Renowned as one of Bollywood's leading stars, Kareena Kapoor Khan's (born on September 20, 1980) striking looks, acting prowess and captivating presence have made her a global icon. Throughout her career, she has navigated various genres with remarkable versatility, from the gritty protagonist in Refugee to the glamorous Poo in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kareena's willingness to take risks and explore diverse characters showcases her dedication to her craft. Her latest project, The Buckingham Murders, has received critical acclaim, further solidifying her status as a powerhouse in the film industry. Kareena Kapoor Khan Celebrates 25 Years in Bollywood With ‘The Buckingham Murders’—Her First Production Venture.

As Kareena Kapoor Khan celebrates her birthday today, it's the perfect opportunity to spotlight some of her underrated movies that truly deserve recognition. Beyond her iconic roles, Kareena has delivered exceptional portrayals in films that often go unnoticed. Let's check them out below. ‘The Buckingham Murders’ Box Office Verdict – Hit or Flop: Is Kareena Kapoor Khan-Hansal Mehta’s Movie on a Success Path? Find Out!

'Refugee' (2000)  

Kareena Kapoor Khan in Refugee (Photo Credits: YouTube)

Kareena's debut in JP Dutta's Refugee is a masterclass in acting, deserving of all the accolades she received. The film provided her with the perfect platform to showcase her talent, and she seized the opportunity with remarkable skill. Set against the backdrop of Indo-Pakistani war, she delivered a powerful and nuanced portrayal of a character grappling with trauma and displacement. Her performance not only outshone her male co-star, Abhishek Bachchan but also established her as a force to be reckoned with in the Indian film industry. You can watch this film online on Prime Video.

'Chameli' (2003) 

Kareena Kapoor Khan in Chameli (Photo Credits: YouTube)

Chameli, Sudhir Mishra's 2004 film, marked a significant departure from Kareena Kapoor's glamorous roles. In this drama, set over a single night, Kareena portrays Chameli, a street-smart sex worker, navigating the harsh realities of Mumbai's red-light district. She shares a poignant encounter with Aman (Rahul Bose), a wealthy investment banker whose car breaks down in the area. Their unexpected connection challenges societal norms and offers a glimpse into the complexities of human existence. The movie is available to watch on Hotstar and Prime Video.

'Omkara' (2006)

Kareena Kapoor Khan in Omkara (Photo Credits: YouTube)

Kareena's performance in Vishal Bhardwaj's Omkara, a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's Othello, showcased her remarkable talent. She portrays Dolly Mishra, the devoted wife of half-caste bandit Omkara (Ajay Devgn), and navigates a complex web of jealousy and betrayal. Her portrayal is both heartbreaking and inspiring, capturing the character's vulnerability. This 2006 movie can be watched online on JioCinema and Prime Video. Kareena Kapoor Khan Recalls Taimur Asking, ‘Am I Famous?’ After Being Chased by Paparazzi.

'Heroine' (2012) 

Kareena Kapoor Khan in Heroine (Photo Credits: YouTube)

Heroine, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, follows the tumultuous journey of Mahi Arora (Kareena Kapoor Khan), a Bollywood actress struggling to maintain her relevance in the industry. The film offers a candid portrayal of the cutthroat world of showbiz, exploring themes of ambition and betrayal.  The film's social commentary on the industry's treatment of female actresses remains relevant, making it a thought-provoking watch. The flick can be watched online on Prime Video and Apple TV.

'Talaash' (2012)  

Aamir Khan and Kareena Kapoor Khan in Talaash (Photo Credits: YouTube)

Kareena Kapoor delivered a chilling performance in Talaash, a suspenseful thriller co-starring Aamir Khan and Rani Mukerji. As Rosie, a mysterious sex worker caught in a supernatural mystery, Kareena's enigmatic portrayal wowed audiences. Her portrayal of a wronged woman seeking vengeance added a haunting depth to the film, showcasing her versatility as an actress. The movie is streaming online on Netflix, Prime Video and Apple TV.

Indeed, these overlooked gems of Kareena offer a glimpse into the full range of her talent and remind us of her enduring impact on the Indian film industry. Here's wishing a very happy birthday from team LatestLY!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 21, 2024 12:18 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).