Every year, GQ India rolls out the red carpet for the men who define excellence, charisma, and influence in cinema. These leading men are not only game-changers in their craft but also pop culture icons whose impact resonates far beyond the silver screen. This annual tradition celebrates the most popular, successful, and bankable male superstars of the year—actors who dominate both box offices and hearts.
Let’s take a look at the phenomenal talents who have earned this coveted recognition in the last three years:
2022: Allu Arjun
With two decades of cinematic brilliance under his belt, Allu Arjun has always been a force to reckon with in Indian cinema. But 2022 marked a seismic shift in his stardom, fueled by his performance in Pushpa: The Rise – Part 1. The film catapulted him to global fame, making him a household name beyond Indian borders. Whether it’s his intense dramatic portrayal or the trendsetting dance moves that broke the internet, Allu Arjun became a phenomenon. Fans worldwide adopted his swagger, particularly his iconic hook steps and gestures. With Pushpa: The Rule on the horizon, the Allu Arjun hysteria is far from over. He’s not just transcending boundaries; he’s rewriting the rules of what it means to be a global superstar.
2023: Sunny Deol
In a year when questions loomed over the box-office clout of legacy stars, Sunny Deol delivered a cinematic masterstroke. Gadar 2, the sequel to his iconic Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, shattered expectations and broke box office records, becoming the most unexpected blockbuster of the year. Four decades after his debut, Sunny Deol demonstrated that his emotional connection with audiences remains steadfast. His portrayal of Tara Singh once again struck a chord, uniting generations of fans who flocked to theatres to relive the magic. Deol’s triumph in 2023 wasn’t just a box office win—it was a heartfelt reminder of the timeless bond between a star and his audience.
2024: Kartik Aaryan
This year, Kartik Aaryan proved that he’s not just a nationwide sensation but a formidable leading man. Riding high on the success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, which grossed over ₹400 crores globally, Kartik officially entered the elite ₹200 crore club as its youngest member. His versatility shone even brighter with Chandu Champion, where he delivered a critically acclaimed performance in a physically transformative role. Kartik’s consistent ability to strike gold at the box office—while simultaneously earning critical applause—makes him a true all-rounder. From romantic comedies like Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety to emotionally charged dramas like Satya Prem Ki Katha, Kartik’s filmography is as diverse as his fan base. Kartik’s fandom has also reached unheard heights. This frenzy highlights the unique connection he has cultivated with his audience, cementing his position as a generational icon.
From Allu Arjun’s cultural wave to Sunny Deol’s timeless legacy and Kartik Aaryan’s meteoric rise, these GQ Leading Men exemplify the evolving definitions of superstardom and inspire millions worldwide. Here’s to celebrating these icons who remind us why we love the movies.
