Cinema has a magical way of immersing us in unfamiliar worlds, giving us a chance to live a thousand lives through the lens of a character. Among the many identities portrayed on the big screen, one that has often stood out with immense dignity, warmth, and flair is that of the Sikh character. Grounded in values, exuding heart, and teeming with emotional depth, the character of Sardars in Bollywood has been nothing less than special.
Years ago, a number of actors took on Sikh roles with sincerity and faith. Wearing the turban isn’t merely a costume option; it carries a cultural gravity, a dash of charisma, and an emotional authenticity. And when done well, these roles resonate deeply with the audience, frequently becoming some of the most indelible memories of Indian film.
Let’s have a look at seven such performances where Bollywood stars really brought Sikh characters to life with grace, charm, and authenticity:
Ajay Devgn in Son of Sardaar
Ajay Devgn’s Jassi act in Son of Sardaar provided people with a healthy dose of comedy, mayhem, and charm. With his offbeat timing and larger-than-life persona, Jassi became an instant fan favorite. The film’s iconic line “Paaji, kadhi hass vi liya karo” still brings a smile to many faces. His portrayal wasn’t just about laughs; it showcased the innocence and emotional depth often associated with Sikh characters in pop culture. And now, fans are eagerly waiting for Son of Sardaar 2, which hits theaters on 25th July 2025, bringing back the madness all over again.
Ranbir Kapoor in Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year
Ranbir Kapoor shocked everyone with his subdued yet impactful performance as Harpreet Singh Bedi, a humble, unpretentious man struggling to find his niche in the business world. The turbaned incarnation of Ranbir wasn’t all about showy dialogues and over-the-top scenes; rather, it was his low-key defiance and natural suave that made Rocket Singh unforgettable. He captured the essence of a down-to-earth Sardar, grounded, diligent, and full of quiet self-assurance.
Akshay Kumar in Singh Is Kinng
If ever there was a character that infused comedy, action, and heart with complete Bollywood panache, it was Akshay Kumar’s Happy Singh. Boisterous, affectionate, and always genuinely well-meaning, Happy’s escapades in Singh Is Kinng rendered it an enormous crowd-pleaser. Akshay infused the role with his signature energy and warmth, and the result was a Sardar who was funny, fearless, and fiercely loyal. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a celebration of spirit.
Saif Ali Khan in Love Aaj Kal
Saif Ali Khan’s portrayal of Veer Singh in Love Aaj Kal brought old-school romance back with a turbaned twist. Unlike the modern-day characters he usually plays, Veer was soft-spoken, emotionally layered, and deeply romantic. His simple yet intense expressions of love took audiences on a nostalgic journey. The contrast between his younger and older self added more weight to the character, reminding viewers of the timeless nature of true love.
Farhan Akhtar in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
Portraying the legendary Milkha Singh was no small feat, but Farhan Akhtar dove into the role with unmatched commitment. From undergoing grueling physical transformations to mastering the emotional nuances of a war-scarred athlete, Farhan gave one of the most critically acclaimed performances of his career. He didn’t just play Milkha Singh; he became him. The film’s success was a testament to his hard work, and it paid off with both audience love and national awards.
Aamir Khan in Laal Singh Chaddha
Taking on the Indian adaptation of Forrest Gump, Aamir Khan’s portrayal of Laal Singh Chaddha was rooted in innocence and hope. With his quiet, soft-spoken voice, warm smile, and emotional vulnerability, Aamir’s turbaned hero led audiences on a journey through several decades of India’s history. Though the film was met with mixed reviews, Aamir’s honesty in interpreting Laal’s childlike innocence and profound emotional insight cannot be questioned. He showed us how vulnerability can be so very powerful.
Abhishek Bachchan in Manmarziyaan
Abhishek Bachchan brought to life Robbie in Manmarziyaan, a man of silence but infinite depth. Within a whirlwind love triangle, Robbie was the voice of reason, maturity, and patience. Turbaned with quiet dignity, Abhishek delivered a performance that was earthy and authentic. His green-flag male lead was a welcome respite and had people cheering for his character long after the movie was over.
Last thoughts on this
Sikh actors on the Bollywood screen have too often been depicted with a combination of brawn, sentiment, and grit. From a side-splitting comedy to an uplifting biopic to a romantic love story, they have brought hue and depth to Indian films. But what gives them longevity is the players themselves, those who honor the turban, comprehend the faith, and infuse their performances with sincerity.
These seven representations remind us that talented acting is not all about looks or accent; it’s about understanding, genuineness, and the capability to bring a character to life. And in the case of portraying Sikhs on screen, these Bollywood actresses and actors completely stole the show and our hearts.