Taapsee Pannu is a name that often gets overlooked despite her incredible talent and the wide range of roles she’s taken on in her career.
From her debut in 2010 to her impressive performances across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films, she has carved out a niche as an actress who doesn’t shy away from challenging roles. But why is she still considered underrated, despite her consistent work in the industry.
Taapsee’s journey began in 2010 with the Telugu film Jhummandi Naadam. But it was her Tamil debut in Aadukalam (2011) that really put her on the map. Playing an Anglo-Indian girl caught in a complicated love story, she impressed critics with her raw and nuanced performance. Even though some of her early films didn’t do well at the box office, Taapsee’s acting always stood out.
In 2013, Taapsee stepped into Bollywood with Chashme Baddoor, a fun comedy that didn’t get rave reviews but was a commercial success. However, it was her role in Baby (2015) that really changed things. Playing a smart and fearless undercover agent, she made it clear that she wasn’t just another actress—she was here to bring depth and substance to her roles.
One of the things that sets Taapsee apart is her commitment to playing strong, complex characters. Whether it’s in Thappad (2020), where she fights against domestic violence, or in Badla (2019), where she plays a woman out for revenge, Taapsee’s roles are never superficial. She’s always pushing boundaries, and her performances continue to be a refreshing change from the usual characters we see on screen.
In addition to acting, Taapsee has taken on the role of producer. With Blurr (2022), a psychological thriller, she ventured into production, proving that she’s committed to creating meaningful, original content. While the film didn’t perform well at the box office, it showcased her determination to take risks and contribute to storytelling in different ways.
In 2023, Taapsee got the opportunity to work with none other than Shah Rukh Khan in Dunki, directed by Rajkumar Hirani. Her role as Manu, a Punjabi woman with dreams of moving to England, was well-received, and the film turned out to be a huge commercial success. Dunki grossed over ₹450 crore, making it her highest-grossing film, and earned her a third Filmfare nomination.
Taapsee’s career in 2024 is as exciting as ever. She’s reprised her role in Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba and starred in Khel Khel Mein, a film where she took on a lighter, more comedic role. Despite the film’s box office disappointment, her performance stood out. Looking ahead, she has a sci-fi film Alien lined up, which will allow her to explore new genres and continue to surprise audiences with her versatility.
Taapsee Pannu is one of those actresses whose talent deserves far more recognition than it gets. Despite being underrated, Taapsee continues to make bold, exciting choices that set her apart in the industry. It’s time her talent received the attention it truly deserves.
