The year 2024 has been a spectacular one for South Indian cinema, delivering larger-than-life blockbusters that not only dominated the box office but also set new benchmarks in storytelling and performance. From jaw-dropping action sequences to heartwarming tales of love and resilience, these movies captured the essence of cinema at its finest. Let’s take a cinematic journey through the biggest South Indian blockbusters of 2024 that left an indelible mark on the industry.


Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2


Cast: Allu Arjun, Rashmika Mandanna, Fahadh Faasil
Director: Sukumar
Worldwide Gross: Rs 1646.8 crore (As of December 30, 2024)
Language: Telugu


Synopsis: The sequel to the 2021 mega-hit Pushpa: The Rise, Pushpa: The Rule - Part 2 continues the story of Pushpa Raj as he takes on new adversaries while consolidating his position in the red sandalwood smuggling world. The film's gripping narrative, intense action sequences, and Allu Arjun's powerful performance catapulted it to become the highest-grossing South Indian film of the year.


Kalki 2898 AD


Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Disha Patani
Director: Nag Ashwin
Worldwide Gross: Rs 1052.5 crore
Language: Telugu


Synopsis: A groundbreaking sci-fi epic set in a futuristic world, Kalki 2898 AD combines mythology with science fiction. Prabhas leads the charge as a warrior fighting to restore balance to the universe, while Kamal Haasan and Amitabh Bachchan bring gravitas to the ensemble cast. The film’s visual effects and storytelling pushed the boundaries of Indian cinema.


The Greatest of All Time


Cast: Vijay, Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, Mohan, Jayaram, Ajmal Ameer, Vaibhav, Yogi Babu, Premgi Amaren, Sneha, Laila, Meenakshi Chaudhary
Director: Venkat Prabhu
Worldwide Gross: Rs 460.3 crore
Language: Tamil


Synopsis: Vijay's dual role in this action-packed entertainer showcases his versatility. The Greatest of All Time blends action, comedy, and drama, with spectacular set pieces and energetic dance numbers, reaffirming Vijay's mass appeal.


Devara Part 1


Cast: N. T. Rama Rao Jr., Saif Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, Prakash Raj
Director: Koratala Siva
Worldwide Gross: ₹443.8 crore
Language: Telugu


Synopsis: This action-drama focuses on the coastal regions of Andhra Pradesh, blending elements of mythology and social justice. Jr. NTR delivers a powerhouse performance, while Saif Ali Khan shines as the antagonist. The film's gripping narrative and stunning visuals make it a standout.


Amaran


Cast: Sivakarthikeyan, Sai Pallavi, Rahul Bose, Bhuvan Arora
Director: Rajkumar Periasamy
Worldwide Gross: ₹330 crore
Language: Tamil


Synopsis: Amaran is inspired by the life of Major Mukund Varadarajan, an Indian Army officer awarded the Ashoka Chakra posthumously. Sivakarthikeyan delivers an emotionally charged performance, supported by Sai Pallavi. The patriotic undertones and gripping war sequences resonated strongly with audiences.


Hanu-Man


Cast: Teja Sajja, Amritha Aiyer, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Samuthirakani, Vinay Rai, Vennela Kishore, Raj Deepak Shetty
Director: Prasanth Varma
Worldwide Gross: ₹296.5 crore
Language: Telugu


Synopsis: A superhero origin story rooted in Indian mythology, Hanu-Man blends traditional folklore with modern sensibilities. Teja Sajja's portrayal of a reluctant hero resonated with audiences, and the film's innovative special effects made it a visual delight.


Vettaiyan


Cast: Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Fahadh Faasil, Manju Warrier, Rana Daggubati, Ritika Singh
Director: TJ Gnanavel
Worldwide Gross: ₹255.8 crore
Language: Tamil


Synopsis: Rajinikanth's return to the big screen in Vettaiyan was nothing short of electrifying. Playing a fierce and just law enforcer, Rajinikanth leads an ensemble cast in this action-packed drama. Amitabh Bachchan's special appearance added further star power.


Manjummel Boys


Cast: Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Balu Varghese, Ganapathi S. Poduval, Lal Jr., Deepak Parambol
Director: Chidambaram S. Poduval
Worldwide Gross: ₹241 crore
Language: Malayalam


Synopsis: Manjummel Boys is a heartfelt coming-of-age story set against the picturesque landscapes of Kerala. The film's narrative revolves around friendship, loss, and redemption, with powerful performances by Soubin Shahir and Sreenath Bhasi capturing the essence of youthful camaraderie.