Chennai Express (2013)
DirectorRohit Shetty
StarringShah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Nikitin Dheer, Sathyaraj
Watch onNetflix
Best for: Fans of Shah Rukh Khan and Rohit Shetty's masala entertainers looking for a light-hearted romantic comedy with action.
Where to watch Chennai Express online in India
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Apple TV StoreYouTubeAvailability for India, data by JustWatch. Updated 23 October 2026.
Chennai Express story (no spoilers)
Rahul Mithaiwala (Shah Rukh Khan) sets out to fulfil his grandfather's last wish: immersing the ashes in the holy water at Rameshwaram. His journey takes an unexpected turn when he meets Meenamma (Deepika Padukone), a woman from a unique South Indian family. As they travel together through Tamil Nadu, their initial clash of cultures gradually gives way to romance. But their path is complicated by Tangaballi (Nikitin Dheer) and Meenamma's father Durgeshwara Azhagusundaram (Sathyaraj), leading to an unanticipated drive. The film blends romance, comedy and action, with Rohit Shetty's signature style of over-the-top situations and energetic set pieces. The tone is light-hearted and boisterous, with humour drawn from cultural differences and the odd couple dynamic between Rahul and Meenamma. Their journey becomes a test of love and loyalty, set against the vibrant backdrop of South India. The tagline 'Ready... Steady... Po!' hints at the playful chaos that ensues.
Should you watch Chennai Express?
Watch it for
- Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone share a lively chemistry as Rahul and Meenamma, navigating cultural clashes with humour.
- Director Rohit Shetty brings his trademark action-comedy style, balancing romance with high-energy sequences.
- The genres of romance, comedy and action are blended seamlessly, offering a mix of laughs and thrills.
- At 141 minutes, it's a breezy entertainer that doesn't overstay its welcome.
Skip it if
- You prefer realistic storytelling; the film's over-the-top action and broad comedy may feel exaggerated.
- You're not a fan of loud, slapstick humour and cultural stereotypes played for laughs.
- You want a pure romance without the action distractions; the film leans heavily on comedy and stunts.
Chennai Express cast
Shah Rukh Khanas Rahul Mithaiwala
Deepika Padukoneas Meenamma Lochini Azhagusundaram
Nikitin Dheeras Tangaballi
Sathyarajas Durgeshwara Azhagusundaram
Mukesh Tiwarias Inspector Shamsher
Kamini Kaushalas Rahul's grandmother
Lekh Tandonas Rahul's grandfather
Priyamanias Special Appearance in "1 2 3 4 Get on the Dance Floor" Song
Delhi Ganeshas Villager
Mohan Ramanas Temple priest
Yogi Babuas Sri Lankan SmugglerChennai Express movie details
| Director | Rohit Shetty |
|---|---|
| Writer | Yunus Sajawal, Robin Bhatt |
| Music | Vishal Dadlani, Shekhar Ravjiani |
| Cinematography | Dudley |
| Producer | Ronnie Screwvala, Gauri Khan, Siddharth Roy Kapur, Karim Morani |
| Release date | 8 August 2013 |
| Runtime | 2h 21m (141 minutes) |
| Original language | Hindi |
| Country of origin | India |
| Languages spoken in the film | Hindi, Tamil |
| Certificate (India) | UA |
| Budget | $18.0 million (approx.) |
| Worldwide box office | $62.0 million (approx.) |
Parental guide: is Chennai Express family friendly?
The UA certificate indicates moderate action violence and mild suggestive content, making it suitable for teens and above; this is a general guide. This is a general guide based on genre and certification.
Chennai Express official trailer
Our verdict
Chennai Express is a fun, forgettable ride that plays to its stars' strengths and Rohit Shetty's flair for spectacle. It won't win awards for subtlety, but it delivers exactly what it promises: a loud, colourful entertainer. If you're in the mood for brainless fun, it's worth a watch.
More movies directed by Rohit Shetty
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Sooryavanshi
Simmba
Dilwale
Singham
Golmaal ReturnsMore Shah Rukh Khan movies
Dunki
Jawan
Pathaan
Brahmāstra Part One: Shiva
Laal Singh Chaddha
ZeroFrequently asked questions
Where can I watch Chennai Express online in India?
Chennai Express is available for streaming on Netflix in India. You can also rent or buy it on Apple TV Store and YouTube.
What is the release date of Chennai Express?
Chennai Express was released on 8 August 2013, with a theatrical release in India on 9 August 2013.
Who is in the cast of Chennai Express?
The film stars Shah Rukh Khan as Rahul Mithaiwala, Deepika Padukone as Meenamma Lochini Azhagusundaram, Nikitin Dheer as Tangaballi, Sathyaraj as Durgeshwara Azhagusundaram, and Mukesh Tiwari as Inspector Shamsher.
Who directed Chennai Express?
Chennai Express was directed by Rohit Shetty.
What is the runtime of Chennai Express?
Chennai Express has a runtime of 141 minutes.
Page last updated 23 October 2026. Facts from TMDB; how we write these pages: editorial policy.