S.S. Rajamouli names Munna Bhai MBBS his favourite 21st-century film
- S.S. Rajamouli chose Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. as his favourite film of this century.
- He called the Rajkumar Hirani directorial a great concept and a fantastic film.
- The 2003 hit starring Sanjay Dutt continues to be celebrated for its unique storytelling.
A surprising pick from the RRR director
Ace filmmaker S. S. Rajamouli, known for epic spectacles like Baahubali and RRR, has named a surprisingly intimate comedy-drama as his favourite film of the 21st century. In a recent interaction, the director picked Rajkumar Hirani's 2003 cult classic Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. as the movie that completely captivated him.
Rajamouli did not hold back his admiration. "It's a great concept and a fantastic film that completely captivated me," he said, praising the story that blends humour with a deeply human message.
Why Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. stands out
The film, starring Sanjay Dutt as a lovable goon who enrolls in medical college to fulfil his father's dream, is widely regarded as a game-changer in Hindi cinema. Its unique premise, memorable dialogues and the iconic character of Circuit, played by Arshad Warsi, made it an instant favourite across generations.
Rajamouli's choice underscores the film's enduring appeal. Despite being made on a modest scale compared to his own blockbusters, Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. remains a benchmark for storytelling that balances laughter with emotional depth.
A tribute to Rajkumar Hirani's craft
The Telugu director's comments add to a growing chorus of filmmakers who consider Hirani one of India's finest storytellers. Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. marked Hirani's directorial debut and set the template for his later hits like 3 Idiots and PK.
Rajamouli's praise also highlights how a simple, well-told story can resonate beyond language and regional boundaries. The film's themes of honesty, empathy and the absurdity of rote learning remain relevant even today.
What this means for fans
For fans of both Rajamouli and Hirani, this endorsement is a delightful crossover moment. It also reignites conversations about the film's legacy, which has inspired numerous adaptations and continues to be a staple on television and streaming platforms.
The director's comments come at a time when Indian cinema is increasingly celebrating its diverse storytelling traditions. Rajamouli's choice serves as a reminder that sometimes the most impactful films are those that touch the heart.
As the film industry awaits Rajamouli's next project, his admiration for Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. offers a glimpse into the sensibilities of a filmmaker who values both spectacle and substance.