Salute Manoj Bajpayee - it's 20 years since 'Satya'

Who would believe that one of the few skilful actors in the country Manoj Bajpayee struggled long to find his place in Bollywood. Rejected from the National School of Drama, the villager from Bihar went on to bag numerous international and national accolades for his stellar performances. However, the actor got his breakthrough in Bollywood through cult classic 'Satya.' The movie saw him in the role of a Mumbai gangster Bhiku Mhatre, who with the lead character takes the underworld by storm while messing up their personal lives. Viewers began to recognise him with that memorable performance and since then there has been no looking back for the actor.

'Satya' completes 20 years of its release on Wednesday, and we commemorate Manoj Bajpayee's 20 fruitful years in the film industry by giving you a list of his best performances apart from 'Satya'.

Satyagraha (2013)

In this Prakash Jha political-drama Manoj Bajpayee plays a wily young politician who is a threat to democracy. He manages to add humour to his dark character proving his worth as an actor.

Special 26 (2013)

Known for bringing his negative characters to life, Bajpayee plays a dedicated CBI officer, once again proving his versatility as an actor.

Rajneeti (2010)

Another Prakash Jha political drama had Bajpayee in a supporting but crucial role. His dialogue delivery in the movie drew claps and whistles from people in theatres.

Zubeidaa (2001)

The character of melancholic Maharaja Vijayendra Singh of Fatehpur was brought to life by Bajpayee by his minimalistic yet piercing expressions in this Shyam Benegal masterpiece.

Pinjar (2003)

This critically acclaimed film on India-Pakistan partition gave Bajpayee the opportunity to showcase his acting skills as he plays a character that transforms from an unsympathetic kidnapper to a loving husband.

Aligarh (2016)

One of his more recent performances, 'Aligarh' was based on the real life of a gay professor at Aligarh University. While actors in India may shy away from playing a homosexual on-screen, Bajpayee not only took up the role, but moved his audience with an emotional performance.

Gangs of Wasseypur (2012)

Bajpayee's character of Sardar Khan in this cult movie had people across ages impressed and entertained. His dialogues like 'keh ke lunga' have since become everyday phrases among youngsters.

Twenty years may seem too little for an actor as convincing as Manoj Bajpayee to be in the industry but he has used them to full potential. He has four upcoming projects this year and we cannot get any more excited.