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Vijay Varma is one of those rare, multifaceted actors whose shape-shifting talent has left an indelible mark on the industry -one that continues to grow with each performance!
It hasn’t been long since Vijay Varma entered the entertainment industry but he wasted no time in establishing himself as one of the most versatile and talented actors in Indian cinema. His rapid rise in recognition as a dynamic actor is not just due to his chameleon-like ability to transform into complex, multifaceted roles. While some actors tend to settle into familiar characters, Varma is building a legacy as a force who adds depth and meaning to every role, whether in mainstream cinema or the expanding streaming space. He is constantly evolving, challenging himself with each performance whether he’s portraying a villain, a morally conflicted hero or a quiet observer.
As his off-screen persona - marked by his security as a man, respect for women, and openness in male friendships - becomes more visible, it adds an intriguing contrast to the men we love to hate that he plays on screen. Varma’s real-life demeanor only reinforces his talent making it increasingly difficult to hate him on-screen and deny that he's talented. His journey, if anything, is a testament to his ability to fully embody any role, whether it’s a spine-chilling vile character or a morally complex hero that makes you root for him. With every performance, Varma has crafted a legacy of unforgettable characters, proving that he’s not just a rising actor but a bona fide star in the making.
Here are some standout roles that have made Vijay Varma an actor to watch out for!
Darlings and Dahaad - the abusive husband and the chilling serial killer we loved to hate
In Darlings, Varma portrayed Hamza, an abusive husband opposite Alia Bhatt. His unsettling performance brought a manipulative, chilling edge to the character which everyone was drawn to. His layered portrayal made us all hate Hamza for his cruelty yet marvel at Varma’s ability to give depth to such a vile character. In Dahaad, Varma played Anand Swarnakar, a regular man hiding a dark secret. His performance as a suspected serial killer was spine-tingling, with his quiet menace and understated portrayal of evil, making Anand a terrifying, yet deeply fascinating, character.
PINK and SHE – making an impact with minimal screen time
Despite having a small role in PINK and SHE, Varma managed to leave a lasting impression. His portrayal of a sleazy witness in the gripping courtroom drama and an opportunistic hustler in Imtiaz Ali's show, showed that he doesn’t need a lead role to make his mark. Even in limited screen time, he brought depth to his character, proving his ability to shine in any capacity.
Gully Boy and Jaane Jaan - an opportunistic friend and a sharp witted police officer
As Moeen, Murad’s childhood friend in Gully Boy, Varma portrayed a street-smart hustler with a complex moral compass. His performance gave Moeen an authentic, raw edge of a character both flawed and relatable, adding layers to the film’s narrative ensured Moeen’s presence was felt long after the film ended. Varma’s portrayal of a curious police officer Karan in Jaane Jaan stands out for its subtle intensity—he balances the inquisitive nature of a detective with a simmering intensity that drives the suspense of the story adding complexity to the thriller, as he navigates morally grey areas while unraveling the truth.
Kaalkoot – the vulnerable hero we root for
In Kaalkoot, Varma stepped into the role of Ravi Shankar Tripathi, a morally driven cop learning to stand up for justice while grappling with his own vulnerabilities. This performance was a refreshing departure from his antagonistic roles, showing his versatility in embodying a character that everyone could root for.
IC 814 and Mirzapur – standing out in an ensemble
Varma’s rise in the streaming space is further solidified by his standout performances in ensemble-driven shows. In Mirzapur, where the world of crime and power struggles is already teeming with dynamic characters, Varma’s portrayal of Bharat Tyagi injected a fresh layer of intrigue and intensity. His ability to hold his own among an already talented cast made him a key figure in the show’s chaotic narrative. Similarly, in IC 814, Varma showcased his knack for balancing nuance and tension, proving his versatility and reinforcing his reputation as a scene-stealer, even in ensemble settings.
With each new project, Varma continues to evolve as a shape-shifting actor, one who can make you love or hate his characters with equal force. Whether he’s in a leading or supporting role, his ability to leave a lasting impression is what makes him one of the most exciting stars in the industry today.
Happy Birthday to this force and bundle of talent!
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