From Alia Bhatt, Vicky Kaushal to Kareena Kapoor Khan & Prithviraj Sukumaran: Meghna Gulzar’s Actors Finding New Strengths

has built a distinct filmmaking style where storytelling and performances remain at the heart of her films. Over the years, the filmmaker has worked with several established actors and placed them in roles that allowed them to explore different shades of their craft. With and   coming together for  , here is a look at some of the notable performances from Meghna’s films.

Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal in Raazi:

Raazi gave Alia Bhatt the challenging role of Sehmat, a young woman who becomes involved in espionage during a difficult period. Alia brought vulnerability and determination to the character, while Vicky Kaushal played Iqbal with a restrained performance that complemented the film’s emotional core.

Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma and Neeraj Kabi in Talvar:

In Talvar, Meghna Gulzar presented a complex investigative drama through multiple perspectives. Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma and Neeraj Kabi each brought a different dimension to the story. Irrfan’s controlled portrayal, in particular, became one of the film’s most appreciated performances.

Vicky Kaushal, Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra in Sam Bahadur:

Vicky Kaushal underwent a significant transformation for Sam Bahadur, portraying Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. The actor moved away from his familiar screen persona to capture the mannerisms and personality of the decorated military officer. Fatima Sana Shaikh and Sanya Malhotra also delivered measured performances in their respective roles.

Kareena Kapoor Khan & Prithviraj Sukumaran in Daayra:

Meghna Gulzar’s next film brings Kareena Kapoor Khan and Prithviraj Sukumaran together for the first time. Kareena plays DCP Ajooni Kohli, while Prithviraj portrays DCP Raman Kumar. Both actors step into characters from the law-enforcement world, giving Meghna another opportunity to present familiar stars in relatively different roles.

Directed by Meghna Gulzar, Daayra is produced by Junglee Pictures and Pen Studios and distributed by Pen Marudhar. The film is written by Yash Keswani, Sima Agarwal and Meghna Gulzar and is scheduled to release in cinemas on September 18, 2026. We are all set for the trailer reveal soon.