Not just Kajol in The Trial: Bollywood actresses who nailed it as lawyers on screen

In the vast and ever-evolving world of Bollywood cinema, certain roles demand exceptional talent, versatility, and the ability to portray characters with depth and conviction. One such challenging and intellectually stimulating role is that of a lawyer. Over the years, several remarkable Bollywood actresses have taken on this formidable task and delivered stellar performances that left an indelible mark on the audience. While Kajol's recent portrayal of a lawyer in 'The Trail' garnered much attention, let's explore the powerful performances of other leading ladies who have flawlessly essayed the role of lawyers and earned accolades for their impeccable acting skills.

1. Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in 'Jazbaa' (2015):

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's remarkable comeback to the silver screen was marked by her powerful portrayal of Anuradha Verma, a skilled and determined lawyer. 'Jazbaa' revolves around Anuradha's fight to save her kidnapped daughter by defending a convict. Rai's intensity and emotional depth in her performance captivated the audience, showcasing her versatility as an actress and reminding everyone of her acting prowess.

2. Rani Mukerji in 'Veer-Zaara' (2004):

In the epic romantic drama 'Veer-Zaara', Rani Mukerji essayed the role of Saamiya Siddiqui, a Pakistani lawyer determined to reunite an Indian Air Force officer, Veer Pratap Singh (played by Shah Rukh Khan), with his long-lost love. Mukerji's performance as the steadfast lawyer struck a perfect balance between sensitivity and determination, making her character an integral part of the film's emotional core.

3. Kareena Kapoor Khan in 'Aitraaz' (2004):

Kareena Kapoor Khan portrayed the character of Priya, a junior lawyer in 'Aitraaz', where she finds herself defending her husband against charges of sexual harassment. Kapoor's portrayal of a young lawyer navigating through a complex legal battle showcased her growth as an actress and her ability to hold her own amidst seasoned actors. Her performance was confident and poised, making it a memorable role in her career.

4. Taapsee Pannu in 'Mulk' (2018):

Taapsee Pannu's performance as Aarti Mohammed, a defense lawyer in 'Mulk', was widely praised for its brilliance and emotional depth. The film explores themes of religious harmony and patriotism while addressing societal prejudices. Pannu's portrayal of the fierce and determined lawyer brought authenticity and realism to her character, earning her accolades from critics and audiences alike.

5. Yami Gautam in 'Batti Gul Meter Chalu' (2018):

In 'Batti Gul Meter Chalu', Yami Gautam played the role of Gulnaar, a lawyer fighting against the corrupt power system and advocating for justice. Gautam's portrayal of the determined and principled lawyer was well-received, adding substance to the film's social message.

In a nutshell, the realm of Bollywood has witnessed several powerhouse performances by actresses who brought life to the characters of lawyers on screen. From Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's intensity to Rani Mukerji's emotional depth, these actresses have left an indelible impression with their stellar portrayals. Additionally, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Taapsee Pannu, and Yami Gautam have contributed significantly to the portrayal of strong and determined female lawyers, further enriching the cinematic landscape with their exceptional talent. 

Each of these performances stands as a testament to the talent and dedication of these leading ladies, leaving an indelible impression on audiences and enriching the cinematic landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, one can only anticipate more such powerful portrayals in the realm of legal dramas, enriching the tapestry of Indian cinema.

Also read: Shah Rukh Khan and his heroic roles: Saving lives on the silver screen 

About the author: Chandragupta is part human brain, part generative AI. The former provides intellect while the latter does the heavy lifting of an artificial neural network. The name, if you haven’t already worked it out, is a backronym of ChatGPT.