From Shah Rukh Khan, Hrithik Roshan to Priyanka Chopra: Actors who brought the 'royal' to the big screen

The Indian film industry has a long history of producing extraordinary artists and stories. Many talented performers have appeared in films over the years, bringing to life some of India's most storied historical figures. These performers have not only amused viewers but also taught them about the history and culture of the country. These performers have made an impression on viewers with their portrayals of bold royalty in India and the Mughal Empire.

Let's take a look at the performers who made an indelible mark on viewers. These actors, from Shah Rukh Khan as King Ashoka to Ranveer Singh as Allauddin Khilji, have given us performances that will live long in our memories.

Shah Rukh Khan is a legendary figure in Bollywood. In the 2001 film Asoka, he portrayed King Ashoka. Santosh Sivan not only directed but also wrote the film. The movie was a biopic of King Ashoka, the Mauryan Empire's last monarch. Many of us learned about King Ashoka, his accomplishments, and his challenges thanks to Shahrukh Khan's excellent performance as the king. The actor's performance was so lifelike that it stayed with us.

Ranveer Singh portrayed the cruel Sultan of Delhi, Allauddin Khilji, in the 2018 period epic Padmaavat. The poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi served as inspiration for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's adaptation of the work. Ranveer Singh's performance as the ruthless sultan garnered him multiple honours and critical acclaim. To fully immerse himself in the role, Ranveer spent two months alone in a dark room. He not only went on a strict chicken and meat diet, but he also practised the talk with the same merciless look. His portrayal of a villain earned him not just the adoration of his admirers but also their respect for the skill with which he approached the part.

In the upcoming 2020 film Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior, Ajay Devgn portrayed the heroic Maratha warrior Tanaji Malusare. Om Raut drew his inspiration for this movie from Tanaji, who fought alongside Shivaji Maharaj in numerous wars. The film's success can be attributed in large part to Ajay Devgn's turn as Tanaji. The actor hopes to one day portray this part.

In the 2008 film Jodhaa Akbar, Hrithik Roshan portrayed Emperor Akbar, one of the greatest Mughal emperors. Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker told the tale of Akbar and the Rajput princess Jodhaa. Hrithik Roshan's portrayal of Akbar was so well received that he won a slew of prizes. To get into character, the actor studied swordsmanship and went through rigorous training.

In the 2015 film Bajirao Mastani, Priyanka Chopra portrayed Kashibai, Bajirao's first wife. The life of the Maratha warrior Bajirao and his romance with Mastani served as inspiration for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film. Priyanka Chopra's portrayal of Kashibai was lauded, and the actress won multiple honours for her work. Priyanka was a superb visual representation of Kashibai, and her film lines became a hit.