IMDb’s Most Popular Indian Directors of 2025 highlight a dynamic blend of celebrated veterans and bold new voices, each adding their own spark to Indian cinema. From heartfelt romantic musicals to intense, gritty thrillers, these filmmakers have won over audiences across the globe with their distinctive storytelling styles. With blockbuster successes, critical praise, and passionate fanbases, these directors continue to shape the future of both the big and small screens.
Mohit Suri: The King of Musical Romance
Mohit Suri, born in 1981, has become synonymous with romantic musicals and intense dramas. Nephew of director Mahesh Bhatt and cousin of actor Emraan Hashmi, Mohit’s journey in cinema began as an assistant director before he made his directorial debut with “Kalyug” in 2005. Over the years, he has crafted hits like “Aashiqui 2,” “Murder 2,” “Hamari Adhuri Kahani,” and the recent blockbuster “Saiyaara” (2025), which became one of the highest-grossing Indian films of the year.
Mohit’s films are known for their strong emotional arcs, memorable music, and star-studded casts. His ability to balance commercial appeal with heartfelt storytelling has earned him a massive fan base and consistent box office success. “Saiyaara” not only topped the charts but also solidified Mohit’s reputation as the go-to director for romantic dramas in Bollywood.
Aryan Khan: The New Voice of Satire
At just 28, Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, has made a splash with his directorial debut, “The Ba***ds of Bollywood,” a satirical Netflix series that pokes fun at nepotism and the inner workings of the film industry. The show, produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, was praised for its bold approach and fresh perspective, quickly gaining popularity among young viewers.
Aryan’s entry into directing marks a new chapter for Bollywood, proving that talent and innovative storytelling can come from any background. His work on “The Ba***ds of Bollywood” has set the stage for more original content from debutant directors and earned him a spot among IMDb’s most popular Indian directors of 2025.
Lokesh Kanagaraj: The Pan-India Phenomenon
Lokesh Kanagaraj has redefined Tamil cinema with his gripping action thrillers. Starting with the short film “Acham Thavir,” Lokesh made his feature debut with “Maanagaram” in 2017. His breakout came with “Kaithi” (2019), followed by the massive hits “Master” (2021) and “Vikram” (2022), all of which showcased his flair for intense storytelling and high-octane action.
Lokesh’s films have not only dominated the Tamil box office but have also found a pan-India audience, making him one of the most sought-after directors in the country. His ability to blend mass appeal with innovative narrative techniques continues to set new benchmarks in Indian cinema.
Anurag Kashyap: The Maverick Storyteller
Anurag Kashyap is known for his gritty, realistic storytelling and fearless approach to cinema. With landmark films like “Black Friday,” “Gangs of Wasseypur,” “Dev.D,” and “Udaan,” Anurag has carved a niche for himself as a director unafraid to tackle complex social issues and controversial themes.
His recent projects, including the ZEE5 film “Saali Mohabbat” and the bilingual “Dacoit: A Love Story,” continue to push boundaries. Anurag’s influence on Indian independent cinema is undeniable, and his work remains a favorite among critics and cinephiles.
Prithviraj Sukumaran: The Versatile Visionary
Prithviraj Sukumaran is a multi-hyphenate talent—actor, producer, and director. His directorial ventures, such as “Lucifer” (2019) and “L2: Empuraan” (2025), have been major successes, blending political drama with high-stakes action. Prithviraj’s films often explore themes of power, corruption, and justice, resonating with audiences across languages.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail and strong performances, Prithviraj continues to expand his creative horizons, making him one of the most respected directors in Indian cinema.
Why These Directors Matter
The IMDb Most Popular Indian Directors of 2025 represent the diversity and dynamism of Indian cinema. Whether it’s Mohit Suri’s emotional dramas, Aryan Khan’s bold satire, Lokesh Kanagaraj’s action-packed thrillers, Anurag Kashyap’s fearless storytelling, or Prithviraj Sukumaran’s political sagas, each director brings something unique to the table.
Their films not only entertain but also inspire, challenge, and reflect the changing face of India. For movie lovers and aspiring filmmakers, these directors are shining examples of creativity, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Stay tuned to their upcoming projects—they’re sure to shape the future of Indian cinema for years to come.
