From Masaan to Chhava: Vicky Kaushal marks a decade of cinematic brilliance in Bollywood

Although Masaan may have signalled his arrival, Meghna Gulzar's Raazi (2018) was the film that brought Vicky to a larger audience.

Vicky Kaushal stands tall today as one of the most impactful and respected actors of his generation. From a humble debut in the poignant 2015 film Masaan to delivering one of 2025’s highest-grossing films with Chhaava, Vicky’s journey is a testament to relentless dedication, artistic integrity, and quiet perseverance.

As he completes ten years in the industry, it’s the perfect moment to revisit the milestones that defined his rise—from a promising newcomer to a powerhouse performer with an enduring fanbase.

The Breakthrough: Masaan and the Birth of a Star

Masaan was Vicky's cinematic debut, and it was nothing short of revolutionary. His portrayal of Deepak, a young man from a lower caste who must deal with love, grief, and social expectations, was nuanced and vulnerable.

Vicky won people over with restraint, depth, and realism rather than the usual heroics of popular film. Critics and moviegoers alike took notice of the performance right away, making him the spokesperson for purposeful, content-driven filmmaking.

Rising Through the Ranks: Raazi and Early Recognition

Although Masaan may have signalled his arrival, Meghna Gulzar's Raazi (2018) was the film that brought Vicky to a larger audience. Vicky, who shared screen time with Alia Bhatt, played Iqbal, a Pakistani army officer torn between duty and love, with a quiet strength. He maintained his position with quiet dignity, solidifying his reputation as an actor who inhabits and lives his role rather than merely playing it. The groundwork for the future was established by these early performances.

Becoming a National Icon: Uri to Chhaava

With Uri: The Surgical Strike, Vicky Kaushal received widespread acclaim in 2019. He gave a performance that defined his career as Major Vihaan Shergill, full of passion and patriotism. In addition to being a box office success, the movie gave the nation one of its most recognisable catchphrases: "How's the josh?" At that point, it was evident that Vicky was a major star with widespread appeal rather than merely a showman to watch.

In Chhaava, Vicky assumes the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, entering a stately historical drama. The film showcases the full range of his capabilities, proving once again that he can seamlessly shift from war hero to historical royalty without missing a beat.

Versatility is His Superpower

Vicky Kaushal's unmatched versatility is one of his best qualities. Vicky effortlessly transitions into roles, whether he's portraying a stoic intelligence officer in Raazi, the ferocious Major Vihaan in Uri, or a charming, boy-next-door character in Zara Hatke Zara Bachke.

His recent outing in Bad Newz shows off his comic timing and massy appeal, further emphasizing his adaptability across genres. It’s this dynamic range that continues to set him apart in an industry often limited by typecasting.

The Man Behind the Stardom: Relatable, Rooted, and Respected

Vicky's off-screen persona is equally as adored as his on-screen persona. He has become incredibly relatable due to his laid-back charm, which is demonstrated in his candid interviews and viral Instagram videos, particularly his signature "Punjabi munda" vibe.

Also read: Vicky Kaushal's father Sham Kaushal opens about his stomach cancer journey: 'I wanted to jump from the third floor...'

Viewers see more than just a celebrity; they see someone they know—real, funny, and grounded. Vicky's relatability has also resulted in a huge increase in brand value, as she has been a reliable spokesperson for a number of social campaigns and endorsements.

The Josh is Here to Stay

As Vicky Kaushal marks a decade in the film industry, it is evident that the josh that once sparked his rise to fame has now matured into a steady, enduring fire. With every role, every performance, and every choice, Vicky continues to redefine what it means to be a modern Indian film star.