In India's film industry, the cinematic universes of Marvel and DC, along with spy series like James Bond and Mission: Impossible, are well-known. However, the YRF Spy Universe created by Yash Raj Films currently stands out as the largest and most ambitious cinematic universe in India. This established production company, which previously produced major hits like 3 Idiots, brings together Bollywood's biggest superstars as skilled agents in India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), tackling both internal and external threats.

The films in this series offer an incredibly entertaining experience by skillfully blending exaggerated action scenes with drama and musical elements. The films often take place not only in India but also in various locations around the world, turning into a visual feast that demands to be seen on the big screen. Despite a strong sense of patriotism and many elements that viewers might overlook, it is possible to dive into great entertainment when you resonate with them. Discover how we ranked the films in this series, which consists of seven films so far.

The first film in the series, Ek Tha Tiger, begins with an elite Indian intelligence agent, Tiger (Salman Khan), being sent to Dublin to track a scientist accused of sharing nuclear research with Pakistan. During the mission, Tiger meets Zoya (Katrina Kaif), who initially seems ordinary; however, it turns out that Zoya is an ISI agent with her own secrets. As the two fall in love, they become hunted by both countries.

This film, which kickstarted the YRF Spy Universe, did not initially aim to create a cinematic universe. At a time when Bollywood was not producing modern spy films, it managed to strike an innovative balance between espionage thrills, romance, and realistic action. Salman Khan delivers a charismatic performance, while Katrina Kaif's character Zoya offers much more than just a love interest. Although the action scenes may not be as smooth or flashy as those in later films, they remain exciting due to their character-driven structure. While it stands as a respectable film on its own, it pales in comparison to the entertaining excesses of the subsequent films. The film managed to become Bollywood's highest-grossing film in 2012.