20 Best Film Production Companies in India Of All Time

Film production companies in India have garnered a lot of scope in the entertainment industry over the decades. Be it the big-budget feature films that we watch at theatres or on our home TVs, or television soaps and serials, even Ad films for that matter, the companies that are behind the creation of all this are what we call them production houses or simply, film production companies.

A Brief Overview of India-Based Film Production Companies

A film production company is generally involved in the production, creation and distribution of video content for motion pictures, TV serials, web series, music videos, TV commercials, video content for online social media platforms, and several other media-related programmes. In addition, such companies also manage the pre-production, post-production and marketing operations, etc. of feature films and many programmes.

In India, there are over a hundred such production companies and film production companies, some have existed for a very long time, since the beginning of the Indian cinema in the twentieth century. Among these production companies, a lot of Bollywood cinema actors have established their own in-house film production companies. A few such popular actors include Ajay Devgan, Akshay Kumar, Aamir Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Salman Khan, Shahrukh Khan, and several others.

Moving on, this article includes a list of notable film production companies in India that have produced, while some even distribute motion pictures, and made a name for themselves in the entertainment industry.

Top 20 Film Production Companies (Production Houses) of India

Below is a non-exhaustive list of some of the popular film production companies or production houses of India that produce big-screen feature films, small-budget films, regional languages films, TV programmes, and web series for OTT platforms.

1. Red Chillies Entertainment

Red Chillies Entertainment is a well-known Indian film production and distribution company that has made a significant impact on the Bollywood industry. Founded in 2002 by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and his wife Gauri Khan, the company has carved a niche for itself with its diverse and critically acclaimed projects.

With a vision to bring innovative and high-quality content to the audience, Red Chillies Entertainment has produced numerous successful films across various genres. From romantic dramas like “Dilwale” and “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” to thrilling action films like “Don” and “Ra.One,” the production house has showcased its versatility and ability to cater to a wide range of audiences.
Moreover, Red Chillies Entertainment has not limited itself to film production alone. The company has also ventured into the digital space with the web series “Bard of Blood” and the popular Netflix series “Delhi Crime,” proving their adeptness in storytelling across different platforms.

2. UTV Motion Pictures

UTV Motion Pictures, founded in 2004, is a well-known Indian film production company that has left an indelible mark on the Bollywood industry. With its headquarters in Mumbai, UTV Motion Pictures has successfully produced and distributed a diverse range of films across various genres.

Known for its visionary approach, UTV Motion Pictures has been responsible for bringing some of the most compelling and commercially successful films to the big screen. They have collaborated with renowned directors and actors, resulting in critically acclaimed and blockbuster movies. From thought-provoking dramas to high-octane action films, UTV Motion Pictures has consistently delivered quality entertainment to audiences worldwide.

Some of their notable productions include “Rang De Basanti,” “Jodhaa Akbar,” “Barfi!,” “PK,” and “Dangal.” These films not only garnered immense box office success but also received widespread acclaim for their storytelling, performances, and social relevance. UTV Motion Pictures has also ventured into regional cinema, backing exceptional movies in languages like Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

3. Balaji Motion Pictures

Balaji Motion Pictures is a film production and distribution company in India. The company was started in 2001 by the wife and daughter of the popular Bollywood actor Jeetendra and is situated in Mumbai. The former actor is currently the Chairman of the production company.

The first Bollywood film produced under its banner was ‘Kyo Kii… Main Jhuth Nahin Bolta (2001)’, although the film wasn’t a success. A few popular Bollywood films that were produced by Balaji Motion Pictures are ‘Kyaa Kool Hai Hum (2005)’, ‘Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007)’, ‘Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010)’, ‘Ragini MMS (2011)’, ‘Kyaa Super Kool Hai Hum (2012)’, ‘Dream Girl (2019)’, ‘Pagglait (2021)’, and many more. The production company also produces South cinema films, with their first South film in Marathi titled ‘Taryanche Bait (2011)’, which became a success and won awards.

Balaji Motion Pictures is a subsidiary of Balaji Telefilms that mainly produces TV serials. The production company won several awards in different categories, including Filmfare Awards.

4. Bhansali Productions

Bhansali Productions, founded by the renowned Indian filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, is a prominent production house in the Indian film industry. Established in 1999. Bhansali Productions has become synonymous with grandeur, opulence, and artistic brilliance in its cinematic offerings.

Known for its visually stunning films, Bhansali Productions has consistently delivered groundbreaking works that captivate audiences worldwide. The production house has garnered critical acclaim and numerous accolades for its unique storytelling, elaborate sets, and unforgettable musical compositions.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the driving force behind the company, is celebrated for his meticulous attention to detail, his ability to create intricate narratives, and his knack for extracting powerful performances from his actors. Some of the notable films produced by Bhansali Productions include “Devdas,” “Black,” “Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela,” “Bajirao Mastani,” and “Padmaavat.”

5. Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment

Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment (NGE) is a renowned Indian film production company that has made a significant impact on the Bollywood industry. Established by Sajid Nadiadwala, a famous film producer and director, on 13th March 2023. NGE has quickly emerged as a leading player in the Indian film fraternity.

The company is known for producing successful and commercially viable films that have entertained audiences across the globe. With a focus on delivering high-quality content, NGE has consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity and storytelling. Their films often feature a perfect blend of drama, action, romance, and comedy, catering to a wide range of audience preferences.

NGE has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, including A-list actors, directors, and other creative professionals. This has helped them create a diversified portfolio of films that cater to different genres and tastes, ensuring something for everyone.

Their commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognized with numerous accolades and awards. NGE has not only established itself as a commercially successful production house but also as a source of fresh and groundbreaking content.

6. Dharma Productions

Dharma Productions is one of India’s oldest film production and distribution companies situated in Mumbai. The production company was started by Bollywood film producer Yash Johar in 1979, but after his passing, his son Karan Johar, also a film producer now manages the company.

The first Hindi film produced under the banner of Dharma Productions was ‘Dostana (1980)’ which starred Bollywood’s popular actor Amitabh Bachchan alongside notable actors, like Helen, Zeenat Aman, Shatrughan Sinha, Amrish Puri, Prem Chopra and several others. The film became a success and had a Tamil-language remake titled ‘Sattam (1983)’ starring South India’s popular actor Kamal Hassan. A few other Bollywood films produced by Dharma Productions are ‘Agneepath (1990)’, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)’, ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham… (2001)’, ‘Agneepath (2012)’, ‘Student of the Year (2012)’, and many more.

Dharma Productions won several awards for most of their Hindi films.

7. Vinod Chopra Films

Vinod Chopra Films, founded by Indian filmmaker Vinod Chopra, is a well-known production house in the Indian film industry. Known for its exceptional storytelling and quality content, the company has produced numerous successful movies over the years.

Established in 1985, Vinod Chopra Films has been an important contributor to the Indian cinema, delivering memorable films that have left a lasting impact on audiences. Some of their notable works include “Parinda,” “1942: A Love Story,” “Mission Kashmir,” “Munna Bhai M.B.B.S.,” and its sequel “Lage Raho Munna Bhai.” These movies not only garnered critical acclaim but also achieved commercial success, receiving love from both critics and viewers.

Vinod Chopra Films is known for their ability to tackle diverse genres, ranging from crime dramas to romance and social commentaries. Their movies often have a strong emotional core and highlight pertinent social issues, delivering powerful messages to the audience.

8. Eros International

Eros International film production and distribution company was started in 1977 by Arjan Lulla and is based in Mumbai. The company had its name changed several times in the past years before finally settling with the name it’s now called, “Eros”.

The company produced and distributed a lot of Bollywood films, and several films in different Indian languages, as well. A number of films received awards in various categories. A few such notable awards include Star Screen Awards, Stardust Awards, Filmfare Awards, Sony Guild Awards and ETC Bollywood Business Awards.

Eros International produced and released Bollywood films, like ‘Bajirao Mastani (2015)’, ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015)’, ‘Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2015)’, ‘Badlapur (2015)’, and many more.

9. Excel Entertainment

Excel Entertainment is a film production company situated in Mumbai. The production company was started in 1999 by Farhan Akhtar, son of Javed Akhtar, and Ritesh Sidhwani, who is also a film producer.

The production company produced several award-winning Hindi films in the Bollywood industry under its banner. Their first Hindi film was ‘Dil Chahta Hai (2001)’ which became a success and also received the National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards. A few other Hindi films produced by Excel Entertainment are ‘Lakshya (2004)’, ‘Don (2006)’, ‘Rock On!! (2008)’, ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)’, ‘Don 2 (2011)’, ‘Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)’, ‘Gully Boy (2018)’, and many more.

Excel Entertainment production company also produces television and web series under its banner.

10. Fox Star Studios

Fox Star Studios is a film production and distribution company and a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company India. The production company was started in 2008 in a joint venture between the 20th Century Fox and Star India and is situated in Mumbai. The company has partnered with other film production companies both in India and other countries to produce Hindi language films, various South Indian language films as well as a couple of South Asian language films.

The first film produced under the banner of Fox Star Studios and in partnership with another film production company, Phat Phish Motion Pictures was ‘Quick Gun Murugun (2009)’, which was in the English language. A few other films in Indian cinema that were produced and co-produced by Fox Star Studios are ‘My Name is Khan (2010)’, ‘Ekk Deewana Tha (2012)’, ‘Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola (2013)’, ‘Humshakals (2014)’, and many more.

11. Geetha Arts

Geetha Arts is a film production and distribution company situated in Hyderabad, India. The production company was started in 1972 by Telugu film producer and distributor Allu Aravind, who is the son of popular Telugu actor Allu Ramalingaiah. Prior to the production company changing its name, it used to be known by other names, like Geetha Art Productions, Geetha Cine Enterprises and Geetha Creative Arts. The company produces Indian films in different languages, such as Telugu, Kannada, Tamil and Hindi.

The first film produced by Geetha Arts was ‘Bantrotu Bharya (1974)’, a Telugu language film. The production company produced under its banner the first Hindi film ‘Pratibandh (1990)’ which was well-received. A few other Bollywood films produced and co-produced by Geetha Arts are ‘The Gentleman (1994)’, ‘Kunwara (2000)’, ‘Kya Yehi Pyaar Hai (2002)’, and ‘Ghajini (2008)’.

Geetha Arts has distributed more than 300 Indian films in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi and English languages under its subsidiary banner Geetha Film Distributors.

12. Reliance Entertainment

Reliance Entertainment is a prominent Indian entertainment company that operates under the esteemed conglomerate, Reliance Group. Founded in 2005, this Mumbai-based company has made significant contributions to the Indian film and media industry. Reliance Entertainment has established itself as one of the leading film production and distribution companies in India.

The company has produced and distributed numerous successful films across various genres, including Bollywood blockbusters such as “3 Idiots,” “Padmaavat,” and “Bajrangi Bhaijaan.” Their commitment to delivering high-quality and diverse content has helped them gain recognition both domestically and internationally.

Reliance Entertainment has diversified its presence in the entertainment industry by venturing into other areas, such as television production, digital media platforms, and talent management. Through strategic collaborations and partnerships, they have expanded their reach and established a strong foothold in the market.

13. Rajshri Productions

Rajshri Productions is one of India’s oldest film production and distribution companies situated in Mumbai. The company was started by film producer Tarachand Barjatya in 1947. The company has produced and released numerous Bollywood films, many of which have also received awards.

The first Hindi film produced by Rajshri Productions was ‘Aarti (1962)’ and the film was received well. The production house’s next film ‘Dosti (1964)’ also became a success and won several awards. The company continued to make successful Bollywood films since the 1960s and to this day.

A few popular Bollywood blockbuster films produced by Rajshri Productions are ‘Maine Pyar Kiya (1989)’, ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994)’, ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain (1999)’, and many more.

14. Madras Talkies

Madras Talkies is a prominent film production company based in Chennai, India. Founded by the famous filmmaker Mani Ratnam and his wife, Suhasini Maniratnam. Madras Talkies has made a significant contribution to the Indian film industry since its establishment.

Known for their creative storytelling and distinct cinematic vision, Madras Talkies has produced several critically acclaimed and commercially successful movies. Mani Ratnam, the creative force behind the company, is regarded as one of India’s most influential directors, and his films often tackle socially relevant subjects with a unique narrative style.

Over the years, Madras Talkies has collaborated with many leading actors, musicians, and technicians, creating a strong and talented network within the industry. Their films are known for their high production values, engaging scripts, and soulful music, making them highly anticipated releases among audiences.

Some notable films produced by Madras Talkies include “Roja,” “Dil Se,” “Guru,” and “O Kadhal Kanmani.” These films have not only achieved critical acclaim but also garnered immense popularity among both domestic and international audiences.

15. T-Series

T-Series is one of India’s popular film production and music record label company based in Mumbai. The company was started by Gulshan Kumar in 1983. Under its banner, the company produced several Bollywood films in the early 1990s.

The first Bollywood film produced by T-Series was ‘Aashiqui (1990)’. The film was received well. Another well-received Hindi film was ‘Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin (1991)’.

T-Series still continues to produce and distribute Bollywood films and soundtracks under its label.

16. Tips Industries

Tips Industries is a popular film production, distribution and promotion company started in 1975 by the Taurani brothers and based in Mumbai. Tips is also a major music record label company in India. The company began its film production and release operations in the 1990s and its business is still active today.

The company produced dozens of Bollywood films, with their first film being ‘Tadipaar (1993)’. A few other films that were produced by Tips Industries include ‘Coolie No. 1 (1995)’, ‘Haqeeqat (1995)’, ‘Raja Hindustani (1996)’, ‘The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)’, and many more.

Tips Industries has produced many top-grossing Bollywood films in Indian cinema, while also releasing soundtracks for Hindi films and a few more in different regional languages.

17. Viacom18 Motion Pictures

Viacom18 Studios is a film production, marketing and distribution company started in 2006 and is a subsidiary of Viacom18. The first Bollywood film produced by the company was ‘Singh is Kinng (2008)’, followed by ‘London Dreams (2009)’, ‘Tanu Weds Manu (2009)’, ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama (2009)’, ‘Kahaani (2012)’, ‘Gangs of Wasseypur 1 & 2 (2012)’, ‘Mary Kom (2014)’, ‘Drishyam (2015)’, and several others. In addition to films, Viacom 18 Motion Pictures company also produced a web series titled ‘Ray (2021)’, which is aired on Netflix.

The production company has so far produced and released dozens of Bollywood films under its banner, many of which made a success in Indian cinema.

18. Vishesh Films

Vishesh Films is another popular film production company situated in Mumbai. The company was started in 1986 by Vishesh Bhatt and co-founded by his father Mukesh Bhatt, who is an actor-turned-producer in Bollywood cinema.

The company produced and released its first film ‘Kabzaa (1988)’. In the early years, the company’s production of the Hindi film ‘Aashiqui (1990)’ and its soundtracks became a big success. Their other top-grossing Hindi films in the 2000s include ‘Aashiqui 2 (2013)’, ‘Jannat 2 (2012)’, ‘Murder 2 (2011)’, and more.

19. Yash Raj Films

Yash Raj Films is a popular film production and distribution company in India and also one of the largest in the country. The company was started by the notable film-maker Yash Raj Chopra in 1970 and is situated in Mumbai. After the passing of Yash Raj Chopra in 2012, the company’s management was given to his son Aditya Chopra.

The production company released its first Bollywood film ‘Daag: A Poem of Love (1973)’ under its banner. It then went on to release several more Hindi films, including ‘Kabhie Kabhie (1976)’, ‘Kaala Pathar (1979)’, ‘Chandni (1989)’, ‘Darr (1993)’, ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)’, ‘Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)’, ‘Mujhse Dosti Karoge! (2002)’, and many more.

Many Bollywood films which were produced and released by Yash Raj Films became successful and were the top-grossing films of their times.

20. Zee Studios

Zee Studios is a popular Indian film production and distribution company based in Mumbai. The company was started in 2012 as a subsidiary of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited. Prior to producing and/or releasing Bollywood films under the Zee Studios banner, a few films were produced and distributed by Zee Telefilms, Zee TV, Zee Cinema, Zee Motion Pictures and Zee Limelight, respectively.

The first Bollywood film to have been released under the banner of Zee Studios was ‘Jazbaa (2015)’. The film was a success and received awards in different categories. The company produced and released several more Hindi films, including ‘Rustom (2016)’, ‘Dhadak (2018)’, ‘Zero (2018)’, and many more.

Wrapping Up

Cinema is a means of entertainment that is enjoyed by people of all ages and walks of life. The Indian cinema industry has taken the world by storm with its popularity in Bollywood films, and many Indian regional languages films, which are noted for their musical feature films.

India’s film production companies bring to their audience different genres of entertainment feature films, with some even grossing on top charts and winning awards as we’ve already seen a couple of the above.