Period drama movies pull you into old times with stories full of love, betrayal, and big dreams. On ZEE5, these movies feel close to home, drawing from India’s rich past like Mughal courts or freedom fights. No fancy words here; just fun, heartfelt picks that make history easy and exciting.
With clean plots and amazing stars, they may be perfect for a relaxed night in. ZEE5 packs them in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and greater, so absolutely everyone can join these films. Let’s explore six gemstones you may stream now.
The Bengal Files (Hindi, 2025)
The Bengal Files is one of the latest period drama movies streaming on ZEE5. Directed by Vivek Agnihotri, it stars Mithun Chakraborty as a leader, Anupam Kher as a wise voice, and Pallavi Joshi as a survivor. Ordinary folks face hate and horror amid Partition’s fires. At over three hours, it’s raw and real, urging us to remember buried pains. If you like truth with tears, this one’s a must—now streaming after its big theatre buzz.
The Bengal Files is a tough, emotional look at India’s dark 1946 days. It shows the Great Calcutta Killings and Noakhali riots—waves of hate that tore families apart and pushed toward Partition. A young CBI officer digs into a missing reporter’s case and meets old Bharati Banerjee, whose stories pull back the curtain on buried horrors: mobs, lost homes, and brave stands against evil.
Costao (Hindi, 2025)
Costao is another one of the best period drama movies that is currently available on ZEE5.
Nawazuddin Siddiqui shines as Costao Fernandes, a straight-arrow customs officer chasing crooks through hidden caves. Priya Bapat adds spark as his sharp ally. Full of chases, bribes, and beach sunsets, it’s a tense mix of crime and grit. Director Sejal Shah keeps it fast and fierce—great for fans of real-life heroics in a colourful era.
Phullwanti (Marathi, 2024)
Phullwanti is among the best period drama movies available on ZEE5. This movie steps into 18th-century Pune, which is based on a real tale from the Peshwa era, full of colourful courts and bold spirits. Famous Lavani dancer Phullwanti (Prajakta Mali) dreams big and gets a chance to perform at the grand Shaniwarwada Palace. But strict scholar Venkat Shastri (Gashmeer Mahajani) calls her art sinful and storms out. Hurt but fierce, she challenges him to a contest: she dances against his smarts, all to honour Goddess Saraswati.
Directed by debut star Snehal Tarde, with Prasad Oak and Kshitish Date in key roles, it’s a quick 134-minute watch. Mali shines with fire in her steps, while Mahajani adds depth to the wise guy. Perfect for fans of strong women and cultural vibes—hit play on this period drama movie and feel the rhythm!
Sumathi Valavu (Malayalam, 2024)
Sumathi Valavu also stands out in the list of period drama movies. A shiny village girl named Sumathi has goals of going to school, but old customs and a strict circle of relatives stand in her way. While the freedom struggle grows outside, Sumathi fights her own small battle for books and respect.
Nazriya Nazim plays Sumathi with soft strength and big eyes full of hope. Her parents and grandmother bring the old-world rules to life, while kind teachers and friends give her courage. The film shows lovely backwaters, oil lamps, simple cotton sarees, and temple festivals.
It’s slow, heartfelt, and full of real tears and smiles – no loud action, just deep feelings about growing up, family love, and chasing dreams in tough times. Perfect if you want a warm, meaningful watch.
Sam Bahudur
Sam Bahudur 2023 biopic traces the amazing life of India’s first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw. From brave fights in World War II to leading the 1971 war that created Bangladesh, it shows his sharp wit and big heart. Vicky Kaushal plays the charming “Sam Bahadur,” Sanya Malhotra is his loving wife Silloo, and Fatima Sana Shaikh portrays Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. A must-watch hero story!
Viduthalai Part 2
Viduthalai Part 2 is also considered satisfactory among period drama movies on ZEE5. The story follows riot leader Perumaal Vaathiyaar, a teacher who turns fighter against police cruelty and caste injustice. It suggests his early love with young Mersila (Manju Warrier), his upward thrust, and brutal clashes.
Soori plays the torn cop Kumaresan, while Bhavani Sree, Gautham Menon, and Rajiv Menon add strong roles. Vetrimaaran directs this hard-hitting sequel full of rage, romance, and revolution.
Explore Many Such Period Drama Movies on ZEE5
These six period drama movies prove ZEE5 nails period tales with Indian soul. History is not dry here; it’s alive with colours, songs, and stars we know. Pair one with tea, and you have the best time travel ever. What’s your first pick? Stream on, and let the past light up your screen.
Bio of Author: Gayatri Tiwari is an experienced digital strategist and entertainment writer, bringing 20+ years of content expertise to one of India’s largest OTT platforms. She blends industry insight with a passion for cinema to deliver engaging, trustworthy perspectives on movies, TV shows and web series.
