As the nation celebrates Hanuman Jayanti, a festival marking the birth of the revered deity Hanuman, it's an opportune moment to reflect on the actors who have brought the iconic character of Bajrang Bali to life onscreen.
From legendary portrayals to modern interpretations, Hanuman's depiction has left a mark on audiences over the years.
One of the most iconic portrayals of Hanuman came from the legendary wrestler and actor Dara Singh. His first portrayal as Bajrangbali was in the 1976 film of the same name.
Over the years, he reprised the role in various mediums, including Ramanand Sagar’s beloved TV series Ramayan and the 1997 film Lav Kush.
Dara Singh's towering presence and portrayal of Hanuman have become emblematic of the character's strength and devotion.
In the recent mythological action film Adipurush (2023) directed by Om Raut, actor Devdatta Nage's rendition of the character Bajrang garnered widespread acclaim as well.
Despite criticisms leveled at the film for its tapori dialogues and VFX effects, Nage's portrayal stood out, earning praise from audiences nationwide and sparking discussions on social media platforms.
Following in his father's footsteps, Vindu Dara Singh also made a mark with his portrayal of Hanuman. In the TV series Jai Veer Hanuman (1995), Vindu embodied the essence of Bajrang Bali, tracing his journey from birth onwards.
In a recent Telugu blockbuster, the protagonist's journey intertwined with the mythos of Hanuman, albeit portrayed indirectly.
Teja Sajja's portrayal of a man bestowed with Hanuman's superpowers captivated audiences, earning him recognition for his portrayal of a modern-day hero blessed by the divine.
Looking ahead, anticipation mounts for Nitesh Tiwari's upcoming magnum opus Ramayana, where actor Sunny Deol is rumored to take the role of Hanuman.