Unsung Heroes of Bollywood: Celebrating 2025's Most Underrated Performances
In a year brimming with cinematic highs and lows, several performances have shone brightly, yet somehow evaded the widespread acclaim they truly deserved. While box office numbers and trending hashtags often dictate the narrative, it's crucial to acknowledge the actors who've delivered exceptional work, pushing boundaries and breathing life into complex characters, regardless of the spotlight's intensity. Here, we spotlight some of the most underrated performances of 2025.
Abhishek Banerjee in Stolen
Abhishek Banerjee, known for his roles in Stree and Paatal Lok, delivered a nuanced and powerful performance in Stolen, a thriller that quietly explored social issues. Banerjee's ability to portray both fragility and strength made his performance the emotional core of the film. He embodied a character navigating a desperate search, showcasing a lived-in quality that resonated with authenticity. While Stolen may not have garnered blockbuster status, Banerjee's performance was a standout, solidifying his position as a versatile and compelling actor. In September 2025, Banerjee also returned to theatre after 20 years with a satirical solo act titled "Tu Kya Hai". The play offered a critique of dreamers chasing unattainable goals, with Banerjee turning the spotlight inward, satirizing his own journey with humor and honesty.
Vishal Jethwa in Homebound
Homebound, a poignant film exploring caste discrimination and economic hardship, featured a remarkable performance by Vishal Jethwa. Jethwa's portrayal resonated with sensitivity, shaping the emotional weight of the story. His expressions conveyed more than dialogues, grounding the film with raw honesty. Homebound was selected as India's entry for the Best International Feature Film at the 98th Academy Awards. Jethwa's performance in Homebound showcased his confidence and made the performance memorable.
Manoj Bajpayee in Inspector Zende
Manoj Bajpayee, a veteran known for his intense performances, once again proved his mettle in Inspector Zende, a comedy thriller where he plays Inspector Madhukar Zende. While the film itself offered a unique blend of genres, Bajpayee's portrayal of a determined police officer hunting a serial killer, played by Jim Sarbh, was a highlight. In December 2025, Bajpayee spoke about the insecurity in Bollywood, where actors rarely praise each other's work. Despite this, Bajpayee's dedication to his craft remains evident, with The Family Man Season 3 breaking records and receiving praise for his layered performance as Srikant Tiwari.
These actors, among others, have demonstrated their dedication to the craft, delivering performances that deserve recognition beyond box office success. Their work enriches the cinematic landscape, reminding us that true talent lies not only in popularity but also in the depth and authenticity of portrayal. As the year concludes, it is important to celebrate these underrated gems and acknowledge their significant contributions to Bollywood in 2025.
