MUMBAI: As the first half of 2025 wraps up, three performances have stood out in the world of Hindi cinema. Aamir Khan's return in Sitaare Zameen Par, Rajkummar Rao's powerful turn in Maalik, and Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of a Maratha warrior in Chhaava have each made a significant mark. From emotional depth to raw intensity and grand-scale storytelling, these actors have delivered some of their most memorable work yet.
Aamir Khan in Sitaare Zameen Par
Aamir Khan made a strong comeback with Sitaare Zameen Par, a spiritual successor to his 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par. In this film, he plays a compassionate coach mentoring differently-abled athletes. Released in June 2025, the film initially opened modestly but gained momentum through strong word-of-mouth. With a global collection of over 220 crore rupees on a 90 crore budget, it emerged as a commercial success.
What truly elevated the film was Aamir's restrained yet deeply moving performance. Critics and fans alike praised his ability to channel warmth and sincerity without falling into melodrama. While some questioned the film’s familiarity, there was little doubt about the impact of Aamir’s portrayal. His return not only reconnected him with audiences but also reaffirmed his skill at blending mainstream appeal with meaningful storytelling.
Rajkummar Rao in Maalik
In Maalik, Rajkummar Rao steps into the role of Deepak, a farmer’s son who rises to power as a feared gangster. This performance marked a significant shift in tone for Rao, known for his more grounded and realistic portrayals. With a fierce presence and unflinching intensity, he delivered a performance that dominated every frame.
The actor’s portrayal received a lot of praise from the audience and critics alike. His transformation into a ruthless don was complete, from body language and dialect to emotional shifts. Critics called it one of his most commanding roles to date, and fans on social media hailed him as the reason to watch the film. Despite the film’s flaws, Rao’s performance is widely viewed as a career-defining moment in 2025.
Vicky Kaushal in Chhaava
Vicky Kaushal took on one of the year’s most ambitious roles in Chhaava, portraying Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji. The historical epic, directed by Laxman Utekar and backed by a grand production, became one of the year’s biggest blockbusters, reportedly earning over 800 crore rupees worldwide.
Kaushal’s performance has received mixed reviews. While some viewers found his portrayal of the Maratha warrior inspiring and intense, others critiqued the film’s screenplay and his inconsistent accent. However, even critics acknowledged that Kaushal carried the film on his shoulders, particularly in emotionally charged scenes and large-scale battle sequences. His effort and presence in such a demanding role helped elevate the historical drama and gave audiences a strong cinematic experience.
With half the year still to go, these three performances have set a high bar for the rest of 2025. Whether it is Aamir Khan’s quiet strength, Rajkummar Rao’s fierce energy, or Vicky Kaushal’s regal presence, each actor has reminded audiences of the power of committed, character-driven storytelling. As awards season approaches, these names are likely to dominate the conversation and inspire a new wave of performances in Hindi cinema.
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