10 Most Badass Old People Characters in Indian Movies
Old people are wiser, kinder, and sometimes have more witty responses than you could imagine! In Indian movies, older people are often shown as supporting pillars of the protagonists. But, aren’t they the protagonists and they could have their moments too, right? Well, many Indian films have had these oldies who shine with their quirkiness, and charm that could give youngsters a tough competition. Nope, we’re not talking about our ‘aadarshvaadi’ Alok Nath ji, but others who have a funny side that they show unabashedly and we love it! So, check out 10 such badass old people characters in Indian movies.
1. Dadi | Badhaai Ho
The most relatable dadi ever shown in a Bollywood movie! Dadi played by the veteran actress Surkeha Sikri won several awards. She was a stern dadi who loved bad-mouthing her daughter-in-law (pretty typical!). But, when she came to know about her middle-aged son and daughter-in-law being pregnant again, she
2. Subbu | Thalamuraigal
Subbu, a retired but brilliant Tamil teacher, is estranged from his son because he married a woman from another religion. He is haughty, conservative, and narrow-minded. However, years later, when his grandson came to live with him— he saw and listened to what his grandson had to say, which ultimately changed his perspective. Subbu learned how to become more inclusive and understand how to change with time.
3. Dattatraya Vakharia | 102 Not Out
Amitabh Bachchan played the interesting role of a 102-year-old man and father of a 75-year-old son who thinks that he is ‘old’ and needs to retire now. But, his father still loves his life! It was such a refreshing movie to watch. The stark contrast of seeing a 102-year-old man cheerful and a 75-year-old man tired and angry with life. He helped his son regain his interest in life and made him realize that youthfulness and energy are all but ideas of our mind, isn’t he right?
4. Anappara Acharia | Godfather
Philomena, the talented veteran actress played the role of a fiery old woman named Anappara. She portrayed one of the strongest roles of an old woman. She had a tooth-and-nail fight with her brother. This film was an intriguing battle between siblings and the most engaging family feuds shown in a movie. If you haven’t watched this one yet, this is surely a sign!
Image Source: YouTube
5. Biji Dadi | Vicky Donor
Biji dadi is a popular open-minded dadi who is as badass and inspiring as she can get! And Kamlesh Gill, the actress who played the character is equally popular and her popularity rose after Vicky Donor’s release. Her character received a lot of love for being outgoing, bold, and someone who lives by her terms. She inspires and instills women to be strong, opinionated, fearless, and embrace themselves as they are. Who wouldn’t love her?
6. Oliver Twist | #Home
A heart-touching story about self-love, and compassion towards our older generations. Sometimes, when they are telling you an incredible story of the past— it could be true! While his family comes to learn about how heroic Oliver was during his times, Oliver also learns how to be confident and love himself after he gains knowledge of new technology.
7. Hoovaiah | Mathad Mathadu Mallige
Sometimes, experienced people are the strongest. Hooviah was one such old man who was a flower seller and the zamindar of Jennu Koppa village. Things were going great, but one day an MNC bought the whole village for mining despite protests. So, the whole village got scared, gave up, and started moving out. Except for Hooviah, he did not give up and fought against the powerful system to protect his people and his homeland.
Image Source: YouTube
8. Amarjeet Kapoor or Daadu | Kapoor & Sons
Rishi Kapoor played this unforgettable character of a 92-year-old lovable dadu who fills a room with happiness the moment he enters. Many times, we have seen our grandparents using their old age and health issues as a reason to get their kids married or have a baby. But, this witty grandad used these reasons to bring his dysfunctional family together so that they could resolve their long-standing issues and live on with their lives.
9. Ananthapadmanabha P | Sarkari Hiriya Prathamika Shale, Kasaragod
When most old men were advised to retire and take care of their garden plants, Ananthapadmanabha decided to fight for people’s good. Anantha was a social activist and a criminology teacher who fought for the students and their education rights when the govt decided to shut down a local govt school. His zeal to fight for people and follow the motto of ‘live and let live’
10. Fredie | Finding Fanny
Naseeruddin Shah played the role of a witty and jolly postman in ‘Finding Fanny’ that shone throughout the film. His character shows how we can take life less seriously and learn to take a ‘chill pill’ no matter what we do or where we are in life. Naseeruding, being a talent powerhouse, made this character iconic and worth remembering.
So, these were some of the best and most iconic badass old people characters that were portrayed in some noteworthy Indian movies. Any movies and characters that you think we missed? Tell us in the comments. And never forget, old is gold!