Archive · 15 Jan 2026
90s Bollywood Stars Shine in New Roles
Bollywood stars from the 1990s, like Akshaye Khanna and Bobby Deol, are making a comeback in big movies.
They are not the main heroes anymore but are playing important roles as bad guys.
This is helping the movies become more exciting and successful.
Younger people are getting to know these actors through streaming services and are enjoying their older films.
These actors are also working with stars from southern India in big movies.
This is a good time for them because they can earn a lot of money and still be important in the movies.
Some female actors from the same time, like Tabu and Madhuri Dixit, are also doing well but their movies are not as successful as the men's.
Bollywood stars from the 1990s are returning in pivotal roles, particularly as antagonists, in recent blockbusters.
Their presence on OTT platforms has familiarized younger viewers with their work, leading to renewed big-screen appearances.
These actors are being cast opposite younger leads to create conflict and drama, with remuneration up to ₹30 crore for big-budget films.
Notable successes include Akshaye Khanna in 'Dhurandhar' and 'Chhaava', Bobby Deol in 'Animal', and Sanjay Dutt in 'KGF-Chapter 2'.
Southern film industries have long paired regional stars with established Hindi faces, and these actors are also finding success with streaming originals.
- Who
- Bollywood stars from the 1990s, including Akshaye Khanna, Bobby Deol, and Sanjay Dutt
- What
- Their return in pivotal roles, particularly as antagonists, in recent blockbusters
- When
- Currently, with notable success in 2023 and ongoing projects
- Where
- In Bollywood and collaborations with southern film industries
- Why
- To leverage their established stature and appeal, catering to changing audience tastes and controlling costs for mid-budget cinema
- Akshaye Khanna's Films
- Dhurandhar (₹863 crore), Chhaava (₹600.10 crore)
- Bobby Deol's Film
- Animal (₹550 crore in 2023)
- Sanjay Dutt's Film
- KGF-Chapter 2 (₹430 crore)
- Remuneration
- Up to ₹30 crore for big-budget films
- OTT Platforms
- Amazon MX Player, Sacred Games, Tandav
- Southern Film Collaborations
- Leo, The Raja Saab, Devara: Part 1, Adipurush, Kanguva, Hari Hara Veera Mallu, Jana Nayagan