100 Evergreen South Indian Movies That You Must Watch Before You Die

South Indian cinema has been an integral part of the Indian film industry. The industry has contributed some of the finest movies in the Indian cinema history. From the black and white era to the present digital age, the South Indian film industry has evolved and produced some evergreen movies that continue to enthrall audiences even today.

In this article, we will take a look at the 100 best evergreen South Indian movies of all time. We will cover movies from all four South Indian states- Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

South Indian Cinema's Finest: 100 Timeless Movies That Define the Industry

1. Baahubali: The Beginning (2015)

Baahubali: The Beginning is a Telugu movie directed by S. S. Rajamouli. The movie is an epic action film that revolves around the story of two brothers fighting for control of a kingdom. The movie starred Prabhas and Rana Daggubati in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history and also broke several box office records.

2. Pather Panchali (1955)

Pather Panchali is a Bengali movie directed by Satyajit Ray. The movie is a classic example of Indian cinema and its artistic excellence. The movie is a coming-of-age story that revolves around the life of a young boy named Apu and his family. The movie won several international awards and is considered as one of the best movies in Indian cinema history.

3. Parasakthi (1952)

Parasakthi is a Tamil movie directed by R. Krishnan and S. Panju. The movie is known for its portrayal of social issues and politics. The movie starred Sivaji Ganesan in the lead role and was his debut movie. The movie was a critical and commercial success and is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

4. Maya Bazaar (1957)

Maya Bazaar is a Telugu movie directed by Kadri Venkata Reddy. The movie is a mythological drama that is based on the Mahabharata. The movie was a commercial success and is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

5. Chemmeen (1965)

Chemmeen is a Malayalam movie directed by Ramu Kariat. The movie is a love story that revolves around the life of a fisherman named Pareekutty and a girl named Karuthamma. The movie won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Malayalam and is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

6. Kokila (1977)

Kokila is a Kannada movie directed by Balu Mahendra. The movie is a love story that revolves around the life of a young girl named Kokila and her love interest. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

7. Shankarabharanam (1979)

Shankarabharanam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Vishwanath. The movie is a musical drama that revolves around the life of a classical musician named Sankara Sastry. The movie won several national awards and is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

8. Nayagan (1987)

Nayagan is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a crime drama that revolves around the life of a Mumbai underworld don named Varadarajan Mudaliar. The movie starred Kamal Haasan in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

9. Pushpaka Vimana (1987)

Pushpaka Vimana is a silent Kannada movie directed by Singeetham Srinivasa Rao. The movie is a comedy drama that revolves around the life of a poor man who enters a luxury hotel and takes the place of a millionaire. The movie starred Kamal Haasan in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

10. Manichitrathaz (1993)

Manichitrathazhu is a Malayalam movie directed by Fazil. The movie is a psychological thriller that revolves around the life of a woman named Ganga who is possessed by a spirit. The movie starred Shobana in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

11. Roja (1992)

Roja is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a romantic thriller that revolves around the life of a woman named Roja who tries to find her husband who has been abducted by terrorists. The movie starred Arvind Swami and Madhoo in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

12. Samsara Nouke (1968)

Samsara Nouke is a Kannada movie directed by Pattabhirama Reddy. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a poor farmer and his family. The movie won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Kannada and is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

13. Sagara Sangamam (1983)

Sagara Sangamam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Vishwanath. The movie is a musical drama that revolves around the life of a classical dancer named Balakrishna. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Jayaprada in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

14. Kireedam (1989)

Kireedam is a Malayalam movie directed by Sibi Malayil. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Sethumadhavan who tries to live a peaceful life but is dragged into a life of crime. The movie starred Mohanlal in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

15. Nayakudu (1987)

Nayakudu is a Telugu movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a political drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Varadarajan who becomes a chief minister of a state. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Saranya in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

16. Nayakan (1987)

Nayakan is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a crime drama that revolves around the life of a Mumbai underworld don named Varadarajan Mudaliar. The movie starred Kamal Haasan in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

17. Guna (1991)

Guna is a Tamil movie directed by Santhana Bharathi. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a mentally unstable man named Guna who falls in love with a woman named Valli. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Roshini in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

18. Drishyam (2013)

Drishyam is a Malayalam movie directed by Jeethu Joseph. The movie is a thriller that revolves around the life of a man named Georgekutty who tries to protect his family from the police after they commit a crime. The movie starred Mohanlal and Meena in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie was later remade in several other Indian languages and is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

19. Mouna Ragam (1986)

Mouna Ragam is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a woman named Divya who is forced to marry a man named Chandrakumar. The movie starred Revathi and Mohan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

20. Pushpaka Vimana (1987)

Pushpaka Vimana is a silent Kannada movie directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. The movie is a black comedy that revolves around the life of a poor man who steals a rich man's car and pretends to be a wealthy person. The movie starred Kamal Haasan in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

21. Anand (1971)

Anand is a Hindi movie directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a terminally ill man named Anand who tries to live life to the fullest. The movie starred Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

22. Padosan (1968)

Padosan is a Hindi movie directed by Jyoti Swaroop. The movie is a comedy that revolves around the life of a man named Bhola who falls in love with his neighbor Bindu. The movie starred Sunil Dutt and Saira Banu in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

23. Apur Sansar (1959)

Apur Sansar is a Bengali movie directed by Satyajit Ray. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Apu who struggles to make a living in the city. The movie is the third installment in the Apu Trilogy and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Bengali cinema history.

24. Swayamvaram (1972)

Swayamvaram is a Malayalam movie directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Sarojini who struggles to find her place in society. The movie starred Madhu and Saritha in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

25. Pushpaka Vimana (1987)

Pushpaka Vimana is a Kannada movie directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. The movie is a black comedy that revolves around the life of a poor man who steals a rich man's car and pretends to be a wealthy person. The movie starred Kamal Haasan in the lead role and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

26. Sankarabharanam (1980)

Sankarabharanam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Viswanath. The movie is a musical drama that revolves around the life of a classical singer named Somayajulu. The movie starred J. V. Somayajulu and Manju Bhargavi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

27. Samsara Nouke (1971)

Samsara Nouke is a Kannada movie directed by Pattabhirama Reddy. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Radha who is forced to marry a man she does not love. The movie starred Snehalatha Reddy and Arjun Sarja in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

28. Kuruthipunal (1995)

Kuruthipunal is a Tamil movie directed by P. C. Sreeram. The movie is a thriller that revolves around the life of two police officers who are caught up in a web of corruption. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Arjun in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

29. Manichitrathazhu (1993)

Manichitrathazhu is a Malayalam movie directed by Fazil. The movie is a horror-thriller that revolves around the life of a woman named Ganga who is possessed by a spirit. The movie starred Mohanlal, Shobana, and Suresh Gopi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

30. Sagara Sangamam (1983)

Sagara Sangamam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Viswanath. The movie is a musical drama that revolves around the life of a classical dancer named Balakrishna. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Jaya Prada in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

31. Pyaasa (1957)

Pyaasa is a Hindi movie directed by Guru Dutt. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a struggling poet named Vijay who is trying to find his place in the world. The movie starred Guru Dutt and Waheeda Rehman in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

32. Nayagan (1987)

Nayagan is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a crime-drama that revolves around the life of a gangster named Velu who tries to leave his criminal life behind. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Saranya in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

33. Sindhu Bhairavi (1985)

Sindhu Bhairavi is a Tamil movie directed by K. Balachander. The movie is a musical drama that revolves around the life of a classical singer named Bhairavi. The movie starred Sivakumar, Suhasini, and Sulakshana in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

34. Apoorva Raagangal (1975)

Apoorva Raagangal is a Tamil movie directed by K. Balachander. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Prasanna who falls in love with a man much older than her. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Srividya in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

35. Bhakta Kannappa (1976)

Bhakta Kannappa is a Telugu movie directed by Bapu. The movie is a devotional drama that revolves around the life of a devotee named Kannappa who is devoted to Lord Shiva. The movie starred Krishnam Raju and Vanisri in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

36. Maya Bazaar (1957)

Maya Bazaar is a Telugu movie directed by Kadiri Venkata Reddy. The movie is a fantasy drama that revolves around the life of the Pandavas and the Kauravas. The movie starred NTR, ANR, and Savitri in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

37. Pather Panchali (1955)

Pather Panchali is a Bengali movie directed by Satyajit Ray. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young boy named Apu who is growing up in a rural Bengali village. The movie starred Kanu Banerjee, Karuna Banerjee, and Subir Banerjee in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Indian cinema history.

38. Nayak (1966)

Nayak is a Bengali movie directed by Satyajit Ray. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a famous actor named Arindam Mukherjee who is traveling by train to receive an award. The movie starred Uttam Kumar and Sharmila Tagore in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Bengali cinema history.

39. Nenjil Or Aalayam (1962)

Nenjil Or Aalayam is a Tamil movie directed by C. V. Sridhar. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of three women who are in love with the same man. The movie starred Devika, Kalyan Kumar, and R. Muthuraman in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

40. Roja (1992)

Roja is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a political drama that revolves around the life of a woman named Roja who is married to a cryptologist. The movie starred Arvind Swamy and Madhoo in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

41. Neecha Nagar (1946)

Neecha Nagar is a Hindi movie directed by Chetan Anand. The movie is a social drama that revolves around the life of the people living in a slum. The movie starred Rafiq Anwar, Kamini Kaushal, and Uma Anand in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

42. Sankarabharanam (1980)

Sankarabharanam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Viswanath. The movie is a musical drama that revolves around the life of a classical singer named Sankara Sastry. The movie starred Somayajulu J.V. and Manju Bhargavi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

43. Anand (1971)

Anand is a Hindi movie directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a terminally ill man named Anand. The movie starred Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

44. Chemmeen (1965)

Chemmeen is a Malayalam movie directed by Ramu Kariat. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a fisherman named Pareekutty and a woman named Karuthamma. The movie starred Madhu and Sheela in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

45. Devara Gudi (1975)

Devara Gudi is a Kannada movie directed by H. R. Bhargava. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Veeranna who is forced to become a bandit. The movie starred Vishnuvardhan and Bharathi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

46. Anthuleni Katha (1976)

Anthuleni Katha is a Telugu movie directed by K. Balachander. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Rajani who is trying to make a living in the city. The movie starred Jayaprada and Rajinikanth in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

47. Swathi Muthyam (1986)

Swathi Muthyam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Viswanath. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of an autistic man named Srinivas who is adopted by a widow. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Radhika in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

48. Samskara (1970)

Samskara is a Kannada movie directed by Pattabhirama Reddy. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a Brahmin village and its customs and traditions. The movie starred Girish Karnad and Snehalata Reddy in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

49. Kadhalikka Neramillai (1964)

Kadhalikka Neramillai is a Tamil movie directed by C. V. Sridhar. The movie is a romantic comedy that revolves around the life of two men who are trying to win the hearts of two women. The movie starred T. S. Balaiah and Nagesh in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

50. Jai Bhim (2021)

Jai Bhim is a Marathi movie directed by Sushant Shelar. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young Dalit boy named Bhim who faces discrimination and oppression in his village. The movie starred Sagar Wahi and Pratiksha Lonkar in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Marathi cinema history.

51. Sagara Sangamam (1983)

Sagara Sangamam is a Telugu movie directed by K. Viswanath. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a classical dancer named Balakrishna who is struggling to make a living. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Jayaprada in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

52. Thalapathi (1991)

Thalapathi is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a drama that revolves around the lives of two friends who are on opposite sides of the law. The movie starred Rajinikanth and Mammootty in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

53. Aparichithan (2004)

Aparichithan is a Malayalam movie directed by Sanjeev Sivan. The movie is a thriller that revolves around the life of a young man named Hari who is haunted by a ghost. The movie starred Kunchacko Boban and Nithya Menen in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

54. Aboorva Sagotharargal (1989)

Aboorva Sagotharargal is a Tamil movie directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Raja who is seeking revenge for the murder of his father. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Gouthami in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

55. Swayamvaram (1972)

Swayamvaram is a Malayalam movie directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Sita who is struggling to find a suitable husband. The movie starred Madhu and Sarada in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

56. Maya Bazaar (1957)

Maya Bazaar is a Telugu movie directed by Kadiri Venkata Reddy. The movie is a mythological drama that revolves around the life of the Pandavas and their battle against the Kauravas. The movie starred N. T. Rama Rao, S. V. Ranga Rao, and Savitri in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

57. Kalippattam (1993)

Kalippattam is a Malayalam movie directed by Venu Nagavalli. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a mentally ill man named Kali who is trying to adjust to society. The movie starred Mohanlal and Urvashi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

58. 24 (2016)

24 is a Tamil movie directed by Vikram Kumar. The movie is a science fiction thriller that revolves around the life of a man who invents a time machine. The movie starred Suriya and Samantha Akkineni in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

59. Ghilli (2004)

Ghilli is a Tamil movie directed by Dharani. The movie is an action thriller that revolves around the life of a young man named Velu who gets involved in a dangerous game of hide and seek with a gangster. The movie starred Vijay and Trisha in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

60. Munna (2007)

Munna is a Telugu movie directed by Vamsi Paidipally. The movie is a romantic action drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Munna who falls in love with a girl from a rival gang. The movie starred Prabhas and Ileana D'Cruz in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

61. Kadhal Kottai (1996)

Kadhal Kottai is a Tamil movie directed by Agathiyan. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the lives of two people who fall in love without ever seeing each other. The movie starred Ajith Kumar and Devayani in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

62. Manichitrathazhu (1993)

Manichitrathazhu is a Malayalam movie directed by Fazil. The movie is a horror thriller that revolves around the life of a young woman named Ganga who is possessed by a ghost. The movie starred Mohanlal and Shobana in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

63. Vaaranam Aayiram (2008)

Vaaranam Aayiram is a Tamil movie directed by Gautham Menon. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Surya who tries to cope with the death of his father. The movie starred Suriya and Sameera Reddy in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

64. Mouna Ragam (1986)

Mouna Ragam is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Divya who is forced to marry a man she does not love. The movie starred Karthik and Revathi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

65. Kireedam (1989)

Kireedam is a Malayalam movie directed by Sibi Malayil. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Sethumadhavan who tries to fulfill the dreams of his father. The movie starred Mohanlal and Thilakan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

66. Vikram Vedha (2017)

Vikram Vedha is a Tamil movie directed by Pushkar-Gayathri. The movie is a crime thriller that revolves around the life of a police officer named Vikram who is on the trail of a notorious gangster named Vedha. The movie starred Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

67. Anbe Sivam (2003)

Anbe Sivam is a Tamil movie directed by Sundar C. The movie is a comedy drama that revolves around the life of two men who get stranded in a remote location due to a flight cancellation. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and R. Madhavan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

68. Siva (1989)

Siva is a Telugu movie directed by Ram Gopal Varma. The movie is an action thriller that revolves around the life of a young man named Siva who takes on a local mafia don. The movie starred Nagarjuna and Amala Akkineni in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

69. Thuppakki (2012)

Thuppakki is a Tamil movie directed by AR Murugadoss. The movie is an action thriller that revolves around the life of an army captain named Jagdish who takes on a terrorist group. The movie starred Vijay and Kajal Aggarwal in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

70. Roja (1992)

Roja is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Roja who tries to find her husband who has been kidnapped by terrorists. The movie starred Arvind Swamy and Madhoo in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

71. Anniyan (2005)

Anniyan is a Tamil movie directed by Shankar. The movie is a psychological thriller that revolves around the life of a young man named Ambi who suffers from multiple personality disorder. The movie starred Vikram and Sada in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

72. Muthu (1995)

Muthu is a Tamil movie directed by K. S. Ravikumar. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Muthu who falls in love with a Japanese woman. The movie starred Rajinikanth and Meena in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

73. Drishyam (2013)

Drishyam is a Malayalam movie directed by Jeethu Joseph. The movie is a thriller that revolves around the life of a man named Georgekutty who tries to cover up a crime committed by his family. The movie starred Mohanlal and Meena in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

74. Iruvar (1997)

Iruvar is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a political drama that revolves around the lives of two friends who enter politics. The movie starred Mohanlal and Prakash Raj in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

75. Papanasam (2015)

Papanasam is a Tamil movie directed by Jeethu Joseph. The movie is a thriller that revolves around the life of a man named Suyambulingam who tries to protect his family from the consequences of a crime committed by his daughter. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Gautami in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

76. Kadhal (2004)

Kadhal is a Tamil movie directed by Balaji Sakthivel. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the lives of two young lovers from different socio-economic backgrounds. The movie starred Bharath and Sandhya in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

77. Kanchivaram (2008)

Kanchivaram is a Tamil movie directed by Priyadarshan. The movie is a period drama that revolves around the life of a silk weaver in Kanchipuram who struggles to make a living for his family. The movie starred Prakash Raj and Shreya Reddy in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

78. Aparajito (1956)

Aparajito is a Bengali movie directed by Satyajit Ray. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young boy named Apu who moves to the city with his family. The movie starred Pinaki Sengupta and Smaran Ghosal in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Bengali cinema history.

79. Manichitrathazhu (1993)

Manichitrathazhu is a Malayalam movie directed by Fazil. The movie is a horror thriller that revolves around the life of a young woman named Ganga who suffers from a split personality disorder. The movie starred Shobana, Mohanlal, and Suresh Gopi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

80. Pariyerum Perumal (2018)

Pariyerum Perumal is a Tamil movie directed by Mari Selvaraj. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young dalit boy named Pariyan who struggles to get an education in a casteist society. The movie starred Kathir and Anandhi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

81. Kaala (2018)

Kaala is a Tamil movie directed by Pa. Ranjith. The movie is an action drama that revolves around the life of a slumlord named Kaala who fights against the oppression of the poor by a corrupt politician. The movie starred Rajinikanth and Huma Qureshi in the lead roles and was a commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

82. Parijatham (2006)

Parijatham is a Tamil movie directed by Bhagyaraj. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a young girl named Bhanu who falls in love with a wealthy businessman. The movie starred Prithviraj Sukumaran and Saranya Bhagyaraj in the lead roles and was a commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

83. Prasthanam (2010)

Prasthanam is a Telugu movie directed by Deva Katta. The movie is a political drama that revolves around the life of a politician named Lokanatham who is torn between his political ambitions and his love for his family. The movie starred Sharwanand, Sai Kumar, and Sundeep Kishan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

84. Achuvinte Amma (2005)

Achuvinte Amma is a Malayalam movie directed by Sathyan Anthikad. The movie is a family drama that revolves around the relationship between a mother and her daughter. The movie starred Urvashi and Meera Jasmine in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

85. Yennai Arindhaal (2015)

Yennai Arindhaal is a Tamil movie directed by Gautham Menon. The movie is an action thriller that revolves around the life of a police officer named Sathyadev who is on a mission to catch a ruthless gangster. The movie starred Ajith Kumar, Trisha Krishnan, and Anushka Shetty in the lead roles and was a commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

86. Awaara (1951)

Awaara is a Hindi movie directed by Raj Kapoor. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young boy named Raj who grows up to become a thief. The movie starred Raj Kapoor and Nargis in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

87. Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha (1989)

Oru Vadakkan Veeragatha is a Malayalam movie directed by T. Hariharan. The movie is a period drama that revolves around the life of a warrior named Chandu who becomes a legend in his own time. The movie starred Mammootty and Madhavi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

88. Anbe Sivam (2003)

Anbe Sivam is a Tamil movie directed by Sundar C. The movie is a drama that revolves around the friendship between two men from different backgrounds who meet on a train journey. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Madhavan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

89. Manichithrathazhu (1993)

Manichithrathazhu is a Malayalam movie directed by Fazil. The movie is a horror thriller that revolves around the life of a young woman named Ganga who suffers from a split personality disorder. The movie starred Shobana, Mohanlal, and Suresh Gopi in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best horror movies in Indian cinema history.

90. Roja (1992)

Roja is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Roja who marries a man named Rishi who works for the Indian government. The movie starred Arvind Swamy and Madhoo in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

91. Mathilukal (1990)

Mathilukal is a Malayalam movie directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a political prisoner named Basheer who falls in love with a woman who he has never seen. The movie starred Mammootty and KPAC Lalitha in the lead roles and was a critical success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

92. Pushpaka Vimana (1987)

Pushpaka Vimana is a silent Kannada movie directed by Singeetam Srinivasa Rao. The movie is a comedy that revolves around the life of a man who gets mistaken for a millionaire and gets to experience the luxurious lifestyle. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Amala in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Kannada cinema history.

93. Sindhu Bhairavi (1985)

Sindhu Bhairavi is a Tamil movie directed by K. Balachander. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a classical singer named Bhairavi who falls in love with a young man named Chandru. The movie starred Sivakumar, Suhasini, and Sulakshana in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

94. Swayamvaram (1972)

Swayamvaram is a Malayalam movie directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Vasanthi who refuses to get married and decides to live an independent life. The movie starred Madhu and Sharada in the lead roles and was a critical success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

95. Devaragam (1996)

Devaragam is a Malayalam movie directed by Bharathan. The movie is a romantic drama that revolves around the life of a young woman named Sharada who falls in love with a man named Gopi. The movie starred Arvind Swamy and Sridevi in the lead roles and was a commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Malayalam cinema history.

96. Nayakan (1987)

Nayakan is a Tamil movie directed by Mani Ratnam. The movie is a crime drama that revolves around the life of a gangster named Velu who becomes a powerful figure in Mumbai's underworld. The movie starred Kamal Haasan and Saranya Ponvannan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

97. Oka Oori Katha (1977)

Oka Oori Katha is a Telugu movie directed by Mrinal Sen. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Suryam who dreams of a better life and moves to the city to find work. The movie starred Murali Mohan and Ravi in the lead roles and was a critical success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Telugu cinema history.

98. Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai (1979)

Aarilirunthu Arubathu Varai is a Tamil movie directed by SP Muthuraman. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a young man named Santhanam who struggles to make ends meet for his family. The movie starred Rajinikanth and Sangeetha in the lead roles and was a commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

99. Veedu (1988)

Veedu is a Tamil movie directed by Balu Mahendra. The movie is a drama that revolves around the life of a middle-class family who struggle to find a suitable house to live in. The movie starred Archana and Bhanu Chander in the lead roles and was a critical success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Tamil cinema history.

100. Rang De Basanti (2006)

Rang De Basanti is a Hindi movie directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. The movie is a drama that revolves around the lives of a group of young friends who become involved in the Indian independence movement after playing the roles of freedom fighters in a documentary film. The movie starred Aamir Khan, Siddharth, Kunal Kapoor, Sharman Joshi, Soha Ali Khan, and R. Madhavan in the lead roles and was a critical and commercial success. The movie is considered as one of the best movies in Hindi cinema history.

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Conclusion

South Indian cinema has produced some of the best movies in Indian cinema history. These movies have not only entertained but also inspired and educated the audience. From classic dramas to epic fantasies to heart-warming romances to spine-chilling thrillers, South Indian cinema has something for everyone.

In this article, we have listed 100 evergreen South Indian movies that have stood the test of time and continue to be popular even today. These movies have not only earned critical acclaim but have also been commercial successes. They have been appreciated by audiences not only in South India but also across the country and even globally.

South Indian cinema is a treasure trove of cinematic gems that deserve to be celebrated and cherished. These movies have paved the way for the current generation of filmmakers and actors and will continue to inspire future generations. So, if you haven't watched these movies yet, go ahead and add them to your watchlist. You won't be disappointed.