Once in a while, an actor manages to stand out with his outstanding and serious performances. However, not all actors get their due in the cutthroat world of Bollywood. Despite incredible performances, some actors remain underrated. That’s what happened with actors like Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Jaideep Ahlawat, who only rose to prominence after their performances in Wasseypur Gangs and Paatal Lok. These actors deserve more time in the spotlight.
We have compiled a list of some of the most important actors in mainstream Hindi films, who we hope will eventually get the recognition they deserve.
Sanjay Mishra
Did you know there was a time when this phenomenal actor had to leave Bollywood to work in a dhaba for a salary of Rs 150? He’s been in the industry for over 25 years and it’s a shame he isn’t as celebrated for his stellar performances on shows like Office Officeand movies like Masaan, Dhamaal, all the best, again Golmaaland Kaamyaab among others.
Sharat Saxena
Sharat Saxena is known for his incredible physique at the age of 71. He is known for playing supporting characters in movies like Baghban, Fanaa, Ghulam, Soldier, Krrish, Bajrangi Bhaijaanetc
Vinay Pathak
Since Khosla Ka Ghosla for Dasvidaniya and Bheja Fry, Vinay Pathak managed to win the hearts of the audience with every role he played. He has a fair share of fame and acclaim in theater and film, but we think he deserves more.
Adil Hussein
Adil Hussain’s filmography is quite interesting and spans genres. He worked in movies like The Xpose, and Agent Vinodand in Life of Pi, Looteraand The reluctant fundamentalist. However, you will remember him most for playing the character of Satish Godbole in Gauri Shinde’s English vinglish.
Saurabh Shukla
An example of a brilliant actor often overshadowed by a hero, Saurabh Shukla has a career spanning over three decades. He gave memorable performances – Kallu Mama in SatyaTom Uncle in MohabbateinPandurang in Nayak: the real hero and Judge Tripathi in Jolly LLB. He is an actor who does serious things and comedy with the same conviction.
Kay Kay Menon
With his impeccable dialogue delivery, magnetic screen presence, and versatility, Kay Kay Menon has been consistent in showing us that he is one of the best actors we have. Since Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, Black Friday, Life in a… Metro and Gulaal for Haider, Ghazi attackand Special operations, Kay Kay Menon gave one brilliant performance after another. It deserves more recognition in mainstream cinema.
jimmy shergil
Since maachis, Mohabbatein, and Mother Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai, for A Wednesday, Tanu marries Manu, and Happy Bag Jayegi, Jimmy Shergill stands out in every role. He’s a quintessential actor, and it’s time he got more opportunities.
Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyoub
Do we even need to explain why he deserves more fame? He is a brilliant actor and no matter the size of the role, Zeeshan Ayyub makes his presence felt. Murari in RaanjhanaChintu in Tanu marries Manu comes back, Sadiq in RaeesNishad in Section 15and Manish in A simple murder are some of his notable performances.
Vijay Raaz
Another actor who changes the course of a film with his performance is Vijay Raaz. Comedy or serious roles, Raaz is an actor who does everything convincingly. With impeccable performances in films like Gangubai Kathiawadi, Monsoon Wedding, Run, Deewane Huye Pagal, Welcome, Dhamaaland belly of delhiwe never tire of him.
(Featured image credits: Instagram)