KKN Gurugram Desk | Bollywood has a long history of films featuring the captivating and mystical characters of Naag (snake) and Naagin (female snake). These characters, often depicted as shape-shifting serpents with supernatural powers, have been a favorite in Bollywood films, from classic hits to more recent productions. The concept of Icchadhari Naag and Naagin (shape-shifting snakes) has fascinated audiences for years. In this article, we will explore some of the most iconic actors who have portrayed the roles of Naag and Naagin in Bollywood films, from the legendary Sridevi to the more contemporary Kartik Aaryan.

Kartik Aaryan’s Upcoming Role as Naag

Recently, the renowned production house Dharma Productions, under the direction of Karan Johar, announced the film “Nagjila”, where Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan will be playing the role of an Icchadhari Naag (shape-shifting snake). Kartik’s look from the film has already been unveiled, marking his entry into a genre that has seen many of Bollywood’s big stars don the role of the Naag and Naagin.

This isn’t the first time a Bollywood actor has taken on the role of a Naag. Over the years, several legendary actors have brought these mythical characters to life on the big screen. Let’s take a look at some of the iconic actors who have played these fascinating roles before Kartik Aaryan.

Armaan Kohli: The Shape-Shifting Naag in ‘Jaani Dushman’ (2002)

One of the most memorable portrayals of a Naag was done by Armaan Kohli in the 2002 film “Jaani Dushman”, directed by Rajkumar Kohli. The film became a cult classic, largely due to its frequent airings on television. Armaan Kohli played the role of an Icchadhari Naag, a character who transforms into a human to seek revenge. The film featured a stellar cast, including Akshay Kumar, Sunny Deol, and Sunil Shetty, making it one of the most talked-about ensemble films in Bollywood at the time.

In this film, the Naag played by Armaan Kohli is integral to the film’s plot, which revolves around supernatural elements and vengeance. His portrayal of a mystical and vengeful Naag is still remembered fondly by fans of the genre.

Manisha Koirala: The Naagin in ‘Jaani Dushman’

Alongside Armaan Kohli, Manisha Koirala also portrayed an Icchadhari Naagin in “Jaani Dushman”. Manisha’s character begins as a powerful Naagin who seeks revenge for the death of her partner (played by Armaan Kohli). After the Naagin’s death, she reincarnates as a human woman. Her portrayal of the Naagin was intense, and her chemistry with Armaan Kohli in the film made their pairing memorable.

The role marked one of the standout performances of Manisha Koirala in the supernatural genre, which was different from her usual dramatic roles.

Jeetendra and Rekha: The Iconic Naag and Naagin in ‘Sheshnaag’ (1990)

Another legendary pairing in the Naag-Naagin genre was Jeetendra and Rekha in the film “Sheshnaag” (1990). Directed by K.R. Reddy, this film featured Jeetendra as an Icchadhari Naag and Rekha as the powerful Naagin. The film also starred Rishi Kapoor and Danny Denzongpa.

The duo’s performance in this supernatural drama became iconic due to their portrayal of the magical world of Naag and Naagin. Jeetendra and Rekha became a memorable pair in the film, and their chemistry as the shape-shifting serpents was a major highlight.

Rekha: A Memorable Naagin in ‘Nagin’ (1976)

Before her role in “Sheshnaag”, Rekha had already established herself as a Naagin in the 1976 film “Nagin”. Directed by Rajkumar Kohli, this film featured Jeetendra as the Icchadhari Naag. Rekha’s portrayal of the Naagin was widely appreciated for its mystical charm and intensity. The film also starred Sunil Dutt, Feroz Khan, and Kabir Bedi in pivotal roles.

In “Nagin”, Rekha’s character, as the shape-shifting Naagin, sought vengeance for the wrongful death of her partner, a recurring theme in many Naagin films. Her role became one of the most iconic representations of the Naagin character in Bollywood cinema.

Sridevi: The Legendary Naagin in ‘Nagina’ (1986)

Sridevi is perhaps the most iconic actress to have portrayed the role of an Icchadhari Naagin in Bollywood. “Nagina” (1986) became one of the most popular films in the Naagin genre, and Sridevi’s portrayal of the shape-shifting serpent earned her a special place in Bollywood history. Directed by Harmesh Malhotra, the film also starred Amrish Puri as the villain and Rishi Kapoor as the hero.

Sridevi’s performance in “Nagina” was widely praised, and she brought elegance and strength to the character of the Naagin, which became a benchmark in Bollywood’s supernatural genre. The film’s immense popularity and Sridevi’s remarkable performance helped solidify her legacy in the Bollywood industry.

Mallika Sherawat: The Bold Naagin in ‘Hisss’ (2010)

Mallika Sherawat brought the character of the Naagin back to the big screen in a bold new avatar in the 2010 film “Hisss”. Directed by Jennifer Lynch, the film was a horror drama that featured Mallika as an Icchadhari Naagin seeking revenge. Known for her bold and daring roles, Mallika Sherawat added a modern twist to the traditional Naagin role, making her portrayal distinct from the more conventional ones.

In “Hisss”, Mallika’s character, with her seductive and mysterious persona, made an unforgettable impact. The film was a blend of horror, mystery, and supernatural elements, with Mallika’s performance as the vengeful Naagin at its core. While the film was not a major commercial success, Mallika’s portrayal remains one of the most memorable in the Naagin genre.

Over the years, Bollywood has seen several memorable portrayals of Naag and Naagin characters, ranging from the traditional, mystical roles to modern interpretations with a more bold and seductive twist. From Sridevi’s iconic Naagin in “Nagina” to Kartik Aaryan’s upcoming portrayal in “Nagjila”, the concept of shape-shifting serpents continues to captivate audiences.

The characters of Naag and Naagin hold a special place in Bollywood’s supernatural genre, and they continue to evolve with the times. As Kartik Aaryan gears up to play the Icchadhari Naag, it will be interesting to see how he brings his own unique style to this iconic role.

Bollywood’s fascination with the Naag-Naagin storyline shows no signs of fading, and with each new film, these supernatural characters continue to fascinate and entertain audiences, offering a blend of mystery, drama, and allure.