From Sidhant Gupta in Freedom at Midnight to Ananya Panday in CTRL; A look at the breakthrough performances of 2024

The year 2024 has been a defining one for Bollywood actors, with a series of powerful performances that showcased new dimensions of talent across a variety of roles. From historical figures to modern-day characters, these actors brought their A-game, leaving an indelible mark on both critics and audiences. As the year draws to a close; Here’s a look at some of the most remarkable performances that stood out.

Breakthrough performances by Bollywood actors in 2024

Pratibha Ranta – Laapataa Ladies

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Pratibha Ranta delivered a powerful performance in Laapataa Ladies, a film centred around the mysterious disappearance of two women in the 1950s. Ranta’s portrayal of one of the missing women was poignant and compelling, as she brought emotional resonance to the character’s journey. Her performance was lauded for its sensitivity and depth, as she skillfully navigated the role of a woman struggling with societal expectations and her own desire for freedom. Ranta’s work in the film marked her as a breakout talent in 2024.

Pratik Gandhi – Madgaon Express

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Pratik Gandhi brought his signature charm and comic timing to the role of Pinku. His character was of a Gujarati guy caught in a hilarious yet heartfelt reunion with his childhood friends. The film Madgaon Express was film helmed by Kunal Kemmu. Pratik’s performance showcased his versatility, proving he’s much more than just the Scam 1992 phenomenon.

Rajkummar Rao – Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank

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Rajkummar Rao’s return in Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank saw him reprising his iconic role as Vicky, whose quirky yet heartfelt character continues to charm audiences. In this supernatural thriller, Rao balanced humour, horror, and pathos, delivering a performance that was both comedic and deeply emotional. His ability to infuse his character with humour while dealing with the supernatural elements of the story was a testament to his acting versatility. Rao’s portrayal kept audiences engaged, making Stree 2 another hit in his ever-expanding portfolio of diverse roles.

Performances that took over the OTT

Ananya Panday – CTRL

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Ananya Panday took a bold leap with CTRL, where she portrayed Nella Awasthi. Her character was of a content creator caught in a digital web of deception. The role was a departure from her previous work, allowing Ananya to showcase her maturity as an actress. Her performance was layered, capturing Nella’s internal conflict as she navigates the challenges of social media fame and personal identity. The film marked a turning point in Ananya’s career. She demonstrated a newfound depth that resonated with both critics and audiences alike.

Sidhant Gupta – Freedom at Midnight

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Sidhant Gupta’s portrayal of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in Freedom at Midnight was nothing short of extraordinary. The actor stepped into the shoes of India’s first Prime Minister with panache, capturing the complexity and visionary leadership of Nehru. Sidhant’s nuanced performance showcased his impressive range, as he perfectly embodied the challenges and aspirations that defined Nehru’s legacy. His ability to bring both power and vulnerability to the character won him critical acclaim, marking a significant step forward in his career.

Junaid Khan – Maharaj

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Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan made an impressive debut in Maharaj. It was a film based on the historic Maharaj Libel Case of 1862. Junaid played the role of Karsandas Mulji, a journalist caught in a fierce battle for truth and justice. His portrayal was marked by its authenticity and emotional depth, showcasing his ability to carry a serious, period drama. Junaid’s strong performance solidified his place as an actor to watch. Critics praised his mature handling of a complex character in a gripping historical setting.

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