Hyderabad: As 2024 draws to a close, the year has been a mixed bag for Indian cinema. While some stars achieved monumental success, others chose to stay away from the big screen, either focusing on upcoming projects or taking time off to rejuvenate. Among these are some of the biggest names from Bollywood and South Indian cinema who had no film releases this year. Here's a detailed look at eight such actors, their past achievements, and their upcoming projects.
1. Shah Rukh Khan
2024 marked a rare year of absence for Bollywood's King Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, who delivered two back-to-back blockbusters in 2023 - Pathaan and Jawan and then his hit Dunki. These films collectively redefined box office success, solidifying his position as the undisputed ruler of Bollywood. However, Shah Rukh took a breather in 2024, with no releases on the calendar.
Fans need not despair, as he is currently working on King, an ambitious project that promises to be a cinematic extravaganza. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, King features SRK in the lead role, with Suhana Khan playing a pivotal role and Abhishek Bachchan as the antagonist. The film is slated for a 2025 release, and anticipation is already sky-high.
2. Aamir Khan
Mr Perfectionist Aamir Khan last graced the screen as the lead in Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), a film that received mixed reviews but showcased his commitment to nuanced storytelling. Since then, Aamir has been on a break, with no releases in 2023 or 2024.
The actor is currently prepping for his next project, Sitaare Zameen Par, set to release in 2025. The film is said to be a heartfelt narrative centred around the lives of underprivileged children, echoing the emotional depth of his earlier hit Taare Zameen Par. Aamir's involvement in both acting and production ensures it will be another meticulously crafted masterpiece.
3. Salman Khan
After the success of Tiger 3 in 2023, Salman Khan took a step back in 2024, limiting himself to cameo appearances in Singham Again and Baby John. His absence as a lead actor was notable this year.
Salman, however, is gearing up for Sikandar, set to be released during Eid 2025. Directed by AR Murugadoss, Sikandar stars Rashmika Mandanna as the female lead, marking her first collaboration with Salman. The movie boasts a stellar supporting cast, including Sathyaraj, Prateik Babbar, Kajal Aggarwal, and Sharman Joshi.
4. Ranbir Kapoor
Ranbir Kapoor smashed the box office in 2023 with Animal, a blockbuster that grossed over Rs 900 crore globally. Despite this monumental success, Ranbir had no releases in 2024, choosing instead to focus on his upcoming projects.
The actor is currently working on Ramayana Part 1, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, in which he portrays Lord Ram. The film, scheduled for a 2026 release, is one of the most awaited Indian cinematic ventures. Additionally, Ranbir will also star in Love & War, a romantic war drama expected to be released the same year.