Surveen Chawla to R. Madhavan, A Peek Into Actors Who Are Reshaping Negative Roles in Indian Cinema

Bollywood Bubble

August 31, 2025
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Indian cinema is witnessing a refreshing shift in the way negative roles are perceived. Here's how Surveen Chawla, R. Madhavan, and others are redefining villainy on-screen. Read more!

The idea of the “villain” in cinema has changed. No longer caricatured or one-note, negative roles today are layered, stylish, and often just as memorable as the hero. A new set of actors are stepping into this space and leaving their mark with performances that blur the lines between good and evil. Here are five actors who are redefining what it means to play the antagonist! Scroll below to read the entire article.

Actors Who Are Reshaping Negative Roles in Indian Cinema

Surveen Chawla

Andhera

Surveen Chawla in Andhera

In projects like Mandala Murders and Andhera , Surveen has showcased her range by diving into characters that demand both emotional complexity and a razor-sharp edge. What sets her apart is her ability to humanize grey roles — she doesn’t play them as “villains” but as layered individuals with motives, vulnerabilities, and contradictions. That balance between strength and subtlety is what makes her craft so compelling in this space.

R. Madhavan

Shaitaan

R. Madhavan in Shaitaan

With Shaitaan, Madhavan shocked audiences by stepping into the shoes of a menacing antagonist. Known for his romantic and heroic roles in the past, he proved just how chilling and unpredictable he can be when he turns to the dark side.

Bobby Deol

Bobby Deol in Animal

Bobby’s silent but terrifying role in Animal became one of the most talked-about performances of the year. His ability to command attention without words redefined how menace can be portrayed on screen.

John Abraham

John Abraham in Pathaan

In Pathaan, John took on the role of the suave yet ruthless Jim — a villain who matched Shah Rukh Khan’s hero blow for blow. His sharp screen presence and charisma turned Jim into one of the most memorable antagonists of recent times.

Arjun Kapoor

Arjun Kapoor as Ravan in Singham Again

Arjun stepped into the antagonist’s shoes in Singham Again, marking a bold move in his career. Going into the Rohit Shetty’s cop universe, he brought a raw intensity and unpredictability and added fresh energy to the film’s larger-than-life narrative. His turn proved that he’s unafraid to push boundaries and embrace darker shades on screen.

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