Suniel Shetty, once a powerhouse of action and drama in the 90s and early 2000s, is now banking on his upcoming film Kesari Veer to bring his fading career back to life. Slated for release on May 23, the film comes at a crucial time for the actor, whose last hit dates back more than a decade.
A Career in Decline
Having debuted in 1992 with Balwaan, Suniel Shetty has acted in over 100 films across action, comedy, and drama genres. However, his recent track record paints a grim picture. Since 2009's De Dana Dan—his last film to perform decently—he has delivered 10 consecutive flops, including:
- Pehlawaan – Flop
- 2 Chehare – Flop
- Desi Kattey – Flop
- Koilanchal – Flop
- Enemy – Flop
- Delhi Safari – Flop
- Mere Dost Picture Abhi Baki Hai – Flop
- Loot – Flop
- Thank You – Flop
- Red Alert – Flop
This isn’t the first time Suniel has hit a rough patch. Between 2003 and 2006, he also faced a similar string of commercial failures. However, this current dry spell—spanning over 15 years—has pushed him to the sidelines of mainstream cinema.
Why Kesari Veer Is Crucial
Directed by Prince Dhiman and produced by Kanubhai, Kesari Veer tells the story of a brave warrior named Vegdaji, played by Suniel Shetty. His fierce look and powerful role have sparked some buzz. The film belongs to the historical action genre—something that has seen some success in recent times with audiences appreciating similar themes.
Shetty himself recently acknowledged the struggle, stating, “Our films are loved, but they don't earn.” This makes the commercial performance of Kesari Veer all the more important, especially as he gears up for more prominent roles, including the much-awaited Hera Pheri 3 alongside Akshay Kumar.
Will the Audience Give Him Another Chance?
In today’s climate, even well-made films struggle at the box office. But Kesari Veer may resonate due to its patriotic undertone and Suniel Shetty's fanbase from his golden era. The question is: will audiences turn up to support a comeback, or is this another chapter in a career that has seen more downs than ups in recent years?
