Supriya Pathak, Simi Garewal, Tabu: Iconic Female Antagonists of Bollywood

Bollywood is known for its heroes, but it has also given us some truly scary female villains. From Supriya Pathak in Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Simi Garewal in Karz to Tabu in Andhadhun—these actresses have shown that fear isn’t limited by gender. Their powerful performances broke the usual image of women in Hindi films and made a lasting impact. Take a look...

Supriya Pathak's portrayal of the matriarch Dhankor is a force of nature, embodying both fierce familial loyalty and ruthless cruelty. As the head of her clan, she fiercely opposes the love between Ram and Leela, orchestrating violence and displaying a chilling lack of empathy for those who defy her. Her powerful screen presence and unwavering resolve make her a truly terrifying and formidable villain.

Simi Garewal's portrayal of Kamini is chilling in its elegant ruthlessness. Initially appearing as a sophisticated and devoted wife, she orchestrates her wealthy husband's murder with cold precision for his inheritance. Her icy demeanor and unwavering determination, masked by a veneer of grace, make her a memorable and terrifying villain, especially during the shocking climax.

Breaking away from her bubbly image, Kajol delivered a spine-chilling performance as the obsessive and possessive Isha. Her unrequited love for the protagonist drives her to commit a series of murders to eliminate anyone standing in her way. The revelation of her as the killer, coupled with her intense portrayal of a woman consumed by her desires, earned her critical acclaim and the Filmfare Award for Best Villain.

Tabu's portrayal of Simi is a masterclass in subtle yet menacing villainy. Seemingly an ordinary woman caught in an extraordinary situation after her husband's murder, Simi's calm and calculating nature as she tries to cover her tracks is deeply unsettling. Her willingness to go to any lengths, including further violence, to protect her secrets makes her a disturbingly realistic and terrifying antagonist.

Konkona's portrayal of Diana, a mysterious woman suspected of being a 'daayan' (witch), creates a pervasive sense of dread and unease. Her enigmatic presence, coupled with the unsettling events surrounding her, keeps the audience guessing about her true nature and capabilities. The subtle yet haunting way she embodies the folklore and fear associated with witches makes her a uniquely terrifying villain.