6 Kriti Kharbanda films to watch before Rana Naidu Season 2 premieres

The highly anticipated second season of Rana Naidu is set to debut on Netflix on June 13, 2025, and fans are getting increasingly excited about Kriti Kharbanda's comeback in a daring new character. The actor, who is famous for her adaptability and effortless charisma, is getting ready to return to the violent underworld. It is worthwhile to rewatch some of her most iconic performances in different languages before we witness her play a more sinister and edgier character in the thrilling series. Here are a few films that showcase Kriti's remarkable versatility on screen: touching romances, amusing comedies, and dramatic thrillers.

Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana (2017)

The romantic drama that starred Kriti and Rajkummar Rao was a watershed moment in her Bollywood career; it dealt with complex themes of love, social pressure, and individual ambition. An ambitious public servant named Aarti Shukla, played by Kriti, must decide whether to put her romance or her ambitions first. Her subtle portrayal of the character's evolution from a naïve lover into a strong, independent woman earned her high praise for her emotionally mature performance.

Kriti excels in this romantic comedy, which also functions as a societal critique.

Googly (2013)

Among Kriti's most financially successful Kannada films, Googly (directed by Pawan Wadeyar and starring Yash) is still going strong. She brings to life the sophisticated, self-assured woman Swathi, who clashes with the charming, brazen Sharath. Thanks to Kriti's natural charisma and the scorching chemistry she had with Yash, the film was a smashing success.

Featuring Kriti's stunning performance as a mainstream entertainer, this light-hearted romantic comedy makes a wonderful impression.

Taish (2020)

Kriti co-starred with Pulkit Samrat, Harshvardhan Rane, and Jim Sarbh in the elegantly staged vengeance drama directed by Bejoy Nambiar. Secrets and violence divide two families in this film, which made its debut on ZEE5 as both a feature and a series. Aarfa, played by Kriti, is a woman caught in a vicious cycle of anger and grief as she struggles to remember her history.

Unlike her typical upbeat roles, Kriti gives an emotionally powerful performance in this grimy, action-packed story.

14 Phere (2021)

This unusual social drama about love and rebellion starred Vikrant Massey and Kriti in its ZEE5 original, directed by Devanshu Singh. Kriti breathed new life into the role of Aditi, a free-spirited lady who defies social conventions. The film's odd premise—planning two fictitious weddings to appease both families—was entertaining, and Kriti's comic timing added to its charm.

The film was an entertaining romantic comedy, featuring a plot that progresses and a lovely Kriti as its protagonist.

Tirupathi Express (2014)

This film, which was a Kannada remake of the smash success Venkatadri Express in Telugu, offered Kriti yet another opportunity to star in the South Indian films. Prarthana, the character she portrays, is a woman whose life takes a dramatic turn when she is mistaken for someone else, her belongings are stolen, and a relationship unexpectedly blossoms. Kriti stands out with her confident performance, even though the film is filled with slapstick humour.

The actor demonstrates her ability to effortlessly adapt to diverse cultural tastes through a light-hearted, family-friendly performance.

Mr. Nookayya (2012)

Among Kriti's early Telugu films, Mr. Nookayya had Manoj Manchu and a meatier role for Kriti. Anuradha, a bank manager, is entangled in a perilous web of treachery, betrayal, and survival, and she plays the role well. Kriti is able to shed the mould of a stereotypical romantic heroine in this action-packed suspense film.

In this daring thriller, Kriti leaves her comfort zone to portray a woman defying all odds.

Season 2 of Rana Naidu will premiere on Netflix on June 13, 2025, and Kriti Kharbanda will be appearing in a whole new role.