Bollywood’s accent experiments: Janhvi’s Malayalam twist, Alia’s Bihari edge and more

Accents and diction can make or break a character in films. Bollywood actors often step out of their comfort zone to embody the cultural, regional, or social background of their characters. Sometimes, the results earn standing ovations, and at times, mixed reactions. Here’s a look at Bollywood actors who made headlines for their diction and accents on screen.

Janhvi Kapoor in Param Sundari (2025): Janhvi’s Malayalam diction in the rom-com drew a mixed response. Some applauded her for venturing beyond her comfort zone, while others felt her accent could use more refinement.

Hrithik Roshan in Super 30 (2019): Hrithik took on the challenge of portraying Patna-based mathematician Anand Kumar. To do justice to the role, he adopted a Bihari accent. While his dedication was praised, many viewers felt the accent didn’t always land.

Deepika Padukone in Chennai Express (2013): Deepika’s portrayal of Meenamma, complete with a Tamilian accent, became one of the film’s highlights. Her comic timing earned widespread praise, though some viewers felt she went a tad overboard.

Shah Rukh Khan in Ra.One (2011): SRK played Shekhar Subramanium, a Tamil Brahmin scientist, in the Anubhav Sinha directorial. His attempt at a South Indian diction was noticeable but received mixed reactions; some found it endearing, while others thought it was exaggerated.

Aamir Khan in Lagaan (2001) and Dangal (2016): Known as Bollywood’s perfectionist, Aamir aced his diction in both films. In Lagaan, his rustic accent matched the rural 19th-century setting. Years later, in Dangal, his authentic Haryanvi accent and body language as wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat were praised as pitch-perfect.

Alia Bhatt in Udta Punjab (2016): Alia stunned audiences with her gritty performance as a Bihari migrant worker in Udta Punjab. Her raw diction and rustic delivery also won rave reviews.

Kangana Ranaut in Tanu Weds Manu (2011) and Manikarnika (2019): In Tanu Weds Manu, Kangana nailed the Kanpuria accent, making Tanu’s sass and boldness believable. Later, in Manikarnika, her royal tone and diction as Rani Laxmibai added gravitas to the role, earning her appreciation.

Ranveer Singh in Gully Boy (2019): Ranveer completely transformed himself into Murad, a Dharavi-based aspiring rapper. His Mumbai street slang and diction were so natural that audiences praised him for sounding like a true local.