Between the festive feasts and social gatherings, here’s another way to spend quality time: enjoying a good movie together. Because what’s more festive than a good story, shared on the big screen?
This year, a lineup of exciting Indian films is set to light up theatres right in time for the celebrations. From heart-thumping action to love stories and fantasy epics, here are five movies set to be released this Deepavali weekend to add to your watchlist.
Don’t forget to check out other big-screen titles this month, including the buzzy “Kantara: Chapter 1”!
1. ‘Bison’ (Oct 17)
Directed by Mari Selvaraj, “Bison” (aka “Bison: Kaalamaadan”) brings together raw athletic energy and grounded storytelling – two things the “Karnan” director is best known for.
Starring Dhruv Vikram and Anupama Parameswaran, the film dives into the intense world of the contact sport kabaddi – but beneath the sweat and dust lies a deeper story about identity, ambition, and redemption.
Fans can anticipate another socially conscious sports saga that packs both adrenaline and emotion. For Vikram, “Bison” marks what he’s called a true “reintroduction” of himself as an actor – something fans are eager to see play out on screen.
2. ‘Dude’ (Oct 17)
In the mood for something modern and romantic? This is the film for you.
Directed by Keerthiswaran, “Dude” stars Pradeep Ranganathan, Mamitha Baiju, and Neha Shetty in a multigenerational love story that explores the ties – and tangles – of relationships. Critics are already calling it a charming, emotional ride that balances youthful energy with nostalgia.
The film reportedly reimagines the concept of love and tradition in contemporary times, and Pradeep’s natural comic-romantic flair makes him one of the biggest draws this Deepavali.
3. ‘Diesel’ (Oct 17)
If you’re craving some action to go with your Deepavali snacks, “Diesel” is your ticket. This high-octane thriller by Shanmugam Muthusamy, in his directorial debut, takes audiences into the murky world of the fuel mafia – complete with theft, betrayal, and explosive confrontations.
Gear up for big stunts, moral grey zones, and plenty of style with leads Harish Kalyan and Athulya Ravi.
Notably, acclaimed filmmaker Vetri Maaran lends his voice for narration, giving the project an added spark – perfect for lighting up the festive season.
4. ‘Ek Dewane Ki Deewaniyat’ (Oct 21)
Here’s another one for romantics who enjoy heartbreak added to the mix. Directed by Milap Zaveri, this Hindi-language film stars Harshvardhan Rane and Sonam Bajwa in the lead roles of Vikramaditya and Adaa, respectively.
The title hints at the ups and downs to come: “Ek Dewane Ki Deewaniyat” translates to “The Obsession of a Lover”. If early buzz is any indicator, audiences can expect a film filled with romantic fervour and emotional turmoil.
It might not sound like the most uplifting choice for Deepavali, but misery loves company, and there’s no better company than family and friends getting their hearts wrenched by a dramatic love story!
5. ‘Thamma’ (Oct 21)
What’s the festive season without a bit of supernatural flair? “Thama”, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar, is the latest entry in the Maddock Films Horror-Comedy Universe – the same that brought us “Stree”, “Bhediya”, and “Munjya”.
This time, Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna lead a darkly romantic story that blends mythology, vampirism, and humour. Add Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Paresh Rawal to the mix and you’ve got a star-studded blend of mystery, magic and madness.
Early buzz calls “Thamma” a “bloody love story” that’s equal parts eerie and endearing – perfect for a late-night festive watch after the lamps have dimmed.