Sanjay Dutt, often referred to as "Sanju Baba" by his fans, is one of Bollywood's most iconic actors, known for his versatility and resilience both on and off the screen. The son of legendary actors Sunil Dutt and Nargis, Sanjay Dutt has had a career spanning over four decades, marked by significant highs and lows. If you are a fan of the Munnabhai franchise actor, here’s a guide to his best movies along with all the options where you can stream them in India!
Which Sanjay Dutt movies should I watch first?
Sanjay Dutt made his debut in 1981 with Rocky, a film directed by his father, Sunil Dutt. The film was a commercial success, and Sanjay's boyish charm and raw energy made him an instant sensation. However, his early career was marred by personal struggles, including substance abuse, which affected his professional life.
Despite these challenges, Sanjay Dutt delivered several memorable performances in the 80s and 90s. Films like Naam (1986), directed by Mahesh Bhatt, showcased his potential as a serious actor. His portrayal of a man caught in the web of illegal activities in Naam was widely appreciated and marked the beginning of his transformation as a versatile actor capable of handling intense roles.
The 1990s were a transformative period for Sanjay Dutt. He starred in Saajan (1991), a romantic drama that solidified his position as a leading actor in Bollywood.
However, it was his role as the iconic gangster in Khalnayak (1993) that truly elevated his stardom. Directed by Subhash Ghai, Khalnayak featured Sanjay as Ballu, a notorious criminal with a complex personality. His intense performance, coupled with the film's memorable music, made it one of the biggest hits of the year.
Sanjay Dutt's career took a significant hit in the late 90s and early 2000s due to his legal troubles, including his involvement in the 1993 Bombay bombings case. Despite spending time in prison, Dutt managed to make a strong comeback with Vaastav: The Reality (1999), where he played the role of Raghu, a man who turns to crime out of desperation. His gritty portrayal of Raghu won him the Filmfare Award for Best Actor and is still considered one of his best performances.
The 2000s saw Dutt delivering more powerful performances in films like Munnabhai MBBS (2003) and its sequel Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006). As Munna Bhai, a lovable goon with a heart of gold, Dutt charmed audiences and critics alike, proving that he could excel in both serious and comedic roles. The Munna Bhai series became a cultural phenomenon, and Sanjay's portrayal of the character is one of the most beloved in Bollywood history.
In recent years, Sanjay Dutt has continued to work in a variety of films, including Agneepath (2012), where he played the menacing villain Kancha Cheena, and Panipat (2019), where he portrayed the historical figure Ahmad Shah Abdali. His ability to take on diverse roles across different genres has kept him relevant in the ever-evolving film industry.
Why is Munnabhai MBBS the best Sanjay Dutt movie to watch?
Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. is widely regarded as Sanjay Dutt's best movie due to its perfect blend of humor, heart, and social commentary. Dutt's portrayal of Munna, a lovable goon who poses as a doctor to fulfill his father's dream, resonated deeply with audiences. The film showcased his comedic timing and emotional depth, creating an iconic character who stands for kindness and change.
Where can you watch the best Sanjay Dutt movies online?
Below you can find the latest streaming information for Sanjay Dutt’s best movies. This includes every offer for viewers in India today. We'll also show you if any of his best movies are available to watch online for free.