Whether he’s playing a menacing villain or a deeply layered protagonist, Vijay Varma brings an authenticity that makes every character feel real. As Bollywood’s most exciting actor celebrates his birthday, here’s a look at ten of his best performances so far
Updated On: 2025-03-29 12:14 PM IST
Compiled by : Shachi Chaturvedi
Moeen Arif – Gully Boy
Moeen wasn’t just a character—he was the heart of Gully Boy’s streets. Vijay infused him with street-smart charm, raw ambition, and hidden depth, making him one of the most memorable parts of the film. His ability to bring out Moeen’s contradictions—both a guide and a cautionary tale—made the character unforgettable.
Hamza Shaikh – Darlings
Vijay’s portrayal of Hamza in Darlings was so disturbingly convincing that audiences couldn’t separate the actor from the character. As an abusive husband who manipulates and torments his wife, he brought out the terrifying reality of domestic violence with chilling precision. It’s a role that proved his ability to make audiences both hate and admire his craft at the same time.
Captain Devi Sharan – IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack
Bringing a real-life hero to the screen is always a challenge, but Vijay handled it with grace and conviction. His portrayal of Captain Devi Sharan, the pilot who remained composed during one of India’s most infamous hijackings, showcased his ability to bring quiet strength and resilience to the screen.
Inspector Karan Anand – Jaane Jaan
Vijay’s portrayal of Inspector Karan Anand in Jaane Jaan was another testament to his ability to play morally complex characters. As a sharp yet flawed cop, he added layers to a role that could have otherwise been one-dimensional, making the film even more gripping.
Vijay Chauhan – Lust Stories 2
In Lust Stories 2, Vijay played a man reconnecting with his ex, exploring themes of intimacy and unresolved emotions. His natural performance made Vijay Chauhan feel authentic and relatable, proving that even in short narratives, he leaves a lasting impact.
Ankit Malhotra – Pink
Though Pink was centered around its powerful message, Vijay’s role as Ankit Malhotra, a friend of the main antagonist, was crucial in the film’s intense narrative. His performance, though brief, added to the chilling realism of the story, proving that even in supporting roles, he leaves a lasting impact.
SI Ravi Shankar Tripathi – Kaalkoot
In Kaalkoot, Vijay played a police officer dealing with societal expectations and internal conflicts. Instead of portraying a typical hero, he brought vulnerability, frustration, and emotional depth to the role, making Ravi one of the most relatable protagonists in his filmography.
Bharat & Shatrughan Tyagi – Mirzapur
Playing twin brothers in Mirzapur was no easy feat, but Vijay made it look effortless. He gave Bharat and Shatrughan distinct personalities, making them feel like two completely different people. His transformation between the two roles was seamless, further cementing his versatility.
Anand Swarnakar – Dahaad
As a serial killer in Dahaad, Vijay took villainy to a whole new level. His eerie calmness, unsettling charm, and ruthless mind games made Anand one of the most terrifying antagonists in recent times. He didn’t just play a killer; he became the darkness lurking in plain sight
Akash Dogra – Murder Mubarak
Vijay’s latest performance as Akash Dogra in Murder Mubarak showcased his ability to play eccentric yet layered characters. With his signature charm and intensity, he added a unique energy to the film, proving yet again that he is one of the most exciting actors in Bollywood.