Why it deserves a mention: While not an Indian Pollywood film, this Pakistani Punjabi-language epic shattered every imaginable record in 2022.
with a worldwide gross of $13.8 million. It reimagines the classic rivalry between Maula Jatt (Fawad Khan) and Noori Natt (Hamza Ali Abbasi) with pathbreaking visual effects Chhalla Mud Ke Nahi Aaya
The year proved that Punjabi cinema is no longer restricted to formulaic slapstick comedy. Filmmakers actively experimented with diverse genres while maintaining regional authenticity. Furthermore, global theatrical distributions expanded heavily into countries like Canada, Australia, the UK, and the USA, allowing these projects to achieve unprecedented international revenue. 7 Hit Movies Punjabi 2022
While loud comedies remained profitable, audiences actively rewarded historical epics ( Chhalla Mud Ke Nahi Aaya ) and intense thrillers ( Aaja Mexico Challiye ).
The film stands out for its realistic portrayal of heartbreak, nostalgia, and mature love. Gurnam Bhullar underwent a significant physical transformation to play both the lean schoolboy and the older, grieving version of his character. Enhanced by Jaani’s soulful soundtrack and B Praak’s vocals, Lekh became a modern classic for romance lovers. 3. Babe Bhangra Paunde Ne October 5, 2022 Cast: Diljit Dosanjh, Sargun Mehta, Sohail Ahmed Director: Amarjit Singh Saron Why it deserves a mention: While not an
Set in rural Punjab during the 1960s, the movie tracks two sisters blessed with beautiful singing voices who are forced to hide their talent from a deeply patriarchal society. The film is celebrated for its authentic historical texture, its incredible folk-centric soundtrack inspired by legendary singers Surinder Kaur and Prakash Kaur, and its triumphant message. 7. Kokka : Neeru Bajwa, Gurnam Bhullar Director : Santosh Subhash Thite & Bhanu Thakur
praised the chemistry of the lead trio as a "breath of fresh air" for the industry. The Legend of Maula Jatt The film stands out for its realistic portrayal
Ammy Virk delivers a career-defining, raw performance. By highlighting the scams, deadly jungles, and human cost of illegal migration, the film sparked vital table conversations while pulling massive crowds to the theatres. 5. Lekh Gurnam Bhullar, Tania Director: Manvir Brar Genre: Romantic Drama
A mother faces immense social and personal struggles to raise her sons and protect her land.
Though produced in Pakistan, made history as the first Punjabi-language film to cross the ₹100 crore milestone, eventually grossing over ₹400 crore worldwide. A gritty reimagining of the 1979 cult classic Maula Jat , the film follows the legendary rivalry between a fierce warrior and a brutal gang leader.
Directed by Amrinder Gill, the film provided a poignant look at the hardships of early 20th-century Punjabi immigrants in Canada. Its high production value and emotional depth resonated deeply with the Punjabi diaspora. 3. Babe Bhangra Paunde Ne Genre: Comedy / Drama Key Cast: Diljit Dosanjh, Sargun Mehta