The Khans (Shah Rukh, Salman, Aamir) were mainly associated with romantic, dramatic, and character-driven films, whereas Sunny, Ajay, and Akshay started their careers with or swiftly became linked to action-oriented roles. All of them have participated in various genres of films, including action, romance, and drama, among others.
Let’s examine why the Khans (Shah Rukh, Salman, Aamir) don’t quite possess the same level of action credibility as Sunny Deol, Ajay Devgn, and Akshay Kumar, even though they hold superstar status.
Sunny, Ajay & Akshay began their careers with or quickly became associated with action-heavy roles.
Sunny Deol’s Ghayal, Arjun, Gadar – all renowned for their raw, physical action. Ajay Devgn made his debut in Phool Aur Kaante with memorable stunts; established a serious and intense persona in action films. Akshay Kumar The “Khiladi” of Bollywood, recognized for his martial arts skills, agility, and realistic stunts. Their primary image was centered around action, rather than romance or drama.
The Khans were primarily linked to romantic, dramatic, and character-focused films. Shah Rukh gained popularity with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. Aamir concentrated on films centered around unique concepts, such as Lagaan and Taare Zameen Par. Salman eventually shifted towards action films, but this occurred later in his career, around the time of Wanted (2009) and Dabangg (2010). For them, action was more of a later development rather than an initial inclination.
Akshay Kumar does most of his own stunts and has a martial arts background. Sunny Deol delivered a powerful physique and a character that appealed to a wide audience — he was convincing as an invincible action hero. Ajay Devgn is known for realistic action and intensity; most of his roles require a serious physical presence. Their action looks raw, grounded and physical.
The Khans have often relied on stylized or VFX-heavy action scenes in recent years. Pathaan, Tiger 3, Dhoom 3 — stylish but less harsh. Their body language is stiff and not naturally suited to real-world action (with some exceptions for Salman). They are good at stunts, but not necessarily authentic or intense physical action.
Sunny, Ajay and Akshay have a steady action portfolio. There are many annual action films ranging from street level fights to military roles to cop dramas.
The Khans are into action but not consistently. Aamir: Ghajini, Dhoom 3 – but intermittently. SRK: Ra.One, Pathaan, Jawan – mostly recent ones. Salman: The one with the most action, but many of their hits still seem to be masala or romantic action.
The action is Sunny-Ajay-Akshay’s forte. For the Khans, it is more of an occasional treat.
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