Meet Bollywood’s dreaded villian who once used to be a leading hero, was engaged to Neelam, had a flop South debut, still charges Rs 6 crore per film, he is…

From romantic leads in the ’90s to playing a chilling, near-silent villain in Animal, Bobby Deol’s transformation is nothing short of a cinematic comeback story. Once written off after a string of flops—including a forgettable South debut—Bobby has now cemented his place as Bollywood’s new-age baddie.

The Animal effect: Villainy redefined
His haunting, dialogue-free portrayal in Animal earned him massive praise and reshaped his image overnight. South Indian filmmakers quickly took note, and now Bobby is back, fiercer than ever, as Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the upcoming period drama Hari Hara Veera Mallu.

The comeback continues
Starring alongside Telugu superstar Pawan Kalyan, the film is directed by Jyothi Krishna and carries a massive production budget of Rs 250 crore (USD 30 million). Releasing on July 24, 2025, it marks Bobby’s full-blown southern return—but this time with gravitas and grandiosity.

Director Jyothi Krishna revealed, “Bobby Deol’s performance in Animal was remarkable. The way he conveyed so much without dialogue opened up creative possibilities for our film.”

Bobby was reportedly “thrilled” when he heard the script and didn’t hesitate to embrace the role of a dark, complex Aurangzeb. “He’s fiercer, more majestic, and intensely haunting. His eyes say it all—even after the scene ends, his presence lingers,” Jyothi added.

More than just a comeback
From being once engaged to actress Neelam to charging a reported Rs 6 crore per film today, Bobby Deol’s journey is filled with highs, lows, and now, a fierce second wind. Hari Hara Veera Mallu promises not just another villain role, but a statement: Bobby Deol is here to stay—and rule.

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