A Defining Turning Point in His Career
When Badlapur released in 2015, it didn’t just add another title to Varun Dhawan’s filmography — it reshaped his career.
Until then, audiences associated him with charming, feel-good entertainers like Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania and Student of the Year. However, with Badlapur, he stepped into uncharted territory. He transformed into Raghu, a shattered husband consumed by grief and revenge after losing his wife and son.
Moreover, under the direction of Sriram Raghavan, the film embraced a gritty, morally complex narrative. As a result, the industry began to see Dhawan in a completely new light — not just as a commercial hero, but as a serious performer.
The Emotional Cost Behind the Applause
Although the film earned critical acclaim, the journey came at a personal cost.
Later, Varun openly admitted that the role affected his mental health. Transitioning from upbeat romantic characters to a man drowning in sorrow proved emotionally exhausting. In fact, he revealed that he felt “very sad” during the filming process.
Furthermore, because he had never experienced the kind of devastating loss Raghu endured, he had to deeply internalize anguish and desperation. This intense emotional immersion gradually blurred the line between performance and reality. Consequently, the character’s pain lingered beyond the camera.
A Father’s Concern and a Director’s Observation
At the same time, those closest to him noticed the shift. His father, filmmaker David Dhawan, once shared that Varun became unusually tense and withdrawn. He would sometimes cry without explanation. Naturally, his persistent melancholic mood worried the family.
Similarly, director Sriram Raghavan acknowledged that Varun initially struggled to grasp the depth of Raghu’s grief. However, once he allowed himself to embrace the darkness fully, the performance evolved. Ultimately, that vulnerability became his greatest strength.
From Romantic Heartthrob to Intense Performer
Previously, Rohan Nanda in Student of the Year symbolized youthful charm and glossy romance. In contrast, Raghu in Badlapur embodied rage, silence, and emotional depth.
Therefore, this transformation did more than surprise audiences — it silenced critics. It expanded Dhawan’s range and firmly established him as one of his generation’s most versatile actors.
Eleven Years Later: A Film That Still Resonates
Even after 11 years, Badlapur remains a gripping cinematic experience. Its layered storytelling and morally complex characters continue to hold relevance.
More importantly, the film stands as a milestone in Varun Dhawan’s journey. It wasn’t merely a revenge drama. Instead, it marked the moment he proved his ability to step into darkness — and emerge stronger as an actor.
