carry On Jatta 2 ₹60 Crore Saunkan Saunkne ₹58 Crore Chal Mera Putt 2 ₹57 Crore streaming platforms
currently host these movies, or are you looking for a list of upcoming releases for later this year? Saunkan Saunkne
The Punjabi film industry, known as Pollywood, has evolved from regional comedies to global blockbusters. Recent data from Sacnilk and IMDb highlights seven movies that have significantly impacted the industry through box office success and cultural reach. Top 7 Hit Punjabi Movies Jatt & Juliet 3
(2024): The highest-grossing Indian Punjabi film of all time, earning over ₹102 crore worldwide. Carry On Jatta 3
(2023): A massive blockbuster that was the first Indian Punjabi film to cross ₹100 crore globally. The Legend of Maula Jatt
(2022): Technically a Pakistani Punjabi film, it remains the highest-grossing Punjabi movie globally with ₹110+ crore.
(2023): A historical drama that saw record-breaking collections in Canada and Australia, crossing ₹85 crore worldwide. Carry On Jatta 2
(2018): Held the top spot for years, redefining the comedy genre with its ensemble cast and hilarious plot. Saunkan Saunkne
(2022): A major family-centered hit that performed exceptionally well in domestic and overseas markets. Honsla Rakh
(2021): Starring Diljit Dosanjh and Shehnaaz Gill, this film was a critical and commercial success during the post-pandemic recovery. Cultural Impact
These films represent a shift in Punjabi cinema. While comedy remains a staple, movies like and The Legend of Maula Jatt
show a growing appetite for high-budget historical epics. The industry now competes on a global scale, particularly in Canada, the UK, and Australia, where the Punjabi diaspora is substantial. as the perpetually confused lawyer
⭐ Key Takeaway: The "100 Crore Club" is the new benchmark for Punjabi cinema, proving its power in the global film market.
Looking for the biggest Punjabi hits? Based on worldwide box office collections and historical impact as of early 2026, here are 7 top hit Punjabi movies that have defined the industry's success.
Jatt & Juliet 3 (2024): This blockbuster is currently the highest-grossing Indian Punjabi film of all time. Starring Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa, it earned over ₹109 crore worldwide, following two police officers on a complicated mission in London.
Carry on Jatta 3 (2023): This massive hit was the first Indian Punjabi film to enter the ₹100 crore club. It features Gippy Grewal and Sonam Bajwa in a "madhouse" comedy about a man weaving a web of lies to marry his love.
The Legend of Maula Jatt (2022): Historically significant as the first Punjabi film (Pakistani) to cross the ₹100 crore mark, eventually grossing nearly ₹400 crore worldwide. It is a gritty action drama starring Fawad Khan.
Mastaney (2023): A period epic set in 1739 that earned over ₹86 crore. It follows five ordinary men who are hired to impersonate Sikh rebellions but eventually learn the true meaning of the Sikh spirit.
Carry On Jatta 2 (2018): For years, this was the benchmark for Punjabi success, grossing around ₹60 crore. It's a cult-classic comedy about an orphan's hilarious attempts to find a wife so he can move to Canada. Saunkan Saunkne
(2022): A major commercial success that earned approximately ₹58 crore. The comedy revolves around a man who, at his childless wife's insistence, marries her sister, leading to chaotic household rivalry.
Chaar Sahibzaade (2014): A landmark animated film depicting the sacrifices of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh. It remains one of the highest-grossing and most respected films in the industry's history.
Are you interested in where to stream these movies online or looking for upcoming 2026 releases? Highest grossing Punjabi movie box office collection - IMDb
5. Qismat (2018) – The Nostalgic Revival
By 2018, Pollywood was saturated with loud comedies. Qismat, starring Ammy Virk and Sargun Mehta, offered a quiet, poignant antidote. This simple love story about two NRI students in Canada—laced with class differences and unspoken feelings—tapped into raw emotion. The film’s climax, which defied the typical "happily ever after," left audiences in tears. With no major stars (at the time) and a modest budget, Qismat became a sleeper hit, proving that a strong script and melancholic music (the song "Qismat" became an anthem) could outshine star power.
Conclusion: The Future is Even Brighter
From the low-budget laughs of Carry On Jatta to the pan-global spectacle of Shadaa, Punjabi cinema has proven its mettle. With OTT deals now financing bigger budgets and stars like Diljit Dosanjh becoming international icons, the ceiling is broken.
These 7 films are not just movies; they are cultural landmarks. They are the reason a boy in Vancouver and a farmer in Bathinda can share the same joke, cry at the same mother-son scene, and dance to the same wedding song. Pollywood has arrived—and these seven hits are its founding pillars.
The Punjabi film industry (Pollywood) has seen a massive surge in popularity, reaching global milestones like the "100 Crore Club" with high-octane comedies and historical dramas. If you are looking for the best the industry has to offer, these seven "hit" movies are cultural touchstones that every fan should watch. Carry On Jatta 3
This film made history by becoming the first Indian Punjabi film to cross the ₹100 crore mark worldwide. Directed by Smeep Kang, it continues the beloved "madhouse" comedy tradition where a simple lie about family leads to a chaotic, hilarious web of misunderstandings. Starring: Gippy Grewal, Sonam Bajwa, Binnu Dhillon Vibe: Non-stop slapstick comedy and family drama Jatt & Juliet 3
A powerhouse sequel that currently holds the title for the highest-grossing Indian Punjabi movie of all time. It reunites the iconic duo Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa for another mission—this time in London—that quickly spirals into a complicated romantic comedy. Starring: Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa Vibe: Romantic comedy with high-energy chemistry The Legend of Maula Jatt cross-cultural NRI comedies existed
This Pakistani Punjabi epic redefined regional cinema by earning over ₹396 crore globally, making it the highest-grossing Punjabi film of all time. It is a gritty, high-budget retelling of the classic rivalry between Maula Jatt and Noori Natt. Starring: Fawad Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi, Mahira Khan Vibe: Intense action epic and historical drama Carry On Jatta 2
Before the third installment broke records, this sequel set the benchmark for Pollywood blockbusters, earning roughly ₹57.67 crore. It remains a fan favorite for its cult-classic dialogues and "Advocate Dhillon" comedy sequences. Starring: Gippy Grewal, Sonam Bajwa, Gurpreet Ghuggi Vibe: Fast-paced situational comedy
A historical drama that showcased the bravery of the Sikh warriors in 1739 against Nadar Shah's army. It is celebrated for its grand scale and storytelling, grossing over ₹74 crore worldwide. Starring: Tarsem Jassar, Simi Chahal, Gurpreet Ghuggi Vibe: Patriotic historical action Chaar Sahibzaade
This 3D animated film is a landmark in Punjabi cinema, telling the story of the four sons of Guru Gobind Singh. It was a massive commercial hit, especially overseas, and is deeply respected for its emotional and religious significance. Director: Harry Baweja Vibe: Inspirational historical animation
4. Shadaa (2019) – The Marriage Pressure Anthem
Starring: Diljit Dosanjh, Neeru Bajwa Director: Jagdeep Sidhu
Before the pandemic, Shadaa was the talk of the town. The film revolves around a carefree bachelor (Diljit) who is terrified of commitment until he meets a confident, independent woman (Neeru Bajwa).
This film resonated because it reflected the reality of Punjabi households where the question "Shadaa kadon aana?" (When are you getting married?) haunts every young person.
Key Stats:
- Released on Eid, it dominated the box office for weeks.
- The dialogue writing is sharp. Every line became a meme for months.
- The soundtrack, particularly Sira E Hou, was a club anthem.
If you want romance with a heavy dose of cultural realism, Shadaa is a must-watch.
2. Chaar Sahibzaade (2014) – The Animated Epic
While most Punjabi movies rely on music and comedy, Chaar Sahibzaade took a different route. This computer-animated historical drama is based on the sacrifices of the sons of Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
Why it tops the list: It proved that Punjabi cinema could compete on a technical level with Hollywood animation. The film carried deep emotional and religious weight, attracting families and older generations who rarely visit cinemas.
- Box Office Impact: It was one of the highest-grossing Punjabi films of its time and was dubbed in several languages (Hindi, English, Tamil) to reach a wider audience.
- Takeaway: It remains the most respectful and successful religious epic in Pollywood history.
3. Carry On Jatta (2012) – The Comedy King
If Jatt & Juliet defined romance, Carry On Jatta defined chaos. Starring Gippy Grewal, this film is a masterclass in slapstick, mistaken identities, and situational comedy revolving around a man pretending to be a widower to marry the girl of his dreams. The late comedian B.N. Sharma, as the perpetually confused lawyer, became a cult figure. The film’s success proved that pure, nonsensical comedy—free of social messages—could outperform big-budget dramas. Its sequel also broke records, solidifying the Carry On franchise as the gold standard for Punjabi humor.
2. Punjab 1984 (2014) – The Emotional Heavyweight
In a industry known for laughter, Punjab 1984 stands as a sobering masterpiece. Directed by Anurag Singh, this period drama set during the insurgency era is a heart-wrenching story of a mother searching for her estranged son. Diljit Dosanjh delivered a career-defining performance, shedding his comedic skin for raw vulnerability. Unlike typical action films about the era, this was a human drama about forgiveness, loss, and the collateral damage of political turmoil. It remains the highest-grossing Punjabi film of its time and is often cited as the "artistic conscience" of the industry.
5. Jatt & Juliet (2012) – The Perfect Rom-Com
Before Jatt & Juliet, cross-cultural NRI comedies existed, but this one perfected the formula. Starring Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa, this film follows two Punjabi constables who travel to Canada and end up competing for a promotion and falling in love.
Why it tops the list: The comedy is organic, the Canadian landscapes are breathtaking, and the "Jatt" vs. "Juliet" chemistry is electric.
- Franchise Success: The film was so successful that it got two sequels (Jatt & Juliet 2 and Jatt & Juliet 3), both of which performed exceptionally well.
- Global Appeal: It remains the go-to movie for NRIs who feel homesick.
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