Which Indian Actor Has Played The Most Number Of Roles In A Film? Check Details Here!

Did you know an Indian actor holds the record for playing the most roles in a single film? Johnson George amazed everyone by portraying 45 distinct characters in the Malayalam movie Aaranu Njan (2018), a feat that earned him global recognition. 

Kamal Haasan followed closely with his iconic performance in Dasavathaaram (2008), where he brought 10 unique characters to life, ranging from a 12th-century priest to a modern scientist. 

Sanjeev Kumar showcased his versatility in Naya Din Nai Raat (1974), playing 9 roles, each representing an emotion from the Navarasa. 

Govinda, known for his comedic timing, played six quirky characters in Hadh Kar Di Aapne (2000). Tamil legend Sivaji Ganesan also made his mark with 9 unforgettable roles in the classic Navarathri (1964).

In this article, we’ll explore these extraordinary performances, highlighting the immense talent and hard work that go into mastering multiple roles in a single film.

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List of Top Indian Actors Who Played Multiple Roles in a Single Film

Johnson George is one of the finest Indian actors who holds the record for playing the most roles in a single film. 

He achieved this remarkable feat by portraying 45 distinct characters in the Malayalam film Aaranu Njan, which was released in March 2018. This accomplishment was officially recognised by the Guinness World Records on September 12, 2018.

Source: IMDb

1. Johnson George

Johnson George holds the record for the most roles played by an actor in a single film, with an astonishing 45 characters in the Malayalam movie Aaranu Njan, released in 2018. 

Directed by PR Unnikrishnan, this fantasy film showcases George's versatility as he embodies various historical figures, including Mahatma Gandhi, Jesus Christ, and Leonardo Da Vinci. 

His performance was officially recognised by the Guinness World Records, highlighting his unique ability to portray such a wide range of characters within a single narrative. 

This remarkable achievement has made him a notable figure in Indian cinema for pushing the boundaries of acting.

2. Priyanka Chopra

Priyanka Chopra portrayed 12 distinct roles in the 2009 film What's Your Raashee?. 

This romantic comedy, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, is based on the concept of astrology and features Chopra as twelve different women, each representing a zodiac sign. 

The film explores themes of love and compatibility through these varied characters, showcasing Chopra's range as an actress. 

Her ability to switch between diverse personalities not only highlights her acting skills but also contributes to the film's narrative depth, making it a unique entry in her illustrious career.

3. Kamal Haasan

Kamal Haasan is renowned for his performance in Dasavathaaram, where he played 10 roles in 2008. 

This Tamil film, directed by K.S. Ravikumar, features Haasan as various characters across different timelines, including a 10th-century priest and a modern-day American politician. 

The film's complex narrative intertwines these characters' lives and showcases Haasan's exceptional versatility and commitment to his craft. 

His ability to seamlessly transition between roles has earned him critical acclaim and solidified his status as one of India's finest actors.

4. Sanjeev Kumar

Sanjeev Kumar made waves in Indian cinema by playing 9 roles in the 1974 film Naya Din Nayi Raat. 

This movie is a remake of the Tamil classic Navarathri, where Kumar depicted various characters representing the nine emotions (navarasa). 

His performances were not only entertaining but also showcased his depth as an actor capable of conveying complex emotions through distinct characters. 

This landmark role remains one of his most celebrated achievements and highlights his significant contribution to Indian cinema.

5. Govinda

In the 2000 comedy Hadh Kar Di Aapne, Govinda showcased his comedic prowess by taking on 6 roles. 

The film revolves around a man who must navigate various family dynamics and misunderstandings, with Govinda portraying multiple family members. 

His ability to switch between these characters adds humour and depth to the storyline, making it a memorable entry in his extensive filmography. 

Govinda's charm and comic timing have made him a beloved figure in Bollywood, and this film exemplifies his talent for handling multiple roles with ease.

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6. Kishore Kumar

Kishore Kumar played 5 roles in the 1974 comedy Badhti Ka Naam Dadhi. Known primarily for his singing career, Kumar also made significant contributions to acting with this film. 

Each character he portrayed added to the comedic elements of the story, showcasing his multifaceted talent. 

The film is remembered for its light-hearted humour and musical numbers, further cementing Kishore Kumar's legacy as an entertainer who excelled both on screen and in music.

7. Kader Khan

Kader Khan is celebrated for his performance in Pehla Pehla Pyar (1994), where he played 5 distinct roles. 

This romantic comedy highlights Khan's comedic timing and versatility as he navigates through various situations involving love and relationships. 

His ability to embody diverse characters within a single narrative showcases his talent as an actor and writer, contributing significantly to the film's humour and appeal. 

Khan's impact on Indian cinema remains significant due to his extensive work in both acting and screenwriting.

8. Madhuri Dixit

Madhuri Dixit took on 5 roles in the visually stunning film Gaja Gamini (2000). 

Directed by renowned filmmaker Gulzar, this artistic piece revolves around themes of femininity and creativity. 

Dixit's portrayal of multiple characters allows her to explore different facets of womanhood while showcasing her exceptional dance skills and emotional range. 

Her performances are integral to the film's narrative structure, making it a notable entry in her illustrious career as one of Bollywood's leading actresses.

9. Govardhan Asrani

Govardhan Asrani played 3 roles in the 1980 comedy Hum Nahin Sudhrenge. Known for his comedic flair, Asrani effectively brought humour to each character he portrayed within this light-hearted narrative. 

The film revolves around themes of social issues presented through comedy, allowing Asrani to showcase his unique style of humour that resonates with audiences. 

His contributions to Indian cinema have made him a respected figure known for his memorable comic performances.

10. Amitabh Bachchan

Amitabh Bachchan starred in Mahaan (1983), where he played 3 different roles. 

This action-packed drama revolves around themes of family loyalty and justice, with Bachchan portraying each character's complexities effectively. 

His performances are marked by intensity and charisma, showcasing why he is regarded as one of India's greatest actors. 

Bachchan’s ability to embody diverse roles within a single narrative highlights his profound impact on Indian cinema over decades, solidifying his legendary status among audiences worldwide.

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Who is the Top Actor Worldwide Who Played Multiple Roles in a Single Film?

Mart Sander, an Estonian actor, recently achieved the remarkable feat of playing 48 characters in a single film titled Dr. Sander's Sleep Cure, which was released on January 1, 2024. 

This accomplishment earned him the Guinness World Record for the most characters portrayed by one actor in a single film, surpassing the previous record of 45 held by Indian actor Johnson George in 2018. 

In addition to acting, Sander also wrote and directed the film, which revolves around themes of insomnia and surreal experiences. His innovative approach and versatility have garnered significant attention in the film industry.

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