Today, Ajay Devgn is once again in the spotlight for his powerful performance in the much-anticipated film Raid 2, which is garnering praise from both critics and audiences. But not long ago, the seasoned actor was facing one of the lowest phases of his professional journey—caught in a rough patch marked by a series of box office disappointments that nearly derailed his career.
There was a time when the versatile actor, known for delivering memorable performances in both intense dramas and commercial entertainers, was struggling to regain his lost ground in Bollywood. Back-to-back flops—around seven to eight in a row—had cast serious doubts over his bankability as a leading man. Industry insiders began speculating whether Devgn’s golden era was over.
Ajay, who made a powerful debut with Phool Aur Kaante in the early ’90s and went on to deliver stellar performances in films like Zakhm, Company, and The Legend of Bhagat Singh, suddenly found himself grappling with underperforming projects. These commercial failures not only affected his box office standing but also placed him under immense pressure as newer, younger actors were rising quickly in the film industry.
But as they say in cinema—and life—one hit can turn everything around.
Just when critics and fans were starting to write him off, one film arrived like a breath of fresh air and completely turned the tide in his favor. That film was ‘Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai’. Released in 2010 and directed by Milan Luthria, the film showcased Devgn in the role of Sultan Mirza, a larger-than-life underworld don inspired by real-life mafia figures of Mumbai’s past.
His performance was intense, commanding, and emotionally layered, reminding everyone of the depth and charisma that had once made him a force to reckon with. The film not only performed exceptionally well at the box office but also brought Devgn critical acclaim, reigniting his standing in the industry. It proved that while trends and stars may come and go, true talent never fades.
From that point onward, there was no looking back. Devgn went on to deliver massive hits such as Singham, Golmaal series, Drishyam, and Tanhaji, establishing himself as both a crowd-puller and a critically respected actor.
Today, as he continues to impress with Raid 2, Ajay Devgn stands as a testament to resilience in an industry where success can be fleeting and comebacks are rare. His journey—from nearly fading into obscurity to reclaiming superstardom—is an inspiration to aspiring actors and fans alike.
It serves as a powerful reminder that even when the odds are stacked against you, one right project, backed by passion and persistence, can reignite an entire career.
