Gunjan Saxena, Bawaal, Ulajh & more: 8 films that redefines Janhvi Kapoor's stardom across diverse genres

In a film industry where star power often overshadows talent, Janhvi Kapoor stands out as an actor who has blended both. Her journey from a fresh-faced, doe-eyed debutante in “Dhadak” to a versatile performer tackling varied roles across genres is a success story of evolving craft.

Kapoor’s entry into Bollywood was marked by the release of “Dhadak” in 2018, a romantic drama that, while commercially successful, received mixed critical reception. Despite this, her potential was evident. The real turning point came with her portrayal of Gunjan Saxena in “Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl” (2020). Here, she embodied the first female Indian Air Force pilot in combat with a blend of vulnerability and steely resolve, earning widespread acclaim for her performance. Critics praised her for bringing depth and authenticity to the role, proving that she was more than just a star kid riding on her family’s legacy.

She is a restless actor - never content with one genre, one prototype. Shattering expectations, Kapoor ventured into horror with Zoya Akhtar’s segment in the anthology film “Ghost Stories” (2020) which showcased her ability to handle intense, atmospheric storytelling. Her performance as a young nurse facing supernatural threats was both convincing and eerie, marking her successful foray into a genre rarely explored by mainstream actors.

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In “Roohi” (2021), Kapoor tackled the challenge of a horror-comedy, playing a dual role that tested her range and comedic timing. Her performance was noted for its energy and effort. This was followed by “Good Luck Jerry” (2022), a dark comedy where Kapoor’s portrayal of a naive girl drawn into the drug trade was lauded by critics as it reflected her ability to navigate complex narratives with ease.

The survival thriller “Mili” (2022) pushed Kapoor to new heights, both physically and emotionally. As the titular character trapped in a freezer, Kapoor’s performance was lauded as her most compelling to date. Critics and audiences alike admired her for carrying the film’s intense, claustrophobic atmosphere on her shoulders, showcasing her resilience and commitment to the craft.

“Bawaal” (2023), a romantic drama set against the backdrop of World War II, allowed Kapoor to explore her own emotional depths - how deep can she go as an actor. It was a gamble that paid off as her mature portrayal stood out.

She followed it up with “Mr. & Mrs. Mahi” (2024), Kapoor played a cricketer, a role that required rigorous physical training and a deep understanding of the sport. Her dedication to embodying the character was evident and appreciated and with the release on Netflix, the film is back in conversation. She now stars in “ _Ulajh_ ” (2024), a political thriller that further cemented her status as a versatile actor and a gutsy star who will put her might behind stories that are unheard and untapped. Playing an Indian Foreign Service officer accused of dissent, Kapoor handled the emotionally charged role with aplomb, garnering critical praise for her growth and depth as an actor.

Kapoor’s upcoming slate of films promises to continue her trajectory of taking on diverse and challenging roles. She is set to star in “Devara” alongside N.T. Rama Rao Jr., an action film anticipated to be a significant milestone in her career. Additionally, she will be seen opposite Varun Dhawan in a Shashank Khaitan film and alongside Ram Charan in another highly anticipated project.

Kapoor’s journey in Bollywood is a story of talent, hard work, mostly, fearless choices. In an industry often criticized for its reliance on star power, she has distinguished herself by consistently opting for roles that challenge her. She has proven that she is not just another star kid but an actor with genuine talent and dedication.

As she continues to explore new genres and take on more complex characters, Kapoor is poised to leave a lasting impact with each outing. Her ability to balance commercial success with critical acclaim, all while pushing her boundaries, makes her one of the most promising actors of her generation. With a string of successful films behind her and an exciting lineup ahead, Kapoor is undoubtedly a star who is here to stay, redefining what it means to be a leading lady in Bollywood.