In Padmaavat, while Deepika Padukone’s portrayal of Rani Padmavati and Shahid Kapoor’s portrayal of Maharawal Ratan Singh were integral to the film’s storyline, it was Ranveer Singh’s portrayal of the ruthless Sultan Alauddin Khilji that truly outshone the rest. His menacing, unpredictable, and intense performance as the power-hungry and obsessed ruler made him one of the most iconic villains in recent Bollywood history. Ranveer’s larger-than-life portrayal of Khilji, with his volatile emotions and unhinged behavior, captured the audience’s attention, making him the true star of the film. His performance, coupled with his haunting presence, became the film’s defining feature, elevating it beyond the typical hero-centric narrative.

One of the most iconic films in the Dhoom franchise, Dhoom 2 introduced Hrithik Roshan as Aryan/Mr. A. While Abhishek Bachchan reprised his role as the determined cop, it was Hrithik’s portrayal of the suave, mysterious, and borderline psychotic villain that stole the show. His charm, intelligence, and unpredictability made Mr. A an unforgettable antagonist, and many fans still consider him one of the best Bollywood villains.

In the 2023 hit Pathaan, while Shah Rukh Khan's titular role as the spy hero garnered attention, it was John Abraham’s portrayal of the villain, Rudra, that stole the limelight. His menacing presence, calculated moves, and fierce determination made him an unforgettable antagonist. John’s performance as a rogue agent with a personal vendetta outshone the hero in many scenes, with his larger-than-life portrayal of Rudra capturing the audience's imagination.

While Shah Rukh Khan’s character of Raees Alam was central to the story in Raees, it was the performance of Nawazuddin Siddiqui as the corrupt cop, Majmudar, that left a lasting impact. Nawazuddin’s portrayal was menacing, layered, and unpredictable. His portrayal of the antagonist, who is both a rival and a foil to Raees, made the movie memorable. His dialogues and chilling demeanor had the audience gripped, showcasing how a well-etched villain can easily overshadow the hero.

In this offbeat romantic comedy, the real show-stealer wasn’t the quirky hero (R. Madhavan) but the villainous, yet hilariously strong-willed character of Kusum, played by Kangana Ranaut. Though she was not a traditional "villain," her character arc was one of manipulation and emotional turbulence, and her performance was so powerful that it made her the star of the show. Kangana’s dual role, especially as the brash Kusum, was widely applauded for its depth and intensity.