Kajol’s Top Underrated Performances
As Kajol turns 51 today, we look back at an artist who’s always brought something unexpected to the screen. With a career built on instinct and intensity, she’s moved effortlessly from iconic blockbusters to bold, character-driven roles that speak volumes.
Kajol has consistently redefined the Hindi film heroine, bringing strength, vulnerability, and authenticity to each role. From redefining romance with DDLJ to dramas exploring motherhood and justice, she continues to choose daring and meaningful projects. Her recent ventures into horror (Maa) and legal drama (The Trial) showcase her fearless approach. Here’s presenting her top underrated performances in recent times.
Maa (2025)
Role: A mother haunted by mythological forces.
A genre shift into mythological horror, Kajol’s gripping performance as terrified yet resilient mother drew praise for its psychological depth. One of her most daring roles yet.
Do Patti (2024)
Role: Sumati, a mysterious investigator.
A noir-ish thriller co-produced by Kriti Sanon, Kajol’s intense and layered portrayal in this small-town suspense drama became one of Netflix India’s most-watched titles.
The Trial (2023)
Role: Noyonika Sengupta, a lawyer navigating a tainted marriage.
Adapted from The Good Wife, this series showed Kajol as a resilient lawyer balancing motherhood, betrayal, and courtroom battles.
Salaam Venky (2022)
Role: Sujata, a mother of a terminally ill son.
Kajol delivered a heartbreaking, empathetic performance rooted in true events, subtle, strong, and emotionally raw.
Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020)
Role: Savitribai Malusare, wife of warrior Tanaji.
In a limited role, Kajol brought quiet dignity and emotional strength to this historical blockbuster, earning critical appreciation.
Helicopter Eela (2018)
Role: Eela, a single mom who goes back to college
While the film didn’t fare well at the box office, Kajol’s performance as a possessive mother had emotional resonance and comedic charm.
Also Read: Birthday Special: 5 Unconventional Roles That Show Us Kajol’s Acting Prowess
