The Bollywood icon Manoj Bajpayee celebrating his 55th birthday today. He is one of the most versatile and talented actors in Indian cinema, and has graced the screen with his remarkable performances across a wide range of genres. Bajpayee has contributed several unforgettable performances to Indian cinema. It's the perfect time to reminisce about the impactful characters he's brought to life on the silver screen. On his birthday Let's take a look back at five of his best films that showcase his brilliance and left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

The Family Man

The series produced and directed by Raj & D.K, Bajpayee portrays the role of Srikant Tiwari, a middle-class man who serves as a world-class spy, he tries to balance his familial responsibilities with those at the highly secretive special cell of the National Intelligence Agency. Along with him Priyamani, Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Ashlesha Thakur also starring

Gangs of Wasseypur

Gangs of Wasseypur is a 2012 film directed by Anurag Kashyap. In this epic black comedy crime, Bajpayee plays the role of Sardar who sets out to avenge his father who was murdered by Ramadhir Singh, a cunning politician and mining kingpin. The film also features Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Huma Qureshi and Richa Chadha.

Special 26

This Neeraj Pandey directorial is based on a real-life group of con artists who pulled off many clever robberies during the 1980s.  Bajpayee plays the role of CBI officer Wasim Khan. He has a very scanty appearance in the film. However, in the hands of an actor as exceptional as Bajpayee, such a clumsy character turns into something uniquely memorable. Manoj aces it to a point that even this performance looks like one of his absolute best. 

Sonchiriya

The film tells the story of a legion of dreaded dacoits, who once terrorised the Indian heartlands and how they split up after their leader was killed. The film unearths terrific performances from the outstanding actor Manoj Bajpayee. Bajpayee's character dies in the first act, but his spirit remains embedded in the ravines of the film.

Shootout At Wadala

Shootout At Wadala” is based on the book “Dongri to Dubai” written by Hussain Zaidi. Manoj Bajpayee and Sonu Sood have come together to play gangsters in Sanjay Gupta's film. Bajpayee leaves an impact with his flawless performance and, as always, his character stays with you. The film also stars Anil Kapoor, Kangana Ranaut, Tusshar Kapoor, Manoj Bajpayee, Sonu Sood and Siddhanth Kapoor among others.

Read Also: uttarakaanda: aishwarya rajesh’s casting confirmed officially; takes on role vacated by ramya