One of India’s most critically acclaimed and beloved actors, Manoj Bajpayee, turned 56 on Wednesday, April 23. Known for his intense performances and a career that spans genres, formats, and languages, Bajpayee has redefined what it means to be a character actor who leads from the front.
From gritty thrillers to courtroom dramas, he’s consistently delivered powerful, layered performances.
On his birthday, there’s no better way to celebrate the actor’s legacy than by revisiting his most impactful roles in recent years.
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Here’s a curated list of his best work, all available on ZEE5 Global, showcasing the brilliance and range of Manoj Bajpayee.
Despatch
In Despatch, Manoj Bajpayee plays Joy Bag, a seasoned crime journalist struggling to stay relevant in the digital age. As he uncovers a major conspiracy while investigating Mumbai’s underworld, Joy’s pursuit of the truth puts his career—and his life—on the line. Bajpayee’s riveting performance drives this intense thriller through dangerous twists and turns.
Sirf Ek Banda Kaafi Hai
In one of his most acclaimed performances in recent years, Manoj Bajpayee plays P.C. Solanki, a lawyer who takes on a high-profile case against a powerful godman accused of assaulting a minor.
Based on true events, this gripping legal drama highlights Bajpayee’s powerful screen presence and his ability to deliver monologues with impact and restraint.
His portrayal of moral courage and quiet determination is unforgettable.
Silence… Can You Hear It? (Season 1) and Silence 2: The Night Owl Bar Shootout
In the Silence series, Manoj Bajpayee takes on the role of ACP Avinash Verma, a sharp and relentless investigator. Across both seasons, he leads the charge in solving complex crimes, all while navigating intense personal and professional challenges.
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His performance as a seasoned detective with a no-nonsense approach adds a strong emotional core to the series. Co-starring with Prachi Desai, Bajpayee’s portrayal of Verma stands out in this binge-worthy thriller.
Bhaiyya Ji
The respected and feared Ram Charan, better known as Bhaiyya Ji, is a man who had left his violent past behind. But when his younger stepbrother is brutally murdered, he’s forced to return to the world he once ruled.
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Manoj Bajpayee delivers a fierce and emotionally charged performance as a former crime lord seeking justice.
As Bhaiyya Ji sets out to avenge his brother’s death, he unleashes a storm on those who wronged him — proving that some legends never fade.
Dial 100
In this ZEE5 Original, Manoj Bajpayee plays Nikhil Sood, a police emergency call operator who receives a distress call from a woman on the brink of suicide.
As Nikhil engages with her, he discovers that her intentions are far more dangerous than he imagined. With a life on the line and a race against time, Bajpayee delivers a gripping performance, portraying a man caught in an emotional and moral dilemma, trying to stop a tragedy from unfolding.
Neena Gupta and Sakshi Tanwar bring added depth to the film with their compelling performances.
