Birthday Love: Randeep Hooda’s five most voracious characters

Randeep Hooda is one big name that has proven time and time again, that the role of the typical hero isn’t always the only one that gets noticed. Taking on exciting opportunities throughout his career, Hooda seldom fails to impress especially when it comes to unconventional characters.

As the actor turns 44, BizAsiaLive.com has picked out five roles of his that had the most amount of edge, vigour and eccentricity.

‘Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai’ (2010)
After the success of ‘Monsoon Wedding’ (2001) Hooda had taken on a fair few roles soon after. However, it was his portrayal of ACP Angel Wilson in ‘Once Upon a Time In Mumbaai’ that made audiences sit up straight on their seats, and have their eyes glued to the screen. Hooda, played the role of the hot-headed, strong-willed police officer, with sheer swag. Hooda’s cool demeanour and bad-boy-doing-good attitude made him a favourite to watch and listen to as he takes his viewers through the story from the eyes of his character’s perspective, who is a joy to watch – but not one you’d want to want to meet in real life maybe. Hooda’s efforts paid off rather well with this one, where he won huge acclaim from audiences and critics alike.

‘Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster’ (2011)
Finding increasing success with darker roles, when Hooda was signed for Tigmanshu Dhulia’s ‘Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster’, nobody anticipated the magic he would create with his performance as Bablu. Showing all of his complexities as a gangster who falls madly in love, Hooda only added to the excitement of the story. His chemistry with Mahie Gill was electrifying and audiences walked away mesmerized by Hooda’s evidently growing talent.

‘Laal Rang’ (2014)
Playing the role of Shankar Singh Malik, a lord of an illegal blood bank trade in ‘Laal Rang’. it was more than a fitting role for Hooda. With the character being from his own home state, Hooda was a wonder to watch as he made his audience like and fear him all at once. Shankar was ruthless, unforgiving and selfish, where the predictability of the character was evident and made Hooda all the more fun to watch

‘Main Aur Charles’ (2015)
Biopics have always been said to be one of the most difficult genres actors could be a part of, so when Hooda was signed to portray the role of real-life serial killer, Charles Sobhraj, there was much riding on the actor’s performance. However, unsurprisingly, he was a hit from his first scene. Here, it was evident Hooda really got into the skin of his character, where at times he even became slightly frightening to watch. Keeping his audiences on their toes and placing himself in their minds as one to be greatly feared, the actor left an uneasy lasting impression even after a viewer had completed watching the film.

‘Extraction’ (2020)
With many big names making the transition from Bollywood to Hollywood, it was only a matter of time before Hooda himself joined that list. And there is no doubt in saying his role as Saju Rav in ‘Extraction’ was the perfect Hollywood debut. Though vouching for the same side as the protagonist, played by Chris Hemsworth, Hooda was as exciting and thrilling as his co-star to watch. Having his audiences wide-eyed and holding on to their seats, this time, the actor made it difficult for them to figure him out, which made him all the more a wonder to watch. His performance was appreciated by his critics, which places hope that there will be plenty more opportunities for Hooda across the pond.

Hooda will always remain a fan favourite, where he has ensured his works speaks for itself. BizAsiaLive.com wishes the brilliant actor a very happy birthday.