Be it playing a tough-as-nails cop or portraying a soft-hearted friend or a devoted lover, he has been part of several iconic films.
Bollywood veteran Suniel
Shetty celebrates his 64th birthday on August 11 this year, and on the special occasion, it’s the perfect time to revisit his career that spans over three decades. His filmography through the years has been filled with iconic roles, and unforgettable action sequences. And it has been a delight for the audience to see his gradual evolution into one of Hindi cinema’s most versatile actors.
In the 1990s, Shetty was known for his rugged charm and action-hero persona. In fact, he did manage to carve a space for himself in an era dominated by larger-than-life stars. With his physique and stunts, he not only turned into a massy action hero but also resonated with audiences across genres. Be it playing a tough-as-nails cop or portraying a soft-hearted friend or a devoted lover, he has been part of several iconic films and has delivered some remarkable roles.
Let’s revisit some of his most memorable roles over the years:
1. Balwaan (1992)
Suniel Shetty took everyone by surprise when he appeared on the silver screen with Balwaan, his debut film. It instantly earned him the tag of an action hero, thanks to the intense fight sequences. With a commanding screen presence, he arrived with a band and the film was a commercial hit.
2. Mohra (1994)
The film, one of the biggest blockbusters of the 1990s, starred him alongside Akshay Kumar and Raveena Tandon. His portrayal of Vishal, a man wronged by the system and all set for revenge, added an emotional angle to the otherwise high-octane action drama. Mohra still remains a cult favorite, with the iconic song "Tu Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast” loved across generations.
3. Border (1997)
In J.P. Dutta's war drama Border, Shetty was seen as Captain Bhairon Singh. As a selfless soldier with a tragic sacrifice, he managed to tug at the heartstrings of millions. Border was one of his most powerful performances, and his final scene in the film is often cited as one of the most moving in Indian war cinema.
4. Hera Pheri (2000)
A departure from his usual action roles, Shetty’s performance in Hera Pheri showcased his brilliant comic timing. As Shyam, the straight-laced foil to Akshay Kumar’s Raju, he delivered an act that is still remembered. The film too went on to become one of Indian cinema’s most beloved comedies, and his on-screen chemistry with Kumar and Paresh Rawal, was much loved.
5. Dhadkan (2000)
In Dhadkan, Shetty played the role of Dev, a jilted lover consumed by both heartbreak and anger. With the film, he highlighted his ability to handle emotionally complex characters, and his performance of the romantic anti-hero got added to his credits.
6. Main Hoon Na (2004)
In Farah Khan’s Main Hoon Na, Suniel Shetty was seen as the antagonist Raghavan, a former soldier turned terrorist. With his performance, he brought gravitas to the story, and emerged to be a bankable actor capable of playing both hero and villain.
7. Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007)
In the film, Shetty played ACP Shamsher Khan, a no-nonsense police officer leading an encounter operation. With his restrained yet authoritative performance, he got all the love from fans and admiration from critics.
8. Darbar (2020, Tamil)
Debuting into regional cinema, Shetty was seen as the antagonist in Rajinikanth-starrer Darbar. His act as the ruthless drug lord Hari Chopra showcased his command of the screen even in a different linguistic setting.
Beyond the silver screen, Suniel Shetty is also a producer, and fitness icon. As he celebrates another year today, we can just say Happy Birthday, Anna, and hope for more performances that inspire, and entertain.
