The Faces of Fear: Bollywood’s Most Haunting Villains
Bollywood has given us heroes to root for, but it’s the villains who often steal the spotlight. From Gabbar Singh’s chilling laugh in Sholay to Mogambo’s iconic “khush hua”, these unforgettable characters shaped the way we see evil on screen. In this gallery, we revisit five of the most iconic Bollywood villains, from the stylish Shaakal to the terrifying Kancha Cheena, and the “Bad Man” himself, Gulshan Grover.
Amjad Khan as Gabbar Singh in Sholay (1975)
Amjad Khan’s Gabbar Singh terrified audiences with his ruthless laugh and chilling dialogues, redefining what it meant to be a Bollywood villain. (Image Credit: x.com/@Oldpeshawar)
Amrish Puri as Mogambo in Mr. India (1987)
“Mogambo khush hua!” — Amrish Puri’s Mogambo became the ultimate symbol of villainy in Bollywood with his commanding presence and unforgettable dialogue. (Image Credit: x.com/@AshishDehati)
Kulbhushan Kharbanda as Shaakal in Shaan (1980)
Shaakal, with his bald head and shark tank lair, brought Bond-style villainy to Bollywood. Kulbhushan Kharbanda made the role unforgettable. (Image Credit: x.com/@Bollywoodirect)
Gulshan Grover as Kesariya Vilayati in Ram Lakhan (1989)
Branded as Bollywood’s “Bad Man,” Gulshan Grover brought a modern edge to villainy with his memorable performance in Ram Lakhan.
Sanjay Dutt as Kancha Cheena in Agneepath (2012)
Sanjay Dutt’s fearsome Kancha Cheena in Agneepath stunned audiences with his terrifying look, deep voice, and ruthless screen presence. (Image Credit: x.com/@cnWZTOkcEK8Ws7q)