Today, June 27, 2025, marks the 11th anniversary of the release of "Ek Villain," the romantic action thriller that captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and stellar performances. Sidharth Malhotra, who played the lead role of Guru in the film, has commemorated this milestone by sharing a fan-made video on his social media platforms, expressing his gratitude and appreciation for the continued love the film receives.
"Ek Villain," directed by Mohit Suri and produced by Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor under Balaji Motion Pictures, hit theaters on June 27, 2014. The film starred Sidharth Malhotra, Shraddha Kapoor, and Riteish Deshmukh in pivotal roles. It tells the story of Guru, a hardened criminal whose life takes an unexpected turn when he falls in love with Ayesha (Shraddha Kapoor). Their blissful world is shattered when Ayesha becomes the victim of Rakesh Mahadkar (Riteish Deshmukh), a sadistic serial killer. Driven by vengeance, Guru embarks on a mission to hunt down Rakesh and avenge his wife's death.
The film was a significant turning point in Sidharth Malhotra's career, showcasing his versatility as an actor. After his debut in the romantic comedy "Student of the Year" (2012) and followed by "Hasee Toh Phasee," "Ek Villain" allowed him to delve into a more intense and action-oriented role. His portrayal of Guru, a man torn between love and vengeance, was widely appreciated and solidified his position in Bollywood.
Riteish Deshmukh's portrayal of the antagonist Rakesh Mahadkar was also a standout performance. Known for his comedic roles, Riteish surprised audiences with his chilling and menacing portrayal of a serial killer, earning him critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Shraddha Kapoor, as Ayesha, brought warmth and vulnerability to her character, making her untimely death all the more impactful.
The film's success was further fueled by its exceptional music album, composed by Mithoon, Ankit Tiwari, and the band Soch. The soundtrack featured chart-topping hits like "Galliyan," "Banjaara," "Hamdard," and "Awari," which continue to resonate with audiences even today. "Galliyan," in particular, became an anthem, with its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics capturing the essence of the film's emotional core.
The success of "Ek Villain" led to a sequel, "Ek Villain Returns," which was released in 2022. While the sequel featured a new cast and storyline, Riteish Deshmukh reprised his role as Rakesh Mahadkar in a cameo appearance, much to the delight of fans.
As Sidharth Malhotra celebrates 11 years of "Ek Villain," he is currently involved in several upcoming projects. He will be seen in the romantic comedy "Param Sundari" alongside Janhvi Kapoor, and in the folk thriller "Vvan – Force of the Forest" co-starring Sara Ali Khan. He is also reportedly in discussions to join Saif Ali Khan in "Race 4." Additionally, Karan Johar envisions Sidharth as a perfect fit for an upcoming film directed by Sharan Sharma, known for "Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl" and "Mr. & Mrs. Mahi". This human drama promises to be their sixth collaboration.
