In Bollywood, comparisons between actors are common, but when two successful stars are married, fans and the media tend to keep a close eye on their professional journeys. One such couple that always garners attention is Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. Both actors are among the top stars in the industry, but their paths to success have been quite different.
While both are delivering hit films, there’s a notable difference between their careers. Ranbir Kapoor has been a part of some of the biggest blockbusters, but many of his hits have included ensemble casts. On the other hand, Alia Bhatt has made a name for herself by carrying films almost entirely on her shoulders. Let’s break down their successes and see how each actor has carved their niche in Bollywood.
Ranbir Kapoor’s Hits: Powered by Star Ensembles
Ranbir Kapoor has always been praised for his acting talent, but many of his biggest films have featured a strong supporting cast. His 2016 film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, directed by Karan Johar, was a major hit, earning over ₹250 crores globally. While Ranbir played the lead, the movie’s success was boosted by stellar performances from Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and a memorable cameo from Shah Rukh Khan. Pakistani star Fawad Khan also played a significant role, adding to the movie’s star power.
In 2023, Ranbir starred in Animal, his highest-grossing film to date, which earned over ₹900 crores. However, the film wasn’t just about Ranbir. Bobby Deol’s role as the villain stole many scenes, while veteran actor Anil Kapoor’s portrayal of Ranbir’s father was widely appreciated. Rashmika Mandanna and Tripti Dimri also added depth to the story. So, while Ranbir’s talent was on full display, Animal was very much a team effort.
Ranbir’s upcoming project, Ramayan, is also expected to feature a large ensemble cast, continuing the trend of him being part of star-studded films.
Alia Bhatt’s Rise as a Solo Performer
In contrast to Ranbir, Alia Bhatt has established herself as a solo performer, often carrying films on her own. She started her career with ensemble films like Student of the Year, but it was with movies like Raazi and Gangubai Kathiawadi that she truly proved her mettle as a leading lady.
In Gangubai Kathiawadi, Alia took on a challenging role at a young age, portraying a powerful woman with grace and intensity. The film, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, was made on a budget of around ₹100-150 crores and went on to gross over ₹209 crores worldwide. Alia’s performance was the driving force behind the film’s success, with many calling it her career-best. Unlike Ranbir, Alia didn’t need a star-studded cast to make the film work—she was the main attraction.
Even earlier, in films like Raazi and Dear Zindagi, Alia showcased her ability to carry complex and layered roles without needing a big supporting cast. She has shown time and again that she can take risks, and more often than not, those risks pay off.
Alia’s Upcoming Solo Projects
Alia continues to focus on films where she is the centerpiece. She is set to star in Jigra, which has already created buzz and is expected to be a hit. There’s also excitement around Alpha, part of the YRF Spy Universe, which could be another feather in her cap. Industry insiders believe Alpha could cross ₹500 crores at the box office, further cementing her status as a solo performer.
Why Ranbir’s Films Rely on Ensemble Casts
One reason why Ranbir’s films often feature large casts could be the kind of roles he chooses. He often gravitates towards multi-layered, ensemble stories that require the presence of other strong actors. While this doesn’t diminish his talent, it does highlight the fact that his biggest hits have come with the support of an equally strong cast.
Meanwhile, Alia’s choices have set her apart as someone who isn’t afraid to take on roles that revolve entirely around her character. This ability to carry a film solo has given her a unique standing in Bollywood, where female leads often don’t get the same opportunities as their male counterparts.
Different Approaches, Equal Success
While both Ranbir and Alia are undoubtedly talented, their paths to success are different. Ranbir Kapoor’s success often comes from ensemble projects that feature a mix of strong performances, while Alia Bhatt is carving out her own space as a solo powerhouse. Whether one method is better than the other is subjective, but it’s clear that both actors are thriving in their own way.
With each having an exciting slate of films ahead, it will be interesting to see how their careers continue to evolve and how they maintain their place as two of Bollywood’s biggest stars.
