Amitabh Bachchan, often referred to as the ‘Angry Young Man’ of Hindi Cinema, is an iconic figure whose cinematic journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. His charisma, versatility, and screen presence have enthralled audiences for decades. One remarkable aspect of his illustrious career is his portrayal of characters named “Vijay” in a multitude of films. The magic that Amitabh Bachchan has woven through these “Vijay” characters has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
From the intense and powerful to the emotional and inspiring, Amitabh Bachchan’s rendition of “Vijay” has resonated with audiences across generations. Let’s delve into the 22 films where this legendary actor has donned the name “Vijay.”
1. Zanjeer (1973): In this film, Amitabh Bachchan took his first step into the world of “Vijay” as Inspector Vijay Khanna, a character that marked the beginning of his legendary journey.
2. The Great Gambler (1979): As Vijay Kumar, he played a pivotal role in this action-packed thriller.
3. Trishul (1978): Amitabh portrayed Vijay Kumar, a man embroiled in a complex web of relationships and emotions.
4. Don (1978): The enigmatic and iconic character of Don, a double role, saw Amitabh Bachchan in a character named Vijay who posed as the notorious underworld kingpin.
5. Hera Pheri (1976): Amitabh Bachchan’s portrayal of Vijay in this comedy flick brought a lighter shade to the name.
6. Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974): In this film, his character Vijay stood for the common man’s struggle for basic necessities.
7. Deewaar (1975): Playing the iconic role of Vijay Verma, a character torn between moral choices, Amitabh showcased his acting prowess.
8. Shahenshah (1988): As Inspector Vijay Kumar Srivastav, he donned the mantle of a vigilante fighting crime.
9. Aakhree Raasta (1986): Amitabh Bachchan portrayed Vijay in a story that explores themes of revenge and redemption.
10. Dostana (1980): He was Vijay Varma, a character caught in a tale of friendship and love.
11. Shaan (1980): In this action-adventure film, Amitabh’s character was named Vijay Kumar.
12. Shakti (1982): Playing Vijay Kumar, he engaged in a power-packed performance alongside the legendary Dilip Kumar.
13. Sholay (1975): The iconic film saw Amitabh Bachchan as Jai, and while not explicitly named “Vijay,” the essence remained the same.
14. Sarkar 3 (2017): As Subhash Nagre (Sarkar), he continued to wield his influence, essentially being a character with qualities similar to Vijay.
15. Agneepath (1990): In a memorable portrayal, Amitabh Bachchan embodied Vijay Deenanath Chauhan, a character with an undying thirst for revenge.
16. Akayla (1991): Inspector Vijay Verma took the center stage in this crime drama, showcasing Amitabh’s enduring appeal.
17. Ek Rishtaa: The Bond of Love (2001): Vijay Kapoor became a symbol of family values and love, an extension of Amitabh’s versatility.
18. Aankhen (2002): Vijay Singh Rajput added a unique dimension to a bank heist thriller, where Bachchan’s charisma shone.
19. Nishabd (2007): Playing the unconventional Vijay in a complex love story, Amitabh Bachchan showcased his readiness to take on challenging roles.
20. Kaala Patthar (1979): Vijay Pal Singh’s character represented courage and determination amidst danger.
21. Do Aur Do Paanch (1980): Vijay was a part of a fun-filled rivalry, introducing humor into his repertoire.
22. Jhund (2022): Amitabh Bachchan’s latest addition to his “Vijay” legacy, where he takes on the role of Vijay Barse, a football coach inspiring young talents.
From his early days as Inspector Vijay Khanna in “Zanjeer” to his latest avatar as Vijay Barse in “Jhund,” Amitabh Bachchan has time and again proved that the name “Vijay” is synonymous with unforgettable performances. As he continues to enthrall us with his remarkable acting, these 22 films stand as a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian cinema. Amitabh Bachchan’s “Vijay” is not just a name; it’s a cinematic journey of a lifetime. Happy Birthday to the living legend!