Sohum Shah has never been one to follow the crowd. He thrives on challenges, taking on unconventional roles that push the boundaries of storytelling. Whether it was bringing Tumbbad to life against all odds or stepping into deeply layered characters across genres, he has consistently proved his versatility. His latest film, CrazXy, is yet another milestone.
At a time when Bollywood leans heavily on star power and ensemble casts, Sohum took a bold risk—carrying an entire film on his own. Playing Dr. Abhimanyu Sood, a brilliant yet troubled neurosurgeon racing against time to save his kidnapped daughter, he became the heart and soul of CrazXy. The film, packed with tension, action, and emotional depth, rests entirely on his shoulders, making it Bollywood’s first one-hero film. The gamble has paid off—CrazXy has been winning over audiences and proving that strong storytelling and stellar performances matter more than just star-studded lineups.
As he continues to reshape Bollywood’s landscape, here are 9 times Sohum Shah left audiences in awe with his transformative performances.
1. Dr. Abhimanyu Sood – CrazXy (2024)
A film with only one actor carrying the entire story is rare in Bollywood, yet Sohum Shah embraced the challenge with CrazXy. Playing Dr. Abhimanyu Sood, he takes audiences on an intense, heart-pounding journey as a father who must use his medical expertise and razor-sharp instincts to outsmart the forces threatening his daughter’s life. His ability to sustain the film’s tension single-handedly proves his command over performance-driven storytelling. CrazXy is not just a film—it’s a testament to Sohum’s dedication to breaking norms in Indian cinema.
2. Vinayak Rao – Tumbbad (2018)
Sohum’s portrayal of Vinayak Rao remains one of his most celebrated performances. As a man consumed by greed and the dark secrets of a cursed village, he delivered a performance that was raw, intense, and deeply haunting. From depicting Vinayak’s youthful ambition to his eventual descent into obsession, Sohum captured the character’s entire arc with gripping authenticity.
3. Bheema Bharti – Maharani (2021-Present)
In Maharani, Sohum took on the role of Bheema Bharti, a shrewd politician whose journey is filled with power struggles, betrayals, and political maneuvering. He effortlessly blended charisma with an undercurrent of menace, making his character unpredictable and captivating. Whether it was his commanding presence in political rallies or his vulnerable moments behind closed doors, Sohum’s portrayal brought depth to the show’s gripping narrative.
4. Stockbroker – Ship of Theseus (2012)
Sohum’s role in Ship of Theseus was an early indicator of his ability to portray layered characters. Playing a stockbroker forced to confront the moral consequences of his actions, he delivered a subtle yet compelling performance. His ability to internalize conflict and express it through nuanced body language and dialogue made his segment of the film unforgettable.
5. Hemant – Simran (2017)
Even in a film that focused primarily on its lead character, Sohum made his mark as Hemant, the well-meaning yet traditional fiancé of Kangana Ranaut’s Simran. His portrayal was grounded and realistic, making the audience empathize with his perspective while still rooting for Simran’s independence. He proved that even in a supporting role, he could leave a lasting impression.
6. Ajay Mehta – The Big Bull (2021)
As Ajay Mehta, Sohum played the brother of Abhishek Bachchan’s ambitious stock market investor in The Big Bull. While the film focused on its protagonist’s meteoric rise and fall, Sohum’s performance as the skeptical, morally upright brother provided a crucial counterbalance. He embodied the voice of reason, grounding the film’s larger-than-life narrative in emotional authenticity.
7. Officer Parvez Alam – Talvar (2015)
In Talvar, based on the infamous Noida double murder case, Sohum played Officer Parvez Alam, one of the investigating officers. Though the film had an ensemble cast, his performance stood out for its restrained yet powerful execution. As a cop navigating the murky waters of a high-profile case, he brought a sense of realism and conviction that added to the film’s gripping storytelling.
8. Anand Swarnakar – Dahaad (2023)
Sohum Shah took a darker turn with Dahaad, playing Anand Swarnakar, a mysterious and unsettling character. His ability to shift between charm and menace effortlessly made his character all the more chilling. With a restrained yet deeply disturbing performance, he ensured that Anand Swarnakar remained one of the most memorable antagonists in recent times. Dahaad showcased yet another facet of his talent—his ability to embody roles that disturb and intrigue in equal measure.
9. Vikramjeet – Bard of Blood (2019)
In the Netflix espionage thriller Bard of Blood, Sohum played Vikramjeet, a pivotal character in a web of international intrigue. His portrayal added weight to the series, proving that he could seamlessly transition into action-packed narratives. Whether in intense combat sequences or emotionally charged moments, Sohum brought authenticity to Vikramjeet, ensuring that his presence was felt even in a fast-paced, multi-character storyline.
A True Game-Changer in Bollywood
From historical horror to political thrillers, from psychological dramas to crime sagas, Sohum Shah has consistently reinvented himself, proving that versatility isn’t just about playing different roles—it’s about transforming into them. With CrazXy, he has set a new benchmark for solo-driven narratives in Bollywood, proving once again that he isn’t afraid to take risks. As he continues to push boundaries, one thing is certain—Sohum Shah is not just one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors, but also one of its most fearless.
