Farhan Akhtar's filmography is a reflection of fearless choices, discipline, and an unshakable commitment to meaningful cinema. Be it stepping into the shoes of real-life legends or exploring flawed, unapologetic, deeply human characters, Farhan's performances have consistently delivered depth and authenticity. On his birthday, here's revisiting some of his most impactful performances that highlight why he remains one of the most multi-dimensional performers of his generation.
Updated On: 2026-01-09 12:16 PM IST
Compiled by : Amarylisa Gonsalves
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag
Farhan Akhtar’s portrayal of Milkha Singh became a career-defining performance. The film showcased his physical transformation, emotional restraint, and deep internalisation of the Flying Sikh’s journey.
Dil Dhadakne Do
Farhan stood out for his warmth and emotional intelligence in this multi-starrer family drama. His performance balanced romance and realism, adding depth to a layered narrative.
120 Bahadur
Released in 2025, this war drama had Farhan portray Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, in a story based on the 1962 Battle of Rezang La.
Shaadi Ke Side Effects
Farhan brought relatability and charm, narrating the complexities of modern marriage with honesty and humour in this urban relationship drama.
Toofan
Being physically and emotionally, Toofan showcased Farhan’s dedication to transformation- driven cinema. He played the role of a boxer fighting personal demons.
Rock On
Rock On marked Farhan's debut, establishing him as a performer. He blended music, emotion, and realism to the film and its songs.
Luck By Chance
Farhan played an ambitious outsider navigating fame, compromise, and ambition, bringing authenticity and subtle irony to the role.
Wazir
Farhan stepped into a morally complex world as a man seeking closure after a profound loss. His performance anchored the film’s cerebral tone, balancing intelligence with simmering pain and purpose.
Lucknow Central
This film showcased Farhan as a man caught in a flawed system. His performance added humanity and emotional depth to the film’s prison drama setting.
Karthik Calling Karthik
Farhan Akhtar showcased inner conflict and vulnerability with remarkable control as a socially withdrawn man battling fear, loneliness, and fractured confidence.
The Sky Is Pink
Farhan delivered a moving performance as a father navigating love, loss, and resilience. His emotional grounding became the backbone of this real-life inspired story.
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Farhan brought emotional maturity with quiet vulnerability to a story about friendship, fears, and self-discovery.
