December 2025 marks the release of the much-anticipated spy thriller 'Dhurandhar', featuring a powerhouse cast that includes the legendary Sanjay Dutt. This has sparked a wave of nostalgia, taking fans back to the 1990s, a decade where Dutt delivered some of his most challenging and unforgettable performances. His roles from that era were often danger-driven and complex, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
The Unforgettable Anti-Hero: Ballu in Khal Nayak
No discussion of Sanjay Dutt's 90s filmography is complete without 'Khal Nayak' (1993). The film was a cultural phenomenon, dominating the decade with its powerful music and dialogues. Dutt took on the negative character of Ballu, a criminal who escapes prison and finds himself entangled with an undercover police officer, played by Madhuri Dixit. His portrayal of the conflicted anti-hero, alongside co-stars Madhuri Dixit and Jackie Shroff, was both menacing and charismatic, making it one of his most iconic roles.
The Cult Classic That Defined Realism: Vaastav
The year 1999 saw Sanjay Dutt deliver a career-defining performance in Mahesh Manjrekar's 'Vaastav: The Reality'. The film became an instant cult classic, praised for its gritty portrayal of the underworld. Dutt played Raghu, an ordinary man forced into a life of crime, showcasing a raw and realistic side to the gangster narrative. His dialogue, particularly the famous "50 tola" line, remains etched in popular culture. The film also featured Namrata Shirodkar, Sanjay Narvekar, and Reema Lagoo in pivotal roles.
Early 90s Success: Sadak and Gumrah
Dutt's early 90s success was solidified with films like 'Sadak' (1991), directed by Mahesh Bhatt. This romantic thriller, co-starring Pooja Bhatt and the menacing Sadashiv Amrapurkar, was not only a critical success for its performances and music but also emerged as one of the highest-grossing films of its year.
In 'Gumrah' (1993), directed by the maestro Yash Chopra, Dutt showcased a different facet of his acting. He played a petty thief who comes to the aid of a singer, portrayed by Sridevi, who is wrongly arrested for drug possession in Hong Kong. This role highlighted his ability to play the charming, street-smart rescuer in a high-stakes romantic drama.
The Comfort Watch: Haseena Maan Jayegi
Ending the decade on a lighter note, Dutt starred in David Dhawan's hilarious comedy 'Haseena Maan Jayegi' (1999). Teaming up with Govinda as a pair of mischievous, prank-loving brothers, Dutt displayed impeccable comic timing. The film, also featuring Karisma Kapoor and Pooja Batra, with its catchy songs and hilarious banters, has endured as a beloved comfort watch for generations of audiences.
As Sanjay Dutt continues his cinematic journey with new-age projects like 'Dhurandhar', these iconic roles from the 1990s serve as a powerful reminder of his versatility and enduring star power. From the dark depths of 'Khal Nayak' to the realistic grit of 'Vaastav' and the comedic charm of 'Haseena Maan Jayegi', his filmography from this decade is a masterclass in range, securing his position as a true OG of Bollywood.
