Sanya Malhotra burst onto the Bollywood scene with her debut in "Dangal" and has since established herself as a versatile and talented actress. Her filmography includes a mix of commercial hits and critically acclaimed films, showcasing her ability to take on diverse roles and deliver powerful performances. In this guide, we delve into the top 10 movies that define Sanya Malhotra's career.
1. Dangal (2016)
Description: Inspiring sports drama.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, "Dangal" is based on the true story of Mahavir Singh Phogat (Aamir Khan), a former wrestler who trains his daughters Geeta (Fatima Sana Shaikh) and Babita (Sanya Malhotra) to become world-class wrestlers. Sanya Malhotra plays Babita Kumari, whose journey from a small village in Haryana to winning international wrestling championships is both inspiring and heartwarming. The film addresses themes of gender equality and empowerment.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Dangal" is celebrated for its powerful narrative, strong performances, and inspiring message. Sanya Malhotra's portrayal of Babita Kumari earned her critical acclaim and established her as a promising talent in the industry. The film's blend of emotional depth and thrilling sports sequences makes it a standout in Indian cinema.
IMDb Score: 8.4
2. Pataakha (2018)
Description: Hilarious and heartwarming tale of sibling rivalry.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, "Pataakha" tells the story of two feuding sisters, Badki (Radhika Madan) and Chhutki (Sanya Malhotra), who are constantly at each other's throats. Their relationship undergoes various ups and downs as they navigate life's challenges. The film is based on Charan Singh Pathik's short story "Do Behnein" and captures the essence of rural India with humor and authenticity.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Pataakha" is praised for its raw and realistic portrayal of sibling dynamics. Sanya Malhotra delivers a spirited performance as Chhutki, capturing the nuances of her character's emotions and growth. The film's combination of humor, drama, and cultural richness makes it an engaging watch.
IMDb Score: 7.2
3. Badhaai Ho (2018)
Description: Heartfelt comedy-drama about an unexpected pregnancy.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma, "Badhaai Ho" revolves around Nakul Kaushik (Ayushmann Khurrana) and his family's reaction to the unexpected news of his middle-aged mother Priyamvada's (Neena Gupta) pregnancy. Sanya Malhotra plays Nakul's girlfriend, Renee, who supports him through the family's comedic and emotional turmoil. The film addresses themes of societal norms, family dynamics, and acceptance.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Badhaai Ho" is celebrated for its refreshing storyline, strong ensemble cast, and blend of humor and emotion. Sanya Malhotra's performance as Renee adds charm and depth to the film. The movie's exploration of unconventional family situations and its heartwarming message resonate with audiences.
IMDb Score: 8.0
4. Photograph (2019)
Description: Poignant romantic drama.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Ritesh Batra, "Photograph" follows the story of Rafi (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a struggling street photographer in Mumbai, who convinces a shy stranger, Miloni (Sanya Malhotra), to pose as his fiancée to appease his grandmother. The film explores their unlikely bond and the transformative power of human connection. "Photograph" is a delicate exploration of love, loneliness, and societal expectations.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Photograph" is praised for its subtle storytelling, beautiful cinematography, and poignant performances. Sanya Malhotra's portrayal of Miloni is both nuanced and compelling, capturing the character's quiet strength and vulnerability. The film's introspective nature and emotional depth make it a standout in contemporary Indian cinema.
IMDb Score: 6.8
5. Shakuntala Devi (2020)
Description: Biographical drama about the "human computer."
Plot and Significance
Directed by Anu Menon, "Shakuntala Devi" tells the story of the mathematical genius Shakuntala Devi (Vidya Balan) and her extraordinary life. Sanya Malhotra plays Anupama Banerjee, Shakuntala's daughter, who struggles to reconcile her own identity with her mother's larger-than-life persona. The film highlights Shakuntala Devi's achievements and the complexities of her personal relationships.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Shakuntala Devi" is celebrated for its engaging narrative, strong performances, and exploration of the mother-daughter relationship. Sanya Malhotra's portrayal of Anupama adds emotional depth to the film, capturing the character's journey of self-discovery and acceptance. The movie's blend of biographical elements and family drama makes it an inspiring watch.
IMDb Score: 6.1
6. Ludo (2020)
Description: Dark comedy anthology film.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Anurag Basu, "Ludo" is an ensemble film that weaves together multiple interconnected stories, each representing a different color of the Ludo game. Sanya Malhotra plays Shruti, who is caught in a chaotic adventure involving her ex-boyfriend Akash (Aditya Roy Kapur). The film explores themes of fate, chance, and the interconnectedness of human lives.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Ludo" is praised for its inventive storytelling, engaging performances, and unique narrative structure. Sanya Malhotra's role as Shruti showcases her versatility and ability to navigate complex characters. The film's blend of humor, drama, and dark comedy creates a captivating and entertaining cinematic experience.
IMDb Score: 7.6
7. Pagglait (2021)
Description: Heartfelt drama about self-discovery and grief.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Umesh Bist, "Pagglait" follows the story of Sandhya (Sanya Malhotra), a young widow who embarks on a journey of self-discovery following her husband's sudden death. As she navigates societal expectations and family pressures, Sandhya learns to embrace her individuality and redefine her future. The film addresses themes of grief, empowerment, and self-acceptance.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Pagglait" is celebrated for its heartfelt narrative, strong performances, and sensitive portrayal of grief and personal growth. Sanya Malhotra's performance as Sandhya is both poignant and empowering, capturing the character's evolution with grace and authenticity. The film's exploration of complex emotions and societal norms makes it a touching and thought-provoking watch.
IMDb Score: 6.9
8. Meenakshi Sundareshwar (2021)
Description: Charming romantic comedy.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Vivek Soni, "Meenakshi Sundareshwar" tells the story of a newlywed couple, Meenakshi (Sanya Malhotra) and Sundareshwar (Abhimanyu Dassani), who navigate the challenges of a long-distance marriage. The film explores their struggles, misunderstandings, and the efforts they make to keep their relationship alive despite the physical distance. The movie captures the essence of love, commitment, and modern relationships.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Meenakshi Sundareshwar" is praised for its charming storyline, endearing performances, and relatable themes. Sanya Malhotra's portrayal of Meenakshi is both delightful and sincere, bringing warmth and depth to the character. The film's blend of humor, romance, and cultural elements creates a heartwarming and enjoyable viewing experience.
IMDb Score: 6.9
9. Love Hostel (2022)
Description: Gripping crime thriller.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Shanker Raman, "Love Hostel" is a gritty crime thriller that follows the story of Jyoti (Sanya Malhotra) and Ashu (Vikrant Massey), a couple on the run from a ruthless mercenary (Bobby Deol) hired by Jyoti's family. The film explores themes of love, honor, and survival in the face of brutal societal norms and family pressures.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Love Hostel" is celebrated for its intense narrative, strong performances, and unflinching portrayal of violence and societal issues. Sanya Malhotra's portrayal of Jyoti showcases her ability to handle complex and challenging roles. The film's exploration of love and resilience in the face of adversity makes it a compelling and powerful watch.
IMDb Score: 6.5
10. Kathal (2023)
Description: Satirical comedy-drama.
Plot and Significance
Directed by Yashowardhan Mishra, "Kathal" is a satirical comedy-drama that revolves around the disappearance of a prized jackfruit from a politician's garden, leading to an absurd investigation. Sanya Malhotra plays Mahima, an enthusiastic police officer determined to solve the case. The film uses humor and satire to comment on social and political issues.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Kathal" is praised for its witty storytelling, engaging performances, and sharp social commentary. Sanya Malhotra's performance as Mahima adds a layer of charm and humor to the film, showcasing her comedic timing and versatility. The movie's blend of satire and drama creates an entertaining and thought-provoking viewing experience.
IMDb Score: 7.0
FAQs
1. What makes Sanya Malhotra's performances stand out?
Sanya Malhotra's performances are known for their authenticity, emotional depth, and versatility, allowing her to portray a wide range of characters convincingly.
2. Are there any must-watch Sanya Malhotra movies?
Yes, must-watch Sanya Malhotra movies include "Dangal," "Pataakha," and "Badhaai Ho."
3. Which Sanya Malhotra movie explores the theme of sibling rivalry?
"Pataakha" explores the theme of sibling rivalry through the story of two feuding sisters.
4. Are there any Sanya Malhotra movies that address societal issues?
Yes, movies like "Pagglait" and "Love Hostel" address societal issues such as grief, empowerment, honor, and survival.
5. What themes are commonly explored in Sanya Malhotra's movies?
Common themes in Sanya Malhotra's movies include family dynamics, personal growth, societal norms, and the complexities of relationships.
6. Can Sanya Malhotra's movies appeal to a wide audience?
Yes, Sanya Malhotra's movies appeal to a wide audience due to their engaging narratives, relatable themes, and strong performances.
Sanya Malhotra's filmography offers a rich and diverse cinematic experience that showcases her talent and versatility. From the inspiring journey of "Dangal" to the heartfelt narrative of "Pagglait," her movies provide authentic representations and thought-provoking stories. Whether you're looking for intense dramas, charming comedies, or gripping thrillers, these top 10 Sanya Malhotra movies are essential viewing for anyone seeking to explore the depth and brilliance of her acting prowess.
