Saif Ali Khan, the ever-charming Bollywood star, didn’t rise to fame in just a flash. Though he had a taste of recognition with his role in the 1994 hit “Main Khiladi Tu Anari,” it was far from an overnight breakthrough. It wasn’t until Saif Ali Khan stepped into the spotlight with the 2001 coming-of-age classic “Dil Chahta Hai,” sharing screen space with Aamir Khan, that things truly began to shift. That performance marked a turning point—people started to take notice of Saif Ali Khan in a whole new light.
Then came “Hum Tum,” a romantic comedy where Saif Ali Khan played a witty cartoonist and charming flirt. The role not only won hearts across India but also solidified his status as a leading man audiences couldn’t get enough of. In fact, Saif Ali Khan’s brilliant portrayal earned him the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actor—a testament to his growing depth and versatility.
But just when fans thought they had him figured out, Saif Ali Khan surprised everyone again. In 2006’s “Omkara,” a bold Indian reimagining of Shakespeare’s “Othello,” he took on the dark, manipulative character Ishwar Tyagi—loosely based on Iago. The role was intense, layered, and chilling, proving once and for all that Saif Ali Khan was no one-trick pony. With each performance, Saif Ali Khan continued to push boundaries, cementing his place not just as a star, but as a serious actor in Indian cinema.
When it comes to Saif Ali Khan’s filmography, fans and critics often point to Dil Chahtha Hain (2001) as the standout gem in his career. Yes, Saif Ali Khan delivered one of his most memorable performances in that film, which has consistently held the top spot as his highest-rated movie over the years. It’s no surprise really—Saif Ali Khan brought charm, depth, and emotional nuance to his role, contributing greatly to the film’s lasting appeal. On the flip side, not every project has been a hit, and unfortunately, Race 2 (2013) stands out for all the wrong reasons. Widely regarded as Saif Ali Khan’s lowest-rated film, it received quite a bit of criticism upon release. Despite the star power and high-octane action, the movie just didn’t resonate with audiences or reviewers. So, when you look at the full spectrum of Saif Ali Khan’s work, it’s clear that while he’s had incredible highs like Dil Chahtha Hain, there have also been missteps along the way—Race 2 being the most notable example.