Shukracharya – Mahakali (2027)

Akshaye Khanna is set to undergo another dramatic transformation as Shukracharya in Mahakali. For the mythological role, he appears almost unrecognisable with long hair and a flowing beard. His traditional mystic styling gives the character an ascetic yet formidable appearance. The transformation is designed to reflect Shukracharya’s identity as a powerful Asura guru, combining elements of spirituality, wisdom and mysticism with a commanding physical presence.

Rehman Dakait – Dhurandhar (2025)

Akshaye Khanna underwent a striking transformation to play Rehman Dakait, a ruthless Pakistani gangster in Dhurandhar. He sported detailed prosthetics that dramatically altered his facial appearance, along with a receding hairline that gave him a rugged and weathered look. His transformation went beyond makeup, as he adopted a menacing posture and hardened physicality to convey the character’s intimidating presence. His controlled expressions and aggressive body language added to the portrayal of a dangerous underworld figure.

Aurangzeb – Chhaava (2025)

For his portrayal of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in Chhaava, Akshaye Khanna embraced a severe and commanding appearance. He shaved his head and relied on intense expressions and restrained body language to capture the emperor’s stern personality. His regal costumes and overall styling complemented the transformation, giving him an imposing historical presence. The actor’s controlled movements and powerful screen presence helped distinguish the character from his previous roles.

IG Tarun Ahlawat – Drishyam 2 (2022)

In Drishyam 2, Akshaye Khanna played IG Tarun Ahlawat, a sharp and determined police officer. He adopted a distinguished salt-and-pepper look, along with the imposing police uniform, to establish the character’s authority. His restrained expressions and measured body language reflected an investigator who remains focused on uncovering the truth. Rather than relying on an extreme physical transformation, Khanna used styling, posture and mannerisms to create a believable senior police officer.

Major Hanut Singh – State of Siege: Temple Attack (2021)

For his role as Major Hanut Singh in State of Siege: Temple Attack, Akshaye Khanna worked on developing a physically fit and combat-ready appearance. He underwent physical training to prepare for the demanding military action sequences and to convincingly portray an NSG commando. His disciplined posture, military styling and controlled movements contributed to the authenticity of the character. The physical preparation also allowed him to perform the intense action sequences with greater conviction.

Sanjay Baru – The Accidental Prime Minister (2019)

Akshaye Khanna focused on detailed physical and behavioural elements while portraying political commentator and former media advisor Sanjay Baru in The Accidental Prime Minister. He adopted Baru’s distinctive spectacles and styling to create a visual resemblance to the real-life personality. The actor also incorporated specific mannerisms, gestures and body language into his performance. These subtle details helped make the portrayal feel grounded and realistic, particularly given that the character was based on a real person.

Harilal Gandhi – Gandhi, My Father (2007)

For Gandhi, My Father, Akshaye Khanna underwent a physical transformation to portray Harilal Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi’s eldest son. He slimmed down and adopted a weathered, aged appearance to reflect Harilal’s troubled life and difficult circumstances. His dishevelled styling and subdued physicality complemented the emotional complexity of the character. Through his appearance and performance, Khanna conveyed Harilal’s vulnerability, inner conflict and estrangement from his famous father.

Lt. Dharamvir Singh – Border (1997)

One of Akshaye Khanna’s early memorable transformations came with his role as Lt. Dharamvir Singh in Border. For the war drama, he adopted the disciplined appearance and mannerisms of a 1971 Indian Army officer. His military uniform, grooming, posture and controlled movements helped establish his character as a committed soldier. The role required him to project both physical discipline and emotional restraint, marking an important early performance in Khanna’s career and establishing his ability to take on serious, character-driven roles.