Mumbai: Sanjay Leela Bhansali has always shaped icons rather than merely casting actors. In his films, heroes are revealed, not introduced. As a result, a Bhansali protagonist is defined by deep emotion, inner conflict, and restraint — making him both courageous and vulnerable.
Moreover, these men are rarely conventional winners. Although surrounded by grandeur, they endure heartbreak with poetic grace, suffer in silence, and love with intensity. Over time, this distinctive masculine archetype has evolved through several iconic performances.
Salman Khan Established the Emotional Standard
To begin with, the foundation of Bhansali’s romantic hero was laid by Salman Khan’s Sameer in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam. Sameer was tender, impulsive, and achingly human. He loved recklessly, learned through pain, and embraced vulnerability without hesitation. Consequently, romance felt operatic yet deeply personal.
Hrithik Roshan Redefined Strength in Guzaarish
Subsequently, Bhansali turned inward with Hrithik Roshan’s Ethan Mascarenhas in Guzaarish. Though physically limited, Ethan was emotionally expansive. He embodied dignity, restraint, and quiet endurance. Through this character, Bhansali proved that heroism does not rely on physical power; instead, emotional resilience emerged as the greatest strength.
Ranveer Singh Pushed the Boundaries of Intensity
In contrast, Ranveer Singh brought Bhansali’s intensity to its extremes. As Bajirao and Alauddin Khilji, he portrayed passion in its rawest, most consuming form. These men were driven by obsession, desire, and destruction. As a result, Ranveer’s performances transformed Bhansali’s heroes into cinematic legends.
Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal Signal an Evolution
Meanwhile, Love & War marks a significant shift as Bhansali explores conflicted masculinity through Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal. While Ranbir channels introspective turmoil, Vicky offers grounded emotional honesty. Together, they represent heroes shaped by conscience rather than conquest — fractured, moral, and deeply human.
Siddhant Chaturvedi Joins the Bhansali Lineage
Even under Bhansali’s production banner, his sensibility remains unmistakable. Within this tradition, Do Deewane Seher Mein introduces Siddhant Chaturvedi.
Importantly, Siddhant does not break the Bhansali mould; instead, he builds upon it. From the film’s visuals, he emerges as a contemporary poetic lover — restrained yet evocative. His intensity lies in silences, lingering glances, and unspoken emotion. In doing so, he reimagines the Bhansali hero for a new generation.
A Legacy That Continues to Evolve
Ultimately, the Bhansali hero remains timeless. From Salman Khan’s emotional openness to Ranveer Singh’s ferocity and now Siddhant Chaturvedi’s quiet depth, this legacy keeps evolving. Opulent on the outside yet conflicted within, Bhansali’s masculinity is shaped by emotion, not ego.
