In Bollywood, playing the villain isn’t just about donning a menacing look or delivering evil laughs—it’s often a bold career move that can redefine an actor’s journey. Let’s dive into how negative roles have transformed the fortunes of some of the industry’s biggest stars.
Shah Rukh Khan: From Anti-Hero to Superstar
When Shah Rukh Khan took on negative roles in films like Baazigar, Darr, and Anjaam, it was a game-changer. At a time when most newcomers aspired to be the hero, SRK’s willingness to play the obsessive lover and anti-hero made him stand out. His chilling “K..k..k..Kiran” from Darr is iconic even today. These roles proved his versatility and helped him avoid being typecast, ultimately paving the way for his rise as Bollywood’s King of Romance.
Priyanka Chopra: Breaking Stereotypes with ‘Aitraaz’
Priyanka Chopra’s bold turn as the manipulative antagonist in Aitraaz shocked audiences and critics alike. Her performance not only earned her awards but also established her as an actress who could take risks and deliver powerful performances. This negative role helped her break away from the standard heroine mold and opened doors to more complex characters, both in Bollywood and Hollywood.
Vinod Khanna & Shatrughan Sinha: Villains Who Became Heroes
Both Vinod Khanna and Shatrughan Sinha began their careers with villainous roles—Khanna in Mann Ka Meet and Sinha in Pyaar Hi Pyaar. Their charismatic screen presence and strong performances quickly caught the attention of filmmakers and audiences, leading to their transition into leading men. They became iconic heroes of their era, proving that starting as a villain can be the perfect launchpad for a legendary career.
Bobby Deol & John Abraham: Comebacks Through Villainy
Bobby Deol’s menacing performance as Abrar in Animal marked a major comeback, earning him critical acclaim and a new fanbase. Similarly, John Abraham’s role as Jim in Pathaan showcased his range and revitalized his career, proving that a powerful negative role can steal the spotlight—even from the hero.
Ranveer singh villain role in padmavati
Padmaavat (2018): Portrayed Alauddin Khilji, a brutal and ambitious sultan, giving a larger-than-life performance.
Acclaim: Ranveer’s performance was touted as electrifying, with critics applauding his range to portray unhinged ambition and threat, turning Khilji into one of the greatest villains in Bollywood.
Sanjay dutt villain role in Kgf and agneepath
Agneepath (2012): Played the ruthless and feared villain Kancha Cheena, infusing raw animalistic energy into the character.
KGF: Chapter 2 (2022): Played the villain Adheera, captivating with his intense performance.
Criticism: Sanjay Dutt’s performance as Kancha Cheena was praised for the level of intensity and capability to rival the iconic original performed by Danny Denzongpa. His performance in KGF: Chapter 2 cemented his versatility, winning over critics and audiences alike.
Conclusion
In today’s Bollywood, the villain is no longer just a side character—they’re often the most memorable part of the film. For many stars, embracing the dark side has not only showcased their acting prowess but also rewritten their destinies in the industry. Sometimes, being bad is the best thing that can happen to an actor’s career!
