Bollywood has a penchant for bringing multifaceted characters to life on the silver screen, and gangsters are no exception. These iconic portrayals not only challenge the actors but also leave a lasting impression on the audience. Here’s a glimpse into some Bollywood actresses who have fearlessly stepped into the shoes of gangsters, making these roles unforgettable.
Richa Chadha – Fukrey:
In the Fukrey trilogy, Richa Chadha assumes the role of Bholi Punjaban, a Delhi gangster with a sharp wit and a fiery attitude. Her portrayal of Bholi Punjaban is a delightful blend of ambition, quirkiness, hostility, and endearing charm. Richa’s fearless approach to this character reflects her own boldness, making it a role to remember. Rumor has it that Bholi Punjaban’s character was inspired by the real-life gangster Sonu Punjaban.
Alia Bhatt – Gangubai Kathiawadi:
Alia Bhatt delivered a tour de force performance in the biographical drama “Gangubai Kathiawadi.” Playing the role of Gangubai, a legendary mafia queen of Kamathipura, Alia brought depth and authenticity to the character. Her portrayal was so compelling that it earned her the National Award for Best Actress. Inspired by Hussain Zaidi’s book “Mafia Queen,” the film showcases Gangubai’s journey from a victim to a powerful force against exploitation.
Kritika Kamra – Bambai Meri Jaan:
Kritika Kamra, known for her versatile acting, takes on the role of a formidable gangster’s sister in the series “Bambai Meri Jaan. She is playing the role of Habiba who is the sister of Gangstar Dara Ismail, ” This adaptation from Hussain Zaidi’s fictional book “Dongri to Dubai” sees Kritika in a never-seen-before avatar. The trailer alone left audiences astonished, and her portrayal promises to be a standout in her career.
Shraddha Kapoor – Haseena Parkar:
Shraddha Kapoor underwent a stunning transformation in “Haseena: The Queen of Mumbai.” Portraying Haseena Parkar, often referred to as the “Godmother of Nagpada” or Aapa, Shraddha embraced a villainous role with gusto. Her gangsta look and performance garnered attention and praise, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
Isha Talwar – Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo:
Isha Talwar surprised audiences with her portrayal of Bijlee, a fierce bahu who runs a drug empire with her mother in the series “Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo.” This unique character challenged Isha, as Bijlee is not only a part of the drug mafia but also represents the LGBTQ community. Her exceptional performance earned her rave reviews.
Radhika Madan – Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo:
In “Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo,” Isha Talwar played the role of a badass bahu in the drug mafia world, but it was Radhika Madan who brought a unique twist to the story. Radhika essayed the character of Shanta, a daughter who actively participates in her mother’s drug empire. Unlike her real-life persona, Radhika’s character Shanta is a stark contrast, which makes her performance even more impressive. In the series, Shanta conducts experiments to enhance the quality of the drugs, adding layers of complexity to her character.
Neha Dhupia – Phas Gaye Re Obama:
In the 2010 film “Phas Gaye Re Obama,” Neha Dhupia took on a role that shattered stereotypes and left a lasting impact. She portrayed Munni Madam, a dreaded gangster with a deep-seated animosity towards men. This unconventional character earned her comparisons to the infamous Gabbar Singh from Indian cinema. Neha’s portrayal of Munni Madam was powerful and fearless. Her character was unapologetically ruthless, and she dominated the screen with her charisma and authority.
