Javed Akhtar Defends Dhurandhar, Expresses Support for Propaganda Films

In a striking reversal of longstanding film industry dynamics, veteran actors once relegated to supporting roles are now commanding center stage in Indian entertainment. This shift marks a profound transformation in audience preferences and industry casting practices, with experienced performers becoming the new face of quality entertainment.

For decades, actors like Rakesh Bedi, Manoj Bajpayee, Sanjay Mishra, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui operated on the fringes of mainstream success. Despite their immense talent, they were rarely considered leading material in commercial productions. Today, these names have become synonymous with credibility, their presence alone signaling a project’s quality.

The streaming revolution has played a pivotal role in this transformation. OTT platforms removed traditional casting constraints, creating space for performers who might not fit conventional “hero” molds but deliver authenticity and depth. Shows like “The Family Man” and “Paatal Lok” redefined audience expectations, elevating actors previously considered too nuanced for mass appeal.

Rakesh Bedi exemplifies this remarkable industry shift. With the massive success of the “Dhurandhar” franchise, Bedi has experienced something most actors never do: a full-blown career renaissance in his seventies. His portrayal of calculating politician Jameel Jamali didn’t just earn critical acclaim—it ignited a pop culture phenomenon, with memes and viral dialogue clips making him a favorite among younger viewers.

Similar trajectories have unfolded for other veteran performers. R Madhavan, once typecast as the sweet “Maddy” character, has delivered standout dramatic performances years after his work in “3 Idiots.” Bobby Deol, previously seen as a fading romantic lead, reinvented himself through darker roles in projects like “Animal” and “Ashram,” establishing a powerful new screen presence.

Vijay Sethupathi has built an impressive career on unconventional choices, becoming one of the most sought-after actors across multiple film industries despite never fitting the conventional leading man image. Meanwhile, Akshaye Khanna’s selective approach and intensity have made him a consistent scene-stealer, often overshadowing nominal leads with minimal screen time.

Pankaj Tripathi’s evolution from bit player to headlining star across films and streaming platforms exemplifies this industry-wide transformation. With projects spanning from the biographical “Main Atal Hoon” to the blockbuster “Stree 2,” Tripathi has become a defining force in modern Indian storytelling, celebrated for his subtle, authentic approach to character work.

Similarly, Gajraj Rao transformed from a background presence to a leading force after the success of “Badhaai Ho.” His ability to portray middle-class characters with humor and emotional depth has made him an “OTT king,” consistently delivering performances that resonate deeply with audiences across demographics.

This industry shift reflects evolving audience psychology. Today’s viewers are more media-literate than ever, easily distinguishing between surface-level acting and genuine craft. Veteran performers bring lived-in authenticity to their roles—a sense of emotional truth that younger actors often haven’t yet developed.

Modern scriptwriting has also evolved beyond traditional hero-versus-villain narratives. Characters now exist in moral gray areas, requiring nuanced emotional shifts that experienced actors are uniquely equipped to deliver. This complexity makes veteran performers indispensable to contemporary storytelling.

Paradoxically, social media has amplified the reach of senior actors. A single powerful scene can explode into a viral moment, introducing veteran performers to younger audiences. This digital amplification has created a new pathway to stardom for actors previously overlooked by mainstream cinema.

The structure of commercial films is evolving accordingly. Rather than relying on a single star, filmmakers are building ensemble casts where veteran actors serve as emotional anchors. This multi-generational approach creates richer cinematic experiences, allowing for dynamic character interactions where performance matters more than billing order.

For audiences increasingly tired of formula-driven storytelling centered on youth and glamour, these veteran performers represent a welcome alternative—proof that in today’s entertainment landscape, experience isn’t a limitation but an advantage.