Kannada superstar Shiva Rajkumar has carved a niche for himself with his intense, powerful acting that brings raw, powerful stories to life. As she gears up for her latest release, Bhairathi Ranagal, we take a look at five unforgettable films other than Bhairathi Ranagal (her character’s name) from Mufti (2017) that showcase her grit and versatility, Which left a lasting impression on the audience. From navigating the dark underworld to confronting personal demons, these roles exemplify his stature as one of Kannada cinema’s most dynamic actors.

Om (1995)

A milestone in Kannada cinema, Om Shiva marks one of Rajkumar’s most iconic performances. Directed by Upendra, the film is based on collective struggles and the cost of violence in everyday life. Shiva Rajkumar’s portrayal of the character Satya struggling with love and violence set a new standard for crime dramas in Indian cinema. The film, with its grim settings and realistic depiction of gang culture, pushed boundaries and remains a cult classic for its authentic storytelling and gripping tension.

Kaddipudi (2013)

In Kaddipudi directed by Duniya Soori, Shiva Rajkumar embodies Anand’s struggle on the streets known as Kaddipudi. The film paints a haunting picture of a man striving for peace, while being pulled back into the violent underworld he desperately wants to leave behind. His nuanced performance shows the weakness of a man haunted by his past and the moral dilemmas of living a life surrounded by crime. With its bleak atmosphere and tragic undertones, Kaddipudi remains a powerful testament to his ability to portray complex and layered characters.

Tagaru (2018)

A high-energy thriller, Tagaru is known for its non-linear storyline and intense action sequences. Directed by Duniya Sori, the film sees Shiva Rajkumar as Shivaraj (Tagaru Shiva), a fierce police officer who goes on a cat-and-mouse chase with criminals. His portrayal of a tireless cop brings a palpable intensity that keeps the audience engaged. Tagaru is known for its rustic screenplay and unexpected turns, and this showcases Shiva Rajkumar at his best, delivering a gritty, unforgettable performance and a box-office blockbuster.

Jogi (2005)

Directed by Prem, Jogi tells the emotional story of Madesha, a rural man who loses himself in the harsh urban environment of Bengaluru. The film blends themes of a mother’s love, loss and the dark side of city life, giving audiences one of Shiva Rajkumar’s most intense roles. Madesha’s journey from innocence to despair not only highlights her acting ability but also reflects the emotional depth and patience that has become her hallmark.

Killing Veerappan (2016)

Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Killing Veerappan is a thriller based on the real-life mission to capture the notorious dacoit Veerappan. Shiv Rajkumar plays the role of a special task force officer focused on justice. The film’s dark tone and tense atmosphere reflect his character’s constant exploration. His intense performance as a determined officer adds a wonderful depth to the film, making it one of his most memorable portrayals.

These five films showcase Shiva Rajkumar’s skill in embodying intense and serious characters. For fans of crime drama and raw action, these movies are a must watch. Mufti directed by Narthan is another film in which Shiva Rajkumar enthralled the audience as Bhairathi Ranagal. So much so that there was a need for a standalone film based on this character.

Along with Shiva Rajkumar in the lead role, the film stars Rukmini Vasanth, Rahul Bose, Shabir Kallarakkal, Devaraj, Avinash and others in lead roles. The much-awaited film is set to release on November 15, 2024, which will clash with Suriya’s Tamil magnum opus Kanguva and Varun Tej’s Telugu film Matka at the box office.