Beyond the ordinary heroes to root for in these Hindi films, explore

The days of defining a Bollywood hero as macho or angry are long gone. These are a few unorthodox leads from Netflix films that, in our opinion, have changed the usual representation of a Bollywood “hero.”

1. Khel Khel Mein (2024)

Without a doubt, one of Akshay Kumar’s greatest comedies is Khel Khel Mein. His character, Dr. Rishabh Malik, is presented to us at the start of the film and at first seems like a dubious person. As the story progresses, his emotional and paternal side is exposed, despite the initial assumption that he is a rogue and a liar.

2. Tamasha (2015)

Tamasha by Imtiaz Ali has gained new traction on social media. Ved, played by Ranbir Kapoor, battles with his dual personality—what he wants and what he is meant to do—in contrast to the archetypal hero. His quest for self-expression and identity, particularly in the second part of the movie

3. Laapataa Ladies (2023)

Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies introduces one of the most beautifully crafted characters in Sparsh Shrivastava’s Deepak Kumar. He is far from the quintessential hero who fights situations with muscle power. Instead, Deepak is portrayed as an everyday person, not a larger-than-life figure. His resilience and calm demeanor shine through, as he manages to maintain his composure even in the most provoking situations.

4. Talaash (2012)

In the suspenseful mystery-thriller, Aamir Khan played an unconventional Senior Police Inspector. His performance revealed a vulnerable side of a gruff cop, showcasing personality traits rarely seen on TV. He is a sad father who is finding it difficult to deal with the loss of his son beneath his tough veneer.

5. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

Dil Chahta Hai reinvented romance and friendship by examining some of the most realistic situations. Sid, played by Akshaye Khanna, is a calm, grown-up character in the movie whose sensitivity is brought to light by his distinct outlook on relationships and life. When he falls in love with an older woman, Dimple Kapadia’s Tara Jaiswal, his more sensitive and innocent side emerges, giving his character greater depth and complexity.

6. Hasee Toh Phasee (2024)

Nikhil Bhardwaj, played by Sidharth Malhotra, was a flawed character battling his personal issues in one of the most adored romantic comedies. Despite being a love film, it’s refreshing that the movie avoided presenting a romanticized, idealized image of the hero. Beautifully depicted are Nikhil’s emotional openness and vulnerability, which ultimately serve as important factors in the growth of his relationship with Meeta.