12 Bollywood Actors Who Played Historical Mythological Figures In Movies

Bollywood Actors Who Palayed Mythological Figures In Movies: Bollywood has always loved telling stories from India’s rich history and mythology. From brave kings and warriors to powerful gods and demons, these roles need strong performances and grand visuals. Many popular Bollywood actors have taken up the challenge of playing these iconic characters, and their roles have become unforgettable for the audience.

One of the most talked-about upcoming films is Ramayana, where Ranbir Kapoor will be seen as Lord Ram. The film also stars Sai Pallavi as Sita and Yash as the mighty Ravan. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana is expected to be a visual masterpiece that brings the epic story to life in a new and exciting way. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how these stars portray such powerful mythological roles.

Before this, many actors like Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Prabhas, Ajay Devgn, and others have already impressed audiences with their roles as Akbar, Ashoka, Lord Ram, Tanaji, and more. These films not only entertain but also teach us about India’s cultural heritage and legendary tales. In this list, we look at 12 Bollywood actors who beautifully played historical or mythological figures and left a lasting mark in Indian cinema.

1. Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram in Ramayana

Ranbir Kapoor is set to play the role of Lord Ram in the upcoming film Ramayana, expected to be released in 2025. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, the film is a mythological epic based on the Ramayana. Sai Pallavi will be seen as Sita, and Yash will portray Ravan. The film aims to bring Indian mythology to life with grandeur and emotion.

 

 

 

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2. Ranveer Singh as Bajirao and Alauddin Khilji

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: Instagram)

Ranveer Singh played Peshwa Bajirao in Bajirao Mastani (2015), a film about the warrior’s love story with Mastani and his battles for the Maratha Empire. Deepika Padukone played Mastani, and Priyanka Chopra played Kashibai. In Padmaavat (2018), Ranveer portrayed Alauddin Khilji, a ruthless Sultan obsessed with Queen Padmavati, played by Deepika Padukone.

3. Hrithik Roshan as Akbar in Jodhaa Akbar

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: Instagram and Facebook)

Hrithik Roshan portrayed Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 2008 film Jodhaa Akbar. The movie tells the love story between Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhaa. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan played the role of Jodhaa. The film focused on unity, culture, and politics in the 16th century.

4. Prabhas as Lord Ram in Adipurush

Prabhas played Lord Ram (Raghava) in Adipurush, released in 2023. The film retells the epic Ramayana with a modern cinematic touch. Kriti Sanon starred as Sita (Janaki), while Saif Ali Khan played Ravan (Lankesh). Despite mixed reviews, it created a huge buzz for its mythological theme.

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: Instagram)

5. Saif Ali Khan as Ravan in Adipurush

Saif Ali Khan portrayed the demon king Ravan, named Lankesh, in Adipurush (2023). His fierce and dramatic performance brought a modern touch to the ancient character. Kriti Sanon and Prabhas played Sita and Ram respectively, making the film a star-studded mythological epic.

6. Shah Rukh Khan as Emperor Ashoka in Asoka

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: IMDb)

Shah Rukh Khan played the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 2001 film Asoka. The movie follows his transformation from a fierce warrior to a peace-loving ruler. Kareena Kapoor played Kaurwaki, a warrior princess and Ashoka’s love interest. The film blended history with emotion and drama.

7. Shahid Kapoor as Maharawal Ratan Singh in Padmaavat

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: IMDb)

In Padmaavat (2018), Shahid Kapoor portrayed Maharawal Ratan Singh, the noble king of Mewar. His wife, Queen Padmavati, played by Deepika Padukone, became the obsession of Sultan Alauddin Khilji. The film shows themes of pride, sacrifice, and honour in Rajputana culture.

8. Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhatrapati Sambhaji

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: IMDb)

Vicky Kaushal is set to play the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in an upcoming historical film. Though not released yet, the movie will showcase the bravery, leadership, and struggles of Shivaji Maharaj’s son. The lead actress is yet to be officially announced.

9. Sharad Kelkar as Shivaji Maharaj in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: Instagram)

Sharad Kelkar impressed audiences with his powerful portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020). The film highlights the heroic mission of Tanhaji Malusare, with Ajay Devgn in the lead and Kajol as Savitribai Malusare. Sharad’s performance was widely praised.

10. Ajay Devgn as Tanaji Malusare in Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: Instagram)

Ajay Devgn played the brave Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare in Tanhaji (2020). The story revolves around the battle to capture Kondhana Fort from the Mughals. Kajol played his wife, Savitribai. The film was a box office hit and won several National Awards.

11. Amitabh Bachchan as Ashwatthama in Kalki 2898 AD

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: IMDb)

In the sci-fi mythological film Kalki 2898 AD (2024), Amitabh Bachchan plays the role of Ashwatthama, the immortal warrior from the Mahabharata. The film blends futuristic themes with mythology. Deepika Padukone stars as the female lead alongside Prabhas.

12. Dilip Kumar as Shehzada Salim in Mughal-E-Azam

Bollywood actors who played Mythological figures (Image: Instagram)

Dilip Kumar played the iconic role of Prince Salim in Mughal-E-Azam (1960), a timeless love story between Salim and courtesan Anarkali. Madhubala portrayed Anarkali, and the film is known for its grand sets, tragic romance, and historical richness. It remains a classic of Indian cinema.