When we talk about Bollywood’s Khans, the conversation is usually dominated by the big three, Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir. Many forget that Saif Ali Khan has, quietly and consistently, carved out a career filled with memorable performances.
Saif, the charming chocolate boy, entered Hindi cinema in the ’90s. The son of legendary actress Sharmila Tagore had all it took to become the next big thing but only rose to fame after a series of hits over the years. It wasn’t until the 2000s that the Chote Nawab emerged as a powerhouse performer.
Dil Chahta Hai (2001) was a turning point, where his portrayal of the goofy and sweet Sameer instantly won hearts. Then came Hum Tum (2004), the much-loved cult classic with Rani Mukerji, which earned him the National Award for Best Actor. He beat Shah Rukh Khan (Swades) to take home the prestigious honour. Despite often playing the second lead in iconic films, he managed to win audiences over with his charm.
What audiences didn’t anticipate was that Saif would ditch his chocolate boy image for stronger, more unconventional roles. Unlike other Bollywood heroes who stuck to their comfort zones, he wasn’t afraid to take risks. In Omkara (2006), he shed his boy-next-door persona to play Langda Tyagi, a gritty, manipulative villain. The role still remains one of his finest. With Race (2008), Saif showcased his suave, action-hero side. He proved his versatility further with Love Aaj Kal (2009), seamlessly switching between modern-day and retro romance, and Cocktail (2012), where he added depth to what could have been a stereotypical spoilt brat. Vikram Vedha (2022), despite mixed reviews, featured him in a never-seen-before avatar.
He was also the first, and still the only, Khan to headline a web series. Sacred Games (2018) became India’s first major streaming hit, followed by the controversial Tandav and the recent Jewel Thief. This cemented his status as an actor who moves effortlessly between mediums.
Today, Saif has become selective with his scripts, but with every project, the Nawab of Pataudi proves he will never stick to a formula. This shapeshifter can headline a big commercial entertainer, slip into an offbeat indie or deliver a layered web series performance with equal ease.
He has never chased superstardom the way others have. Instead, he has built a career on talent, charm, and bold choices. And that’s what makes Bollywood’s Chote Nawab truly the most underrated Khan.