As Pankaj Tripathi marks his 48th birthday on September 5, it’s a great time to look back at some of his most memorable supporting roles. Known for his incredible versatility and impactful performances, Tripathi has made a name for himself over the past two decades. Here’s a look at some of his standout supporting roles that often outshone even the lead actors.
Gangs of Wasseypur – 1 (2012)
In Anurag Kashyap‘s gritty crime drama Gangs of Wasseypur – 1, Pankaj Tripathi impressed audiences with his role as Sultan. Although he didn’t have a lot of screen time, his performance was so compelling that he left a lasting impression, even among a stellar cast including Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
Gangs of Wasseypur – 2 (2012)
The sequel, Gangs of Wasseypur – 2, continued the intense saga with many of the same actors, including Tripathi. Despite the focus on the dramatic showdown between Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s Faizal Khan and Tigmanshu Dhulia’s Ramadheer Singh, Tripathi’s portrayal of a ruthless character was so striking that it stole the spotlight from both the hero and villain.
Masaan (2015)
In the poignant film Masaan, Vicky Kaushal shone in a leading role, but Tripathi’s subtle and moving performance as Sadhya also received much praise. His portrayal of an unspoken, platonic love with Richa Chadha’s Devi offered a touching depiction of unrequited affection.
Newton (2017)
Rajkummar Rao was the heart of Newton, playing a dedicated government clerk in a remote village. However, Tripathi’s role as Assistant Commandant Aatma Singh added a layer of complexity and intrigue to the film. His performance complemented Rao’s, making the film even more engaging.
Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017)
In Bareilly Ki Barfi, directed by Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, Pankaj Tripathi’s role as a modern, understanding father was a highlight. His portrayal of a father who respects his daughter’s choices and dreams was warmly received and remains one of Tripathi’s standout performances.
Sacred Games Season 2 (2019)
In the dark and gripping series Sacred Games Season 2, Tripathi’s portrayal of Guruji was particularly notable. Even with Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s powerful performance as Gaitonde, Tripathi’s Guruji became a fan favorite, sparking numerous memes and discussions among viewers.
Stree (2018)
Stree, a unique horror-comedy, featured Tripathi as Rudra, a librarian and expert on local ghost stories. His quirky and memorable performance as a researcher into supernatural phenomena added a distinct flavor to the film, making it one of his most interesting roles.
Ludo (2020)
Finally, in Anurag Basu’s Ludo, Tripathi played gangster Satyendra Tripathi, bringing humor and depth to the role. His performance managed to shine through alongside other big names like Abhishek Bachchan and Rajkummar Rao, demonstrating his talent for adding layers to even comedic roles.
Pankaj Tripathi an Incredible Actor
Happy 48th birthday to Pankaj Tripathi! Celebrated for his incredible range and impactful supporting roles, Tripathi has captivated audiences with his nuanced performances. From intense dramas to quirky comedies, his remarkable talent consistently shines. Here’s to many more years of bringing unforgettable characters to life on screen!
As we celebrate Pankaj Tripathi’s birthday, it’s clear that his supporting roles have often outshone lead performances, showcasing his exceptional skill and versatility.
