Manoj Bajpayee is a name that is synonymous with excellent acting. He is known to deliver incredible performances, one after the other. From his early days in Bollywood to his current reign over OTT, Bajpayee’s career is a masterclass in versatility and adaptability. Today, let’s take a look at his journey evolving from a Bollywood star to an OTT sensation.
The Early Days of Manoj Bajpayee
Manoj Bajpayee began his journey in the late 1990s. His breakout role came in Satya(1998), where he played the role of Bhiku Mhatre. This role was a game-changer for him. It also earned him his first National Film Award. This raw and compelling performance set him apart from other actors. It also established him as a powerful actor in Indian cinema.
Breakthrough Performances
Over the next decade, Manoj Bajpayee’s movies showcased his ability to portray deep and complex characters. In Shool(1999), he played an honest police officer fighting corruption. He also delivered a compelling performance in Pinjar(2003), a period drama.
His role in Raajneeti(2010) further solidified his position as a versatile actor. However, it was his portrayal of Professor Siras in Aligarh(2015) that truly highlighted his range. The film is based on a true story. It dealt with the struggles of a gay professor facing societal shunning. Bajpayee’s sensitive performance in this movie won him both critical acclaim and several awards.
Manoj Bajpayee’s Transition to OTT
With the rise of digital platforms, Manoj Bajpayee seamlessly transitioned into the OTT space as well. His first successful venture was The Family Man(2019), a drama web series. In this, he played Srikant Tiwari, a middle-class man juggling his duties as an undercover agent and a family man. The show’s gripping narrative and Bajpayee’s stellar performance made it an instant hit. This turned him into a household name in the OTT world as well. In fact, Manoj Bajpayee also won the Filmfare OTT Award for Best Actor for his work in this series. Ever since then, he hasn’t looked back. With OTT releases like Silence… Can You Hear It?, Dial 100, Gulmohar, and others, have now become an OTT sensation.
Recent and Notable Manoj Bajpayee Movies
Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai(2023)
Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai is a gripping courtroom drama. It features Bajpayee playing a determined lawyer taking on a powerful godman accused of assault. His performance brought depth and intensity to the character. This ZEE5 Original showcases his ability to carry a film on his shoulders.
Silence 2: The Night Owl Bar Shootout (2024)
In Silence 2, Bajpayee returns as ACP Avinash Verma. This ZEE5 Original revolves around a mass shootout at a bar. Bajpayee’s character in the film delves into the investigation, uncovering layers of conspiracy and corruption. His portrayal of a gritty, determined cop adds a new layer of intensity to the thriller genre.
Bhaiyya Ji(2024)
Bhaiyya Ji is a milestone in Bajpayee’s career, marking his 100th film. Set in Bihar, the movie follows a retired criminal seeking justice for his brother’s death. This role allowed Bajpayee to delve deep into his roots. He has delivered a performance that is both intense and heartfelt. The film’s storyline and his powerful acting have made it a must-watch film that you can now stream on ZEE5 Global.
Killer Soup(2024)
Killer Soup is a crime thriller web series starring Manoj Bajpayee. In it, he plays dual roles, showcasing his versatility yet again. The series received praise for its engaging plot and Bajpayee’s compelling performances.
Manoj Bajpayee’s journey from a Bollywood star to an OTT sensation is incredible. His dedication to his craft and ability to evolve with the times is impeccable. The latest movies of Manoj Bajpayee including Bhaiyya Ji, Silence 2, and others, continue to showcase his exceptional talent. Each role he takes on redefines excellence. And that’s what makes him one of the most respected actors in Indian cinema today.