Over the years, Bollywood has seen a shift where strong female-led films have dominated the box office, proving that compelling stories about women can be just as powerful and successful as male-centric blockbusters.

On the occasion of Women's Day 2025, let's take a look at five women-centric films that not only received critical acclaim but also shattered records at the box office, proving that "Stree" (woman) can overshadow men in cinema too.

1. Queen (2014) – The Journey of Self-Discovery

• Starring Kangana Ranaut, Queen redefined Bollywood storytelling by focusing on a woman’s empowerment, growth, and self-love.
• The film followed Rani, who goes on a solo honeymoon to Europe after being left at the altar, only to discover her true independence.
• Despite being a low-budget film, Queen became a box office sensation, earning over ₹100 crore worldwide.

Why It Was a Game-Changer?

• It proved that a female-led film without a hero could be a massive success.
• Inspired more solo-women travel stories and self-love narratives in Bollywood.

2. Raazi (2018) – A Spy Thriller with a Powerful Lead

• Starring Alia Bhatt, Raazi was a gripping story of a young Indian spy married into a Pakistani military family during the 1971 war.
• The film showcased the courage and sacrifice of a woman who risked everything for her country.
• With a collection of over ₹200 crore, Raazi became one of Bollywood’s highest-grossing female-led films.

Why It Stood Out?

• It combined patriotism, emotions, and intelligence, proving that women can lead action thrillers too.
• Alia Bhatt’s performance was widely appreciated, making it one of her career-defining roles.

3. Kahaani (2012) – A Thriller That Kept Everyone Hooked

• Starring Vidya Balan, Kahaani was a suspense-packed thriller about a pregnant woman searching for her missing husband in Kolkata.
• With an unpredictable storyline and a shocking climax, the film kept audiences at the edge of their seats.
• Made on a budget of just ₹8 crore, it earned over ₹100 crore, proving that a strong script and performance can beat big-budget action films.

Why It Became a Cult Classic?

• It broke stereotypes by portraying a pregnant woman as the central hero of an intense thriller.
• Vidya Balan’s powerful performance and the unexpected twist made it unforgettable.

4. Stree (2018) – A Horror-Comedy with a Feminist Twist

• While Stree starred Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, it was the female ghost that ruled the story.
• Based on the legend of a spirit that haunts men, the film cleverly blended horror, comedy, and social commentary on gender roles.
• It became one of the biggest hits of 2018, crossing ₹180 crore worldwide.

Why It Was Unique?

• It flipped the usual horror narrative by making men the victims instead of women.
• The strong female character added mystery, making audiences rethink gender dynamics in cinema.

5. Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022) – A Story of Power and Transformation

• Starring Alia Bhatt, this film told the real-life story of Gangubai, a woman who rose from being a victim to becoming a powerful figure in Mumbai’s underworld.
• The film broke several box office records, earning over ₹200 crore globally.
• Alia Bhatt’s performance, dialogue delivery, and screen presence made this one of Bollywood’s most celebrated female-led films.