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'{{short description|Indian actor and politician}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2024}} {{Use Indian English|date=April 2024}} {{Infobox officeholder | image = Sunny Paaji 2024.jpg | caption = Deol in 2024 | office = [[Member of Parliament]], [[Lok Sabha]] | constituency = [[Gurdaspur (Lok Sabha constituency)|Gurdaspur]], [[Punjab, India|Punjab]] | predecessor = [[Sunil Kumar Jakhar]] | successor = | term_start = 18 June 2019 | term_end = | residence = [[Mumbai]], [[Maharashtra]], India | module = {{Infobox person | embed = yes | name = Sunny Deol | birth_name = Ajay Singh Deol | birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1957|10|19}} | birth_place = [[Sahnewal]], [[East Punjab]], India | nickname = | nationality = | citizenship = | occupation = {{hlist|Actor|film director|producer|politician}} | years_active = 1983–present | works = [[Sunny Deol filmography|Full list]] | party = [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] | spouse = {{marriage|Lynda Deol ({{aka}} Pooja Deol)|1984}} | children = 2 | parents = [[Dharmendra]] (father) | relatives = See [[List of Hindi film families#Deol family|Deol family]] | awards = [[List of awards and nominations received by Sunny Deol|Full list]] | signature = }} }} '''Ajay Singh Deol''' (born 19 October 1956), better known as '''Sunny Deol''', is an Indian actor, film director, producer, politician and incumbent [[Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha|Member of Parliament]] in the [[Lok Sabha]], the [[lower house]] of [[Indian Parliament]]. He was elected from the [[Gurdaspur Lok Sabha constituency|Gurdaspur constituency]] of [[Punjab, India|Punjab]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Members : Lok Sabha|url=http://164.100.47.194/Loksabha/Members/MemberBioprofile.aspx?mpsno=5167&lastls=17|access-date=30 August 2020|website=164.100.47.194|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011214529/http://164.100.47.194/Loksabha/Members/MemberBioprofile.aspx?mpsno=5167&lastls=17|url-status=live}}</ref> One of the highest grossing actors of Indian cinema,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hungama |first=Bollywood |title=Highest Cumulative Box Office Collection by Actor - Bollywood Hungama |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/highest-cumulative-box-office-collection-actor/ |access-date=2 April 2024 |language=en}}</ref> he has worked in [[Sunny Deol filmography|more than 90]] [[Hindi]] films in a career spanning over four decades and is particularly known for his angry action hero persona.<ref name="Angry5Deol">{{cite news|title=5 of Sunny Deol's 'Angry Young Man' avatars that can still make us 'Ghayal Once Again'|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-5-of-sunny-deol-s-angry-young-man-avatars-that-can-still-make-us-ghayal-once-again-2174336|date = 5 February 2016|access-date = 4 June 2022|publisher=DNAIndia}}</ref><ref name="top90Star">{{Cite news|title=When Salman Khan said he piggybacked on Sunny Deol if he felt gadbad in his career|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/celebrities/story/when-salman-khan-said-he-piggybacked-on-sunny-deol-if-he-felt-gadbad-in-his-career-on-tuesday-trivia-1866627-2021-10-19|date = 19 October 2021|access-date = 4 June 2022|publisher=IndiaToday}}</ref> Deol has won [[List of awards and nominations received by Sunny Deol|several awards]] including two [[National Film Awards]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=40th nff 1993|date=9 March 2016|url=http://dff.nic.in/2011/40th_nff_1993.pdf|access-date=30 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309053748/http://dff.nic.in/2011/40th_nff_1993.pdf|archive-date=9 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=22 June 2017|title=27 years of Ghayal: Sunny Deol film succeeded despite clash with Aamir-Madhuri's Dil|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/27-years-of-ghayal-sunny-deol-film-succeeded-despite-clash-with-aamir-madhuri-s-dil/story-ndhnmXcrY5KsuTtM8YzgyJ.html|access-date=30 August 2020|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|archive-date=30 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330070508/https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/27-years-of-ghayal-sunny-deol-film-succeeded-despite-clash-with-aamir-madhuri-s-dil/story-ndhnmXcrY5KsuTtM8YzgyJ.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and two [[Filmfare Awards]].<ref name="filmfare 1953 to 2020">{{Cite web|title=Filmfare Awards Winners From 1953 to 2020|url=https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners|access-date=30 August 2020|website=filmfare.com|language=en|archive-date=4 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180204095338/https://www.filmfare.com/awards/filmfare-awards/winners|url-status=dead}}</ref> The elder son of actor [[Dharmendra]], Deol made his acting debut opposite newcomer [[Amrita Singh]] in the romantic drama ''[[Betaab]]'' (1983), a major commercial success.<ref>{{cite news|title=The Nominations&nbsp;– 1982 |url=http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/367131.cms |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708212739/http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/367131.cms |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 July 2012 |publisher=filmfareawards.indiatimes.com |access-date=15 December 2011 }}</ref> He had further box-office hits in action films such as ''[[Arjun (1985 film)|Arjun]]'' (1985), ''[[Paap Ki Duniya]]'' (1988) and ''[[Tridev]]'' (1989), and gained wider recognition for his portrayal of a boxer accused of murder in [[Rajkumar Santoshi]]'s ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]'' (1990), winning the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]]<ref name="filmfare 1953 to 2020" /> and the [[National Film Award – Special Jury Award (Feature Film)]].<ref>{{cite news|title=The Winners&nbsp;– 1990|url=http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/articleshow/368594.cms|publisher=filmfareawards.indiatimes.com|access-date=15 December 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120710185851/http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/articleshow/368594.cms|archive-date=10 July 2012}}</ref> His portrayal of a volatile lawyer in Santoshi's crime drama ''[[Damini]]'' (1993) won him the [[National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor]]<ref>{{Cite web|title=40thNationalAwards|url=http://dff.nic.in/images/Documents/77_40thNfacatalogue.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200725214037/http://dff.nic.in/images/Documents/77_40thNfacatalogue.pdf|archive-date=25 July 2020}}</ref> and the [[Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor]].<ref name="filmfare 1953 to 2020" /> He also starred in ''[[Darr]]'' (1993), ''[[Jeet (1996 film)|Jeet]]'' (1996), ''[[Ghatak: Lethal|Ghatak]]'' (1996), and ''[[Ziddi (1997 film)|Ziddi]]'' (1997). Deol had his biggest commercial successes in the period action films ''[[Border (1997 film)|Border]]'' (1997) and {{Lang|hi-latn|[[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha]]}} (2001). The latter was the highest-grossing Hindi film to that point.<ref>{{cite web|title=Box Office India|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=127&catName=MjAwMC0yMDA5|access-date=28 June 2011|archive-date=23 July 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120723203502/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=127&catName=MjAwMC0yMDA5|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Box Officex|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=207&catName=MjAwMQ==|access-date=28 June 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014132444/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=207&catName=MjAwMQ%3D%3D|archive-date=14 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=The Nominations&nbsp;– 2001|url=http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/368737.cms|publisher=www.filmfareawards.indiatimes.com|access-date=15 December 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708020250/http://filmfareawards.indiatimes.com/articleshow/articleshow/368737.cms|archive-date=8 July 2012}}</ref> He subsequently starred with his father and younger brother, [[Bobby Deol]], in the drama ''[[Apne]]'' (2007) and the comedy ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana]]'' (2011).<ref name="Apne">{{cite news|title=Apne|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-01-09/news-interviews/28357801_1_film-yamla-pagla-deewana-yamla-pagla-deewana|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708073549/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-01-09/news-interviews/28357801_1_film-yamla-pagla-deewana-yamla-pagla-deewana|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 July 2012|access-date=29 June 2011|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|date=1 January 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Hits 2011|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=108&catName=QUxMIElORElB|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|access-date=26 July 2011|archive-date=27 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121227120140/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=108&catName=QUxMIElORElB|url-status=live}}</ref> After more than a decade of decline, he made a career comeback by reprising his role in ''[[Gadar 2]]'' (2023), which became the highest-grossing film of his career and the [[List of highest-grossing Hindi films|sixth highest-grossing Hindi film of all-time]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Gadar 2 Box Office Collection Day 2: Sunny Deol's Film "Roars" At ₹ 43 Crore|url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/gadar-2-day-2-box-office-sunny-deol-starrer-mints-rs-43-crore-on-saturday-4294282|publisher=[[NDTV]]|access-date=14 August 2023}}</ref><ref name=":0" /> == Early life == Deol was born as Ajay Singh Deol<ref>{{cite news|title=2019 Lok Sabha elections affidavit: I hereby declare |url=https://indianexpress.com/photos/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2019-i-hereby-declare-bjp-congress-rahul-gandhi-narendra-modi-amit-shah-5658185/|date=30 April 2019|newspaper=The Indian Express}}</ref> on 19 October 1956,<ref>{{cite news |last=Shah |first=Jigar |date=14 January 2016 |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/i-have-never-bothered-about-my-age-sunny-deol/story-Z1zK9SplQPHy1HGHcRW0aI.html |title=I have never bothered about my age: Sunny Deol |work=Hindustan Times |access-date=14 January 2016 |archive-date=14 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114183128/http://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/i-have-never-bothered-about-my-age-sunny-deol/story-Z1zK9SplQPHy1HGHcRW0aI.html |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IE Deol Bday">{{cite news |last=Kameshwari |first=A. |date=19 October 2016 |work=Indian Express |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-birthday-dance-action-3091005/ |title=Happy Birthday Sunny Deol: This is why Sunny paaji is a non-dancer's icon |access-date=20 October 2016 |archive-date=20 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161020194522/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-birthday-dance-action-3091005/ |url-status=live}}</ref> in the village of [[Sahnewal]] in [[East Punjab]], [[India]]<ref>{{cite news|title=In my 30-year career, I have spent five years in bed due to my backache: SDeol|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/In-my-30-year-career-I-have-spent-five-years-in-bed-due-to-my-backache-Sunny-Deol/articleshow/25126235.cms?curpg=2|access-date=11 February 2013|work=The Times Of India|archive-date=25 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181225165914/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/In-my-30-year-career-I-have-spent-five-years-in-bed-due-to-my-backache-Sunny-Deol/articleshow/25126235.cms?curpg=2|url-status=live}}</ref> in a [[Punjabi people|Punjabi]] [[Jat]] family,<ref>{{cite news |title=Sunny Deol: Bobby and I are still scared of dad |url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-sunny-deol-the-unsung-hero/20110103.htm |access-date=9 September 2023 |work=Rediff |date=3 January 2011}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2 May 2019|title=Lok Sabha elections 2019: Sunny Deol banks on Punjabi roots, patriotic |website=Hindustan Times|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/lok-sabha-elections/lok-sabha-elections-2019-sunny-deol-banks-on-punjabi-roots-patriotic-image/story-1j3GdhDo7k9AdK571PYzHO.html |language=en|archive-date=5 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200305174646/https://www.hindustantimes.com/lok-sabha-elections/lok-sabha-elections-2019-sunny-deol-banks-on-punjabi-roots-patriotic-image/story-1j3GdhDo7k9AdK571PYzHO.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=6 June 2011|title=Vijayta Films|url=http://www.vijaytafilms.com/thedeols.html|access-date=30 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606081153/http://www.vijaytafilms.com/thedeols.html|archive-date=6 June 2011}}</ref> to Bollywood actor [[Dharmendra]]<ref>{{cite web|title=The Deols|url=http://vijaytafilms.com/thedeols.html|publisher=vijaytafilms|access-date=13 July 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606081153/http://www.vijaytafilms.com/thedeols.html|archive-date=6 June 2011}}</ref> and Prakash Kaur.<ref>{{cite news|title=Sunny Deol's mother Prakash Kaur makes rare appearance at Gadar 2 premiere; Dharmendra, Bobby Deol, Tania also spotted|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-mother-prakash-kaur-gadar-2-premiere-dharmendra-first-wife-bobby-deol-101691809934206.html|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=12 August 2023}}</ref> He has a younger brother [[Bobby Deol]] and two sisters Vijayta and Ajeeta who are settled in [[California]], USA. [[Hema Malini]] is his step-mother.<ref>{{cite web|title=He's like my teddy bear |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/He-s-like-my-teddy-bear/Article1-711213.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130125200003/http://www.hindustantimes.com/He-s-like-my-teddy-bear/Article1-711213.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=25 January 2013 |publisher=hindustantimes |access-date=13 July 2011 }}</ref> Actress [[Esha Deol]] and Ahana Deol are his half-sisters.<ref>{{cite web |title=Sunny Deol pawan |url=http://www.starboxoffice.com/stars/Default.aspx?bid=actors_Sunny_Deol |publisher=starboxoffice |access-date=13 July 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110423200443/http://www.starboxoffice.com/stars/Default.aspx?bid=actors_Sunny_Deol |archive-date=23 April 2011 }}</ref> His cousin [[Abhay Deol]] is also an actor.<ref>{{cite news |title=Abhay Deol dances with cousins Sunny, Bobby in Karan Deol's baaraat, calls it his 'favourite moment' |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/abhay-deol-sunny-deol-bobby-deol-dance-karan-deols-wedding-101687154609292.html |access-date=27 December 2023 |work=Hindustan Times |date=19 June 2023 |language=en}}</ref> == Acting career == === 1983-1984: Debut and romantic roles=== Deol made his debut with the 1983 romantic film ''[[Betaab]]'' which earned him his first nomination for the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]]. Produced by father [[Dharmendra]] and directed by [[Rahul Rawail]], the film follows the story of two young lovers, played by Deol and [[Amrita Singh]], navigating obstacles to their love amidst family conflicts and class divide. The plot of the film was loosely based on [[William Shakespeare]]’s&nbsp;''[[The Taming of the Shrew|The Taming Of The Shrew]]''.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |date=5 August 2021 |title=38 Years of Betaab: 5 Unknown facts about the film : Bollywood News |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/features/38-years-betaab-5-unknown-facts-film/ |access-date=2 April 2024 |website=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref> The film emerged as a commercial success and went on to be one of the biggest hits of the year, emerging as the second highest-grossing Indian film of 1983.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=189&catName=MTk4Mw==|title=Boxofficeindia.com|date=15 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115225522/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=189&catName=MTk4Mw== |archive-date=15 January 2013 }}</ref> Betaab turned Deol and co-star Singh into overnight sensations.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 August 2023 |title=सनी देओल की 'बेताब' को 40 साल, पहली फिल्म से बॉक्स ऑफिस पर मचाया था 'गदर' |url=https://www.jansatta.com/entertainment/sunny-deol-debut-film-betaab-completed-40years-movie-made-record-on-box-office-and-amrita-singh-relationship-rumours/2948254/ |access-date=2 April 2024 |website=Jansatta |language=hi}}</ref> The music by [[R. D. Burman]], also played a significant role as the song ‘''Jab Hum Jawan&nbsp;Honge''<nowiki/>' was a chartbuster.<ref name=":1" /> Hajan Valley located in [[Kashmir]], a major location in the film came to be known as [[Betaab Valley]], which has since become a popular tourist destination in the region.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/bollywood-returns-to-kashmir-its-original-home-461037 | title=Bollywood returns to Kashmir, its original home }}</ref> The following year, Deol starred in ''[[Sunny (1984 film)|Sunny]]'', ''[[Manzil Manzil]]'', and ''[[Sohni Mahiwal (1984 film)|Sohni Mahiwal]]'', with only the latter becoming successful at the box office. ''Sohni Mahiwal'' (1984), an Indian-Russian film portrays the classic [[Punjabi folklore]] tragic love story of [[Sohni Mahiwal|Sohni]], portrayed by [[Poonam Dhillon]], a potter's daughter, and [[Sohni Mahiwal|Mahiwal]] (Deol), a wealthy merchant, amidst societal constraints. The film remains celebrated for its soundtrack and has attained [[Cult film|cult classic]] status in [[Russia]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/cast/id/540400 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120627195951/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/cast/id/540400 | archive-date=27 June 2012 | title=Sohni Mahiwal (1984) &#124; Movie Review, Trailers, Music Videos, Songs, Wallpapers - Bollywood Hungama | website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] }}</ref> === 1985-2003: Action star === Deol then appeared in [[Rahul Rawail]]'s ''[[Arjun (1985 film)|Arjun]]'' (1985), in which he played the titular role of an unemployed radical youngster, who alongside his group of friends, fights against the system that thrives on corruption and exploitation of the weak. The film opened to much critical praise and went on to become a major hit and established Sunny Deol's status as an [[action hero]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://muvyz.com/boxoffice/byyear/y3/1985 | title=Box Office by Year (1985) - Bollywood MuVyz }}</ref> ''Arjun'' is considered one of Deol's best works to date.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Verma|first1=Sukanya|title=Classic Revisited: Arjun, Sunny Deol's BEST action film|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/report/classic-revisited-arjun-sunny-deols-best-action-film/20140904.htm|work=[[Rediff.com]]|access-date=21 August 2017|date=4 September 2014}}</ref> In 1986, he appeared alongside his [[Dharmendra|father]] in ''[[Sultanat (1986 film)|Sultanat]]''. In the final years of the decade he appeared in subsequent action hits including ''[[Dacait]]'' (1987), ''[[Paap Ki Duniya]]'' (1988), ''[[Vardi (film)|Vardi]]'' (1988) and ''[[Tridev]]'' (1989). His role as a police officer in ''Tridev'' was praised. ''Tridev'' received numerous accolades and was the third highest-grossing film of 1989.<ref>{{cite web|title=Box Office 1988|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=194&catName=MTk4OA==|publisher=Box Office India|access-date=14 December 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090131224648/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=194&catName=MTk4OA==|archive-date=31 January 2009}}</ref> He also played a role in the slapstick comedy ''[[ChaalBaaz]]'' (1989), starring [[Sridevi]] in [[dual role]], along with Deol and [[Rajinikanth]]. It was well received by critics and emerged as a commercial success, eventually becoming the fifth-highest-grossing film of 1989.<ref>"http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-the-best-double-roles-in-bollywood/20120531.html</ref> Deol appeared in the lead role of a boxer in ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]'' (1990), directed by debutant [[Rajkumar Santoshi]], which became the year's second highest-grossing film worldwide and the highest-grossing film domestically. The film grossed {{INR|20 crore}} and was declared a ''blockbuster'' by ''[[Box Office India]]''.<ref name="BOI">{{cite web |url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=196&catName=MTk5MA== |title=Box Office 1990 |work=Box Office India |access-date=21 May 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120112161019/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=196&catName=MTk5MA%3D%3D |archive-date=12 January 2012 }}</ref> The film won him the [[Filmfare Award for Best Actor]] and the [[National Film Award – Special Jury Award (feature film)|National Film Award – Special Jury Award (Feature Film)]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Sunny Deol's quiet 56th birthday bash|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-22/news-interviews/30310348_1_sunny-deol-bash-dharmendra|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130706120851/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-10-22/news-interviews/30310348_1_sunny-deol-bash-dharmendra|url-status=dead|archive-date=6 July 2013|work=[[The Times of India]]|accessdate=14 December 2011|date=22 October 2011}}</ref> The success of the film established Deol as a bonafide box office draw and the film recorded a large repeat audience.<ref>{{cite web |title=On This Day: Dil v Ghayal Clash - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=6063 |website=Box Office India |access-date=4 April 2021}}</ref> Due to the overwhelming success of ''Ghayal'', Deol enjoyed a very successful period throughout the 90s.<ref>{{cite news |title=Box Office Special Features – Highest Grosser of The Year |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/box-office-special-features/highest-grosser-year-1990-2020-salman-khan-aamir-khan-shah-rukh-khan-dominate-hrithik-roshan-climbs-ladder/ |access-date=3 August 2021 |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=29 December 2020}}</ref> From 1991 to 2001, he delivered back-to-back successes. Starting with ''[[Yodha (1991 film)|Yodha]]'' in 1991 in which he co-starred alongside [[Sanjay Dutt]]. It received mostly average reviews and earned ₹12.95 crore against a budget of ₹2.85 crore.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 June 2021 |title=Yodha 1991 Movie Box Office Collection, Budget and Unknown Facts 1990's Box Office Collection |url=https://ksboxoffice.com/yodha-1991-movie-box-office-collection-budget-and-unknown-facts/movies-facts/ | access-date=18 December 2021 |website=KS Box Office |language=en-US}}</ref> The same year, [[Narsimha (1991 film)|''Narsimha'']] was another success and emerged as the 8th highest grossing Indian film of 1991. In 1992, he appeared in his only release ''[[Vishwatma]]''. The film received critical acclaim upon release from contemporary as well as modern [[critic]]s, with praise drawn towards its screenplay and action sequences.<ref>{{Cite web|date=24 January 2019|title=Vishwatma: Bollywood's Flashiest Story of Patriotism in Pardes|url=https://www.arre.co.in/bollywood/vishwatma-republic-day-patriotism/|access-date=7 July 2021|website=Arré|language=en-US}}</ref> It earned over {{INR|9.5 crore}} in its total theatrical run worldwide and was the [[List of Bollywood films of 1992|sixth highest-grossing Indian film of 1992]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=198&catName=MTk5Mg==|title=Boxofficeindia.com|date=14 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014053544/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=198&catName=MTk5Mg==|archive-date=14 October 2013}}</ref> It proved to be a major launchpad for [[Chunky Panday|Chunky Pandey]] as well as for debutanté [[Divya Bharti]].<ref>{{Cite web|last1=KATIYAR|first1=ARUN|title=Cheaper to work with, Nubile Young Things become a rage in Bollywood|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/story/19920331-cheaper-to-work-with-nubile-young-things-become-a-rage-in-bollywood-766074-2013-06-21|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210709191404/https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/society-the-arts/story/19920331-cheaper-to-work-with-nubile-young-things-become-a-rage-in-bollywood-766074-2013-06-21|archive-date=9 July 2021|access-date=7 July 2021|website=India Today}}</ref> In 1993, Deol reunited with [[Rajkumar Santoshi]] to play an alcoholic lawyer in the highly successful crime drama ''[[Damini (1993 film)|Damini]]'' and was awarded the [[Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor]] and the [[National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Filmfare Awards|url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/celebrities/awards/11741/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080502153534/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/celebrities/awards/11741/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 May 2008|accessdate=28 June 2011|work=[[Bollywood Hungama]]}}</ref><ref> *{{Cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/amp/news/buzz/90smoviesin2018-heres-why-meenakshi-seshadri-rishi-kapoors-damini-is-a-cult-feminist-film-1963225.html|title=#90sMoviesIn2018: Here's Why Meenakshi Seshadri-Rishi Kapoor's 'Damini' is a Cult Feminist Film|website=news18.com|date=7 December 2018 |access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.filmfare.com//features/20-women-oriented-films-in-bollywood-26975.html|title=20 women-oriented films in Bollywood|website=filmfare.com|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.in/movies/roles-that-changed-the-way-bollywood-looks-at-women/Naina-Dushman-1998/slideshow/31602667.cms|title=Naina (Dushman, 1998)|website=Business Insider|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/navratri-special-top-5-bollywood-films-which-are-female-oriented_1804864.html|title=Navratri special: Top 5 Bollywood films which are female oriented!|date=1 October 2015|website=Zee News|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}}</ref> The pathbreaking film was praised for breaking social taboos and handling the subject of rape with sensitivity; a rarity in Bollywood at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-evolution-of-the-rape-scene-2520956|title=Evolution of the rape scene|date=5 August 2017|website=Daily News and Analysis|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.mid-day.com/articles/bollywood-films-in-which-good-triumphed-over-evil/15653185|title=Bollywood films in which good triumphed over evil|date=3 October 2014|website=mid-day|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.cinestaan.com/articles/2018/apr/30/12896|title=Burning issues raised in Rajkumar Santoshi's Damini still remain&nbsp;— 25th anniversary special|last=Kahlon|first=Sukhpreet|website=Cinestaan|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.femina.in/achievers/the-harsh-truth-about-being-a-rape-survivor-in-india-85230.html|title=The harsh truth about being a rape survivor in India|website=femina.in|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-top-10-movies-that-portray-the-moral-decline-of-society-1888409|title=Top 10 movies that portray the moral decline of society|date=13 September 2013|website=Daily News and Analysis|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}}</ref> It further strengthened Deol's He-Man image. His dialogues in the film "Tarikh Pe Tarikh" (date after date) and "Dhai Kilo Ka Haath" (Two-and-a-half kilogram hand) became iconic and a pop-culture reference.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/Star%20Track/tarikh-pe-tarikh/297142.html|title=Tribune India&nbsp;– Tarikh pe tarikh}} *{{Cite web|url=https://m.desimartini.com/news/amp/martini-shots/archive/sunny-deol-roles-films-article38504.htm|title=RANKED: 5 Best Performances of Sunny Deol \u002D Desimartini|website=m.desimartini.com|date=19 October 2016 |language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/happy-birthday-sunny-deol-his-7-best-films-you-should-watch-again-1913093.html|title=Happy Birthday Sunny Deol: His 7 Best Films You Should Watch Again|website=News18|date=19 October 2018 |access-date=25 June 2019}}</ref> The film was a milestone in the careers of Deol as well as [[Amrish Puri]] who went onto star in various films together in the future.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.newsnation.in/photos/entertainment/amrish-puri-birthday-special-5-iconic-performances-of-the-legendary-actor-that-made-him-our-favourite-villain-3-2094/slide1|title=Amrish Puri birthday special 5 iconic performances of the legendary actor that made him our favourite villain- News Nation|website=newsnation.in|date=22 June 2017 |language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/bollywood/jolly-llb-damini-pink-court-and-more-bollywood-s-10-best-courtroom-drama/story-IYTPwv776wbs64bbNTwreJ.html|title=Jolly LLB, Damini, Pink, Court and more: Bollywood's 10 best courtroom dramas|date=9 February 2017|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{Cite web|url=https://www.desimartini.com/news/martini-shots/top-list/5-instances-where-holi-sequence-in-bollywood-was-not-a-happy-occasion-article78266.htm|title=5 Instances Where Holi Sequence in Bollywood Was Not A Happy Occasion|date=2 March 2018|website=Desimartini|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}}</ref> Besides being critically acclaimed, the film also became the sixth [[Bollywood films of 1993#Highest grossing|highest grossing film of the year]] and was declared a "hit" by Box Office India.<ref name="bo">[http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=199&catName=MTk5Mw== Box Office 1993] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131017072516/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=199&catName=MTk5Mw%3D%3D |date=17 October 2013 }} Box Office India.</ref> That same year, Deol portrayed the character of a lieutenant army officer in [[Yash Chopra]]'s musical psychological thriller ''[[Darr]]''. The film earned Deol his third nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. It was declared a blockbuster and was the third-highest grossing film of the year in India, and the highest-grossing Indian film of the year in the overseas markets. It received widespread acclaim from critics upon release. It was also noted for being [[Shah Rukh Khan]]'s breakthrough film. In 1994's ''[[Insaniyat (1994 film)|Insaniyat]]'', he appeared alongside [[Amitabh Bachchan]] which turned out to be the 10th highest grossing film of the year.<ref name="bo94" /> In 1995, ''[[Angrakshak]]'' was an above-average grosser at the box office. At the time, 1996 marked Deol's most successful year in terms of commercial success. The audiences saw four releases that year including ''[[Himmat (1996 film)|Himmat]]'', ''[[Jeet (1996 film)|Jeet]]'', ''[[Ghatak: Lethal|Ghatak]]'', and ''[[Ajay (1996 film)|Ajay]]''. Starring Alongside [[Salman Khan]] and [[Karisma Kapoor]], ''Jeet'' earned a worldwide collection of {{INR}}30.5 crore.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2769|title=Jeet – Movie|publisher=[[Box Office India]]}}</ref> It became the [[List of Hindi films of 1996|4th highest grossing Bollywood film of 1996]].<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=202&catName=MTk5Ng==| title=Indian Box Office 1996 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090131022154/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=202&catName=MTk5Ng== | access-date=5 June 2008| archive-date=31 January 2009 }}</ref> ''[[Ghatak: Lethal|Ghatak]]'', released the same year, received critical and commercial acclaim, and was declared a blockbuster by ''Box Office India''.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/Years/years_detail/1996 | title=Box Office 1996 | access-date=5 June 2012}}</ref> It marked Santoshi's third collaboration with Deol, Seshadri, and Puri after ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]'' (1990) and ''[[Damini]]'' (1993). The film earned Deol his fourth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. Deol's dialogues in ''Ghatak'' such as "Ye Mazdoor Ka Haath Hai Kaatiya" and "Utha Utha Ke Patkunga" became extremely popular among the audiences and influenced the pop culture of the time period.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 June 2021 |title=7 Iconic Sunny Deol Dialogues We'll Never Forget No Matter Kitne Tareekh Beet Jaye |url=https://www.mensxp.com/entertainment/bollywood/89298-sunny-deol-iconic-dialogues-from-bollywood-films.html |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=MensXP |language=en-IN}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=सनी देओल के 40 चीर देने और उठा-उठा के पटकने वाले डायलॉग! |url=https://www.thelallantop.com/entertainment/post/40-mindblowing-and-chilling-dialogues-of-bollywoods-most-powerful-action-hero-sunny-deol |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=www.thelallantop.com |date=19 October 2020 |language=hi}}</ref> [[File:Sunny Deol and Anil Sharma filming Gadar Ek Prem Katha.jpg|thumb|Sunny Deol (right) and [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]] (left) on the sets of [[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha]] in 2000.|left]] Deol kicked off 1997 with ''[[Ziddi (1997 film)|Ziddi]]'' which had a net collection of Rs 292.5 million and was one of the highest grossing films of 1997.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Top India Total Nett Gross 1997 - - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/years.php?year=1997&pageId=4 |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> The film flourished particularly in North India. He followed it up with ''[[Border (1997 film)|Border]]'', an epic [[war film]] based on the real life events that happened during the [[Battle of Longewala]] in 1971, in which Deol played the leading role of decorated [[Indian Army]] officer [[Brigadier (India)|Brigadier]] [[Kuldip Singh Chandpuri]]. The film featured a ensemble cast of Deol, [[Jackie Shroff]], [[Sunil Shetty]], [[Akshaye Khanna]], [[Tabu (actress)|Tabu]], [[Rakhee Gulzar|Raakhee]], [[Pooja Bhatt]], including others. It opened to strong box office results and was declared an all time blockbuster by ''[[Box Office India]]''. It also became the highest-grossing Hindi film of 1997 domestically,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Top Hits 1997 - - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/hit-down.php?txtYearlyData=1990-1999&year=1997 |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> and the second highest-grossing Indian film of the year worldwide. ''Border'' grossed a worldwide total of {{INR|65.57 crore}} and it was the fourth biggest blockbuster film of the 90s decade.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://boxofficeindia.com/hit-down.php?txtYearlyData=1990-1999 | title=Top Hits 1990-1999 - - Box Office India }}</ref> The film earned Deol his fifth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/82-border-top-100-bollywood-albums/ |title=#82 Border: Top 100 Bollywood Albums |website=Film Companion |date=19 August 2017 |access-date=5 July 2021}}</ref> In 1998, Deol collaborated with [[Guddu Dhanoa]] once again after ''Ziddi'' (1997), to star in the action film ''[[Salaakhen (1998 film)|Salaakhen]]''. Featuring an identical cast to ''Ziddi'', [[Raveena Tandon]], [[Anupam Kher]] and [[Farida Jalal]] played supporting roles. The film was noted for its action sequences, cast performances and a notable monologue delivered by Deol during a courtroom hearing.<ref>{{Cite web |last=WebEditor |date=25 May 2018 |title=four Iconic Moments Of Salaakhen 1998 That You Want To Examine Out At present |url=https://www.coolentertainment.us/movies-and-tv/four-iconic-moments-of-salaakhen-1998-that-you-want-to-examine-out-at-present.html |access-date=2 April 2024 |website=Cool Entertainment |language=en-US}}</ref> Released on 24 April 1998, it recorded an excellent opening and was another hit for the actor.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 March 2024 |title=When Sunny Deol Became The Blockbuster King of The 90s |url=https://www.news18.com/amp/movies/when-sunny-deol-became-the-blockbuster-king-of-the-90s-8422987.html }}</ref> His 1999 film ''[[Arjun Pandit (1999 film)|Arjun Pandit]]'' marked his first collaboration with director [[Rahul Rawail]] after ''Yodha''. Due to the critical and commercial success of their previous collaborations ''[[Arjun (1985 film)|Arjun]]'' (1985) and ''[[Yodha (1991 film)|Yodha]]'' (1991)'','' the film was one of the most awaited films of the year. Although it was not well reviewed upon release, the film became a hit. UP gangster [[Vikas Dubey]] was reported to be an ardent fan of this movie and rumoured to have watched it over 100 times. Inspired by his love for this movie, he had earned the monicker ''Pandit''.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/india/how-vikas-dubey-became-the-gabbar-of-bikru/articleshow/76918160.cms|title = How Vikas Dubey became the 'Gabbar' of Bikru|website = [[The Times of India]]}}</ref> In 1999 he made his directorial debut with ''[[Dillagi (1999 film)|Dillagi]]'' starring himself, his [[Bobby Deol|brother]] and [[Urmila Matondkar]], but the film failed to gain success.<ref>{{cite web|title=The Biggest Blockbusters Ever in Hindi Cinema|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=350&catName=QmlnZ2VzdCBCbG9ja2J1c3RlcnMgRXZlcg==|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|access-date=11 April 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131026073055/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=350&catName=QmlnZ2VzdCBCbG9ja2J1c3RlcnMgRXZlcg==|archive-date=26 October 2013}}</ref> His first blockbuster hit in the millennium was 2001 film {{Lang|hi-latn|[[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha]]}}, directed by [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]], in which Deol played the role of a patriotic Indian truck driver, Tara Singh who falls in love with a Muslim girl, Sakeena, in the backdrop of [[Partition of India|1947 partition]] violence, and makes a dramatic trip to Pakistan to get back his beloved.<ref name="THG">{{cite news | url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/gadar-2-teaser-sunny-deol-returns-to-lahore-extracts-a-wheel/article66960828.ece | title='Gadar 2' teaser: Sunny Deol returns to Lahore, extracts a wheel | newspaper=TH | date=12 June 2022 }}</ref> ''Gadar'' became the [[List of highest-grossing Indian films|highest-grossing Hindi film up until then]] in mainstream cinema earning over {{INRConvert|1.3|b}} worldwide. It ranks among the top 3 Indian films in all-time highest footfalls since 1990s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/india-footfalls.php|title=Top India Footfalls All Time|website=boxofficeindia.com|access-date=24 May 2017}}</ref> The infamous "Handpump scene" became a major cultural symbol and influenced the contemporary [[Parody|parody culture]] in [[India]] in the following years.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/amp/story/features/bollywood-features/how-sunny-deols-gadar-2-exploded-at-the-indian-box-office | title=How Sunny Deol's Gadar 2 Exploded at the Indian Box Office | date=August 2023 }}</ref> Deol received high praise for his performance, as [[Taran Adarsh]] of ''[[IndiaFM]]'' wrote: "To state that Gadar belongs to Deol would be an understatement. It's difficult to imagine any other actor essaying this role with precision. The actor takes to the character like a fish takes to water and emerges triumphant."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/review/6748/index.html |title=Gadar: Ek Prem Katha Movie Review |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |access-date=12 June 2001 |archive-date=25 December 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081225012521/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/review/6748/index.html |url-status=dead}}</ref> The film earned him his sixth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor.<ref>{{cite web|title=Top Hits Down The Years|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_hits|publisher=Box Office India|accessdate=9 August 2011}}</ref> In the same year, Deol also worked in another successful action thriller film ''[[Indian (2001 film)|Indian]]'' (2001). It received a record breaking opening, grossing a domestic nett of {{INR}}18.0 million on its opening day.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Opening Day Records Since 1990 - 34 Films - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4419 |access-date=28 March 2024 |website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> It was the fourth highest-grossing Hindi film of the year in India with collection of ₹42.60 crore.<ref name="Saini">{{cite news |last1=Saini |first1=Kainika |title=Muhurat Of Sunny Deol's Action Film Indian (2001) |url=https://lehren.com/exclusive/bollywood-flashback/muhurat-of-sunny-deols-action-film-indian-2001/69833/ |access-date=20 August 2021 |work=Lehren |date=30 November 2020}}</ref><ref name="Khalid">{{cite news |last1=Khalid |first1=Mohammed |title=Indian |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/bollywood/indian-/articleshow/443388500.cms |access-date=31 August 2021 |work=Times of India |date=29 October 2001}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Top Actor|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors|publisher=[[Box Office India]]|accessdate=9 August 2011|archive-date=17 January 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080117065629/http://boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors|url-status=dead}}</ref> Critics felt that Deol's role of DCP Rajshekhar Azad was "tailor-made" for him.<ref>{{Cite web |date=23 April 2009 |title=Indian : Movie Review by Taran Adarsh |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |url=http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/review/6764/index.html |access-date=2 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090423153640/http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movies/review/6764/index.html |archive-date=23 April 2009 }}</ref> In 2002, Deol starred in the war film ''[[Maa Tujhhe Salaam (2002 film)|Maa Tujhhe Salaam]]'' which opened strongly and despite being amongst the highest grossing films of the year, only emerged as a box office disappointment due to poor reviews.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=598|title=Maa Tujhhe Salaam - Movie - Box Office India|website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> He played the role of Indian [[Indian independence movement|revolutionary]] [[Chandra Shekhar Azad]] in ''[[23rd March 1931: Shaheed]]'', starring his brother [[Bobby Deol]] in the role of [[Bhagat Singh]]. The film's release coincided with another film based on Bhagat Singh, directed by [[Rajkumar Santoshi]] and titled ''[[The Legend of Bhagat Singh]]''. Both films failed at the box office.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2002/may/03bhag.htm|title=rediff.com: Movies: Which Bhagat Singh do we choose?|website=rediff.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/At-the-movies-The-Legend-of-Bhagat-Singh/articleshow/12303758.cms|title=At the movies: The Legend of Bhagat Singh |website=The Times of India|date=8 June 2002 }}</ref> Then, in 2003, Deol teamed up with director [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]] yet again for ''[[The Hero: Love Story of a Spy]]'', which also starred [[Preity Zinta]] and the debutant [[Priyanka Chopra]].<ref>{{cite web|title=third highest grosser|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=209&catName=MjAwMw==|publisher=Box Office India|access-date=29 June 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120525225820/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=209&catName=MjAwMw==|archive-date=25 May 2012}}</ref> Released on 11 April, ''[[The Hero: Love Story of a Spy|The Hero]]'' was billed as [[Bollywood]]'s most expensive film at that time with an estimated budget of {{INRConvert|600|m}}.<ref>{{cite news|title=The Hero stunt most exacting, says Sunny Deol|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2003-03-17/mumbai/27288303_1_sunny-deol-anil-sharma-expensive-film|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120701135142/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2003-03-17/mumbai/27288303_1_sunny-deol-anil-sharma-expensive-film|url-status=dead|archive-date=1 July 2012|access-date=14 December 2011|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|date=17 March 2003}}</ref> The film became the third highest-grossing Bollywood film of that year.<ref>{{cite web|title=Box Office 2003|url=http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=209&catName=MjAwMw==|publisher=www.boxofficeindia.com|access-date=15 December 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120525225820/http://www.boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=209&catName=MjAwMw==|archive-date=25 May 2012}}</ref> [[Derek Elley]] from ''[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]'' wrote about the film and called it "a wildly over-the-top, stridently nationalistic but undeniably entertaining slice of hokum."<ref>{{cite web |title=Review: 'The Hero: Love Story of a Spy' |url=https://variety.com/2003/film/reviews/the-hero-love-story-of-a-spy-1200542160/ |author=Elley, Derek |work=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=16 April 2003 |access-date=14 January 2016 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304061004/http://variety.com/2003/film/reviews/the-hero-love-story-of-a-spy-1200542160/ |archive-date=4 March 2016}}</ref> === 2004-2022: Downturn === [[File:Sunny Deol at Dev's Anand's autobiography release.jpg|thumb|Deol attending the release of [[Dev Anand]]'s autobiography Romancing with Life in 2007.]] During this phase of his career, Deol ventured into a range of films that deviated from his usual style and the prevailing trends of the Bollywood industry, unfortunately achieving lackluster success.<ref name="Sunny Deol" /> In 2004, Deol starred in ''[[Lakeer – Forbidden Lines|Lakeer]]'', which featured an ensemble cast including [[Suniel Shetty|Sunil Shetty]], and newcomers [[Sohail Khan]] and [[John Abraham]]. The film was a flop.<ref name="Lakeer" /> In the same year, he starred in the [[sports comedy]] film ''[[Rok Sako To Rok Lo]]'', another flop.<ref name="Rok Sako" /> ''[[Jo Bole So Nihaal (film)|Jo Bole So Nihaal]]'' released in 2005 was Deol's solo release for the year. Despite the buzz, the film didn't fare well at the box office.<ref name="Jo Bole" /> However, Deol's unique portrayal sparked a noteworthy trend in the industry, inspiring the creation of [[Comedy film|comedic]] movies centered around [[Sikhism|Sikh]] protagonists exuding a carefree and jovial persona. This trend saw subsequent releases like ''[[Singh Is Kinng|Singh is Kinng]]'' (2008), ''[[Son of Sardaar]]'' (2012), and ''[[Singh Is Bliing|Singh is Bliing]]'' (2015) in the years that followed. In early 2006, Deol starred in the [[techno-thriller]] ''[[Teesri Aankh: The Hidden Camera|Teesri Aankh]]''. It marked the second time he co-starred alongside [[Ameesha Patel]], after the all time blockbuster ''Gadar''. The film is also inspired by the 1994 movie ''[[Mute Witness]]''. It was panned by critics and turned out to be a [[Box-office disaster|disaster]].<ref name="Teesri Aankh" /> In September 2006, Deol took on a role in the [[Action-adventure game|action-adventure]] film ''[[Naksha]]'', an endeavour by Bollywood to capture the essence of films seen in the ''[[Indiana Jones]]'' and ''[[The Mummy (franchise)|The Mummy]]'' series. Despite being hailed as ahead of its time by certain critics, the movie unfortunately met with box office failure.<ref name="Naksha" /> Deol kicked off 2007 with another atypical film for the time, ''[[Big Brother (2007 film)|Big Brother]]'', a [[Vigilante film|vigilante]] film. This was supposed to be [[Priyanka Chopra]]'s first release in 2002 but was delayed by almost 5 years.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2007/04/09/big_brother_2007_review.shtml|title=BBC - Movies - review - Big Brother|website=www.bbc.co.uk}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/big-brother/critic-review/big-brother-movie-review/ |title=Big Brother Review 1/5 &#124; Big Brother Movie Review &#124; Big Brother 2007 Public Review &#124; Film Review |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=13 April 2007}}</ref> The film was a disaster.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1472|title=Big Brother - Movie - Box Office India|website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> Continuing his year, he appeared in the [[Caper film|comedic caper]] ''[[Fool & Final|Fool N Final]]'', sharing the spotlight with emerging talents [[Shahid Kapoor]] and [[Ayesha Takia]]. This film was also a box office disappointment. Deol appeared alongside his father [[Dharmendra]] and brother [[Bobby Deol]] together for the first time in ''[[Apne]]'' (2007), a [[Sports drama|sports-drama]] film.<ref name="Apne"/> The film garnered significant hype and achieved considerable success. In 2008, he appeared with his brother again in the ensemble film ''[[Heroes (2008 film)|Heroes]]''. Deol's performance, although brief, was praised. 2009 saw Deol star in the thriller ''[[Fox (film)|Fox]]'' (2009) opposite [[Arjun Rampal]]. It marked Deol's first film appearing as an [[antagonist]]. The film was inspired from [[Hollywood (film industry)|Hollywood]] film ''[[A Murder of Crows (film)|A Murder of Crows]]'' (1999).<ref>{{cite news|title="FOX" starring Arjun Rampal and Sunny Deol gears up for a 2009 release |newspaper=Indiaglitz.com |url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/44115.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090108004350/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/article/44115.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 January 2009|accessdate=16 March 2012|date=6 January 2009}}</ref> The film failed miserably at the box office.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/fox/critic-review/fox-movie-review/ |title=Fox Review 1.5/5 &#124; Fox Movie Review &#124; Fox 2009 Public Review &#124; Film Review |website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=4 September 2009}}</ref><ref name="Garimella" /> Deol's first release of 2010 was Neeraj Pathak's crime thriller ''[[Right Yaaa Wrong]]'' which had him playing a [[Police Inspector|police inspector]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Right Ya Wrong is the surprise of the year.|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-03-15/news-interviews/28125267_1_characters-shades-sunny-deol|access-date=22 March 2012|archive-date=25 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131225164819/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2010-03-15/news-interviews/28125267_1_characters-shades-sunny-deol|work=[[The Times of India]]|url-status=dead}}</ref>''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana]]'' which also featured him alongside his father and brother was Deol's only release in 2011 and was declared a hit.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=35 |title=Yamla Pagla Deewana - Movie - Box Office India}}</ref> For the first time in his career, Deol lent his voice in the Animated film ''[[Mahabharat (2013 film)|Mahabharata]]'' for the role of [[Bhima|Bheem]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/yamla-pagla-deewana-2/movie-review/20439988.cms |title=Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 Review |work=The Times Of India |access-date=7 April 2020 |archive-date=7 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407154536/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/yamla-pagla-deewana-2/movie-review/20439988.cms |url-status=live}}</ref> It earned ₹16.9 million.<ref>{{cite web |title=Mahabharat – Movie – Box Office India|url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2005|access-date=29 August 2020|website=www.boxofficeindia.com|archive-date=28 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228170406/http://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=2005|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana 2]]'', a sequel to his 2011 hit was released in 2013 but the film was a critical and box office failure. In the end of 2013 Deol teamed up with [[Anil Sharma (director)|Anil Sharma]] yet again for ''[[Singh Saab The Great]]'' which was loved massively and created a big pandemonium in the cinema hall as well as on Facebook. The film turned out be success.<ref>{{cite web |title=FIR Against Sunny Deol For Allegedly Abusive Language In Mohalla Assi – NDTV Movies |url=http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/fir-against-sunny-deol-for-allegedly-abusive-language-in-mohalla-assi-774064 |access-date=22 June 2015 |archive-date=22 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150622155654/http://movies.ndtv.com/bollywood/fir-against-sunny-deol-for-allegedly-abusive-language-in-mohalla-assi-774064 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[File:Sunny Deol & Dharmendra promote ‘Ghayal Once Again’ in Delhi.jpg|thumb|Sunny Deol and father [[Dharmendra]] in 2016.|left]] In 2015, he worked in ''[[Radhika Rao (director)|Radhika Rao]]'' and ''Vinay Sapru''{{'s}} ''[[I Love NY (2015 film)|I Love NY]]'' opposite [[Kangana Ranaut]]. Due to an unknown reason, the film was delayed from its original release date of 2011 and released several years later. The film failed at the box office. In 2016, ''[[Ghayal Once Again]] was released'' which was a sequel to his 1990 film ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]''. It marked Deol's second film directorial since ''[[Dillagi (1999 film)|Dillagi]]'' (1999). It was one of the most anticipated movies of the year. The action sequences were praised but the story and pacing were criticised. The film earned well but ultimately failed. In 2017, he and his brother appeared in [[Shreyas Talpade]]'s comedy film ''[[Poster Boys]]'', which flopped at the box office.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=3593|title=Poster Boys - Movie - Box Office India|website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> In 2018, Deol appeared in ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se]]'', the third film in the franchise. Also that year, two of his long delayed films ''[[Bhaiyyaji Superhitt]]'' (where he plays a double role for the first time),<ref name=cast>{{cite news|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment/news/bollywood-news/article/sunny-deols-bhaiyyaji-superhit-finally-gets-a-release-date-will-hit-theatres-on-october-19/252218|title=Sunny Deol's Bhaiyyaji Superhit finally gets a release date, will hit theatres on October 19|access-date=29 July 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref> and ''[[Mohalla Assi]]'' were released. All of them were box office failures. Meanwhile, in 2019, Deol took the mantle of a director again, his third film as a director, ''[[Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas]]'', which marked the debut of his son [[Karan Deol (actor)|Karan Deol]], with another newcomer Sahher Bambba in lead roles. In 2022, Deol starred in the crime thriller ''[[Chup: Revenge of the Artist]]'' directed by [[R. Balki]]. Alongside [[Dulquer Salmaan]], [[Shreya Dhanwanthary]] and [[Pooja Bhatt]]. The plot of the film centered around a serial killer who targets dishonest film critics. Released on 23 September 2022, where it received positive reviews from critics.<ref>{{cite web |title=Chup Movie Review: Film critics, beware. You're about to lose your organs |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/bollywood/story/chup-movie-review-sunny-deol-dulquer-salmaan-film-critics-beware-you-re-about-to-lose-your-organs-2003572-2022-09-22 |publisher=[[India Today]] |access-date=23 September 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Khalli Balli Movie Review : A horror comedy that neither scares nor entertains |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/khalli-balli/movie-review/94247892.cms |work=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=21 September 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Chup: Revenge of the Artist Review: Dulquer Salmaan is the star of this unique yet flawed story|url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/reviews/chup-revenge-of-the-artist-review-dulquer-salmaan-is-the-star-of-this-unique-yet-flawed-story-1191490%3famp|website=[[Pinkvilla]]|access-date=22 September 2022|archive-date=24 September 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220924085755/https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/reviews/chup-revenge-of-the-artist-review-dulquer-salmaan-is-the-star-of-this-unique-yet-flawed-story-1191490?amp|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=22 September 2022 |title=Chup: Revenge of the Artist review – a killer Bollywood horror to frighten film critics |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2022/sep/22/chup-revenge-of-the-artist-review-a-killer-bollywood-horror-to-frighten-film-critics |access-date=25 September 2022 |website=The Guardian |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Chup: Revenge of the Artist Box Office|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/chup/box-office/|website=[[Bollywood Hungama]] |date=23 September 2022 |access-date=26 September 2022}}</ref> Deol won the ''Lions Gold Awards'' for Male Action Star Of The Year 2022.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bollywood stars grace 18th Lions Gold Awards|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interviews/Bollywood-stars-grace-18th-Lions-Gold-Awards/articleshow/11459105.cms|newspaper=The Times of India|accessdate=13 January 2012|date=12 January 2012}}</ref>{{failed verification|date=March 2023}} === 2023-present: Resurgence === [[File:Sunny Deol at grace the GQ Men of the Year Awards 2023.jpg|125px|thumb|Sunny Deol at GQ Awards 2023]] The sequel of the 2001 film ''[[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha|Gadar]]'', ''[[Gadar 2]]'', was released on 11 August 2023.<ref>{{cite news |title=Gadar 2 box office collection Day 1: Sunny Deol-starrer storms theatres; delivers Bollywood's second-biggest opening of 2023, breaks single screen records |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/gadar-2-box-office-collection-day-1-sunny-deol-starrer-40-crore-records-friday-8888847/ |access-date=12 August 2023 |work=The Indian Express |date=12 August 2023}}</ref> The film's story is centered around the era of the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971]], in which Deol as Tara Singh returns to [[Pakistan]] to bring back his son. It is directed and produced by Anil Sharma, and the film stars Deol along with [[Ameesha Patel]], and [[Utkarsh Sharma]] in lead roles.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/anil-sharma-wraps-lucknow-schedule-of-gadar-2/articleshow/91005397.cms |title=Anil Sharma wraps Lucknow schedule of 'Gadar 2' |newspaper=Times of India | date=22 April 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Roushan |date=7 August 2023 |title=Gadar 2: The crew reached Wagah Border for the promotions |url=https://interviewerpr.com/gadar-2-sunny-deol-and-ameesha-reached-wagah-border-before-the-films-release-danced-on-udja-kale-kawan/ |access-date=12 August 2023 |website=Interviewer PR |language=en-US}}</ref> ''Gadar 2'' emerged as the highest-grossing film in Deol's career.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |date=25 August 2023 |title=Gadar 2 box office collection day 14: Sunny Deol, Ameesha Patel film earns ₹8.2 cr, takes India total to ₹418.9 cr |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/gadar-2-box-office-collection-day-14-sunny-deol-ameesha-patel-film-101692924329774.html |access-date=26 August 2023 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en}}</ref> The film earned ₹691 crore worldwide,<ref name="g2bo">{{cite web|title=Gadar 2 Box Office|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/gadar-2/box-office/|access-date=16 August 2023|website=[[Bollywood Hungama]]|date=11 August 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Gadar 2 Box Office|url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/movie/gadar-2/box-office/|access-date=12 August 2023|website=Bollywood Hungama|date=12 August 2023}}</ref> and became the year's [[List of Hindi films of 2023|4th highest-grosser]], as well as one of the [[List of highest-grossing Hindi films|highest-grossing Indian films of all time]].<ref name="boxoffww">{{cite web |url=https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/box-office-collections/worldwide/2023/|title=Bollywood Top Grossers Worldwide 2023|access-date=22 August 2023|website=Bollywood Hungama}}</ref> Deol's performance in ''Gadar 2'' earned him several award nominations, including his seventh nomination for a [[Filmfare Awards|Filmfare Award]] in the Best Actor category.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.abplive.com/entertainment/bollywood/filmfare-awards-nomination-list-2024-animal-jawan-dunki-nominated-check-complete-list-here-2586929 | title='एनिमल' सबसे ज्यादा कैटेगिरी में हुई नॉमिनेट, चेक करे फिल्मफेयर अवॉर्ड्स 2024 के नॉमिनेशन की कंप्लीट लिस्ट | date=16 January 2024 }}</ref> Deol won the [[Zee Cine Awards|Zee Cine Award]] for Best Actor (Viewer's Choice) for ''Gadar 2'',<ref>{{cite news |title=Zee Cine Awards 2024 full winners list: Shah Rukh Khan's Jawan wins big; Sunny Deol, Rani Mukerji, Kiara Advani honoured |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/zee-cine-awards-2024-full-winners-list-shah-rukh-khan-sunny-deol-rani-mukerji-kiara-advani-ananya-pandey-jawan-101710139333339.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=11 March 2024 |access-date=16 March 2024}}</ref> while he was also named the [[GQ India]] Leading Man of the Year 2023.<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=xPatwa |first1=Priyadarshini Patwa |date=23 November 2023 |title=GQ Men of the Year 2023: 35 inside pictures & videos from the coolest party of the year featuring Karan Johar, Sunny Deol, Alia Bhatt, Aditya Roy Kapur & more |url=https://www.gqindia.com/content/gq-men-of-the-year-2023-33-inside-pictures-and-videos-from-the-coolest-party-of-the-year-featuring-karan-johar-sunny-deol-alia-bhatt-aditya-roy-kapur-and-more |magazine=GQ India |access-date=16 March 2024}}</ref> Deol will next be seen in ''Soorya.'' He has also committed to star in ''Baap''.<ref>{{cite news |title=Baap: Mithun Chakraborty, Sunny Deol, Sanjay Dutt and Jackie Shroff are rugged gangsters in first poster |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/baapmithun-chakraborty-sunny-deol-sanjay-dutt-and-jackie-shroff-present-their-rugged-gangsters-avatars-8258403/ |access-date=14 August 2023 |work=The Indian Express |date=9 November 2022 |language=en}}</ref> == Political career == Deol joined the [[Bharatiya Janata Party|Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)]] on 23 April 2019.<ref>{{cite news |last1=PTI |title=Bollywood actor Sunny Deol joins BJP |url=https://www.timesofindia.com/elections/news/bollywood-actor-sunny-deol-joins-bjp/amp_articleshow/69003734.cms |access-date=27 March 2019 |work=[[Times of India]] |date=23 April 2019}} {{dead link|date=August 2020 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> He won the [[2019 Indian general election|2019 Lok Sabha Elections]] from [[Gurdaspur (Lok Sabha constituency)|Gurdaspur constituency]] in Punjab against [[Sunil Jakhar]] of [[Indian National Congress|Indian national Congress]] with a margin of 82,459 votes.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.newsnation.in/election/lok-sabha-election-2019/from-sunny-deol-to-urmila-matondkar-heres-how-star-candidates-fared-in-lok-sabha-polls-article-225290.html|title=From Sunny Deol to Urmila Matondkar, here's how star candidates fared in Lok Sabha Polls|date=24 May 2019|website=News Nation|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190524112411/https://www.newsnation.in/election/lok-sabha-election-2019/from-sunny-deol-to-urmila-matondkar-heres-how-star-candidates-fared-in-lok-sabha-polls-article-225290.html|archive-date=24 May 2019|url-status=live|access-date=24 May 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/actor-sunny-deol-wins-the-lok-sabha-elections-2019-by-82459-votes/articleshow/69472584.cms|title=Actor Sunny Deol wins the Lok Sabha Elections 2019 by 82,459 votes|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=24 May 2019|archive-date=28 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128000400/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/actor-sunny-deol-wins-the-lok-sabha-elections-2019-by-82459-votes/articleshow/69472584.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> As of 11 December 2023 he has an attendance of 18% in the Parliament. The national average for the same is 79%.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ajay Singh Dharmendra Deol {{!}} PRSIndia |url=https://prsindia.org/mptrack/17-lok-sabha/ajay-singh-dharmendra-deol |access-date=21 December 2023 |website=PRS Legislative Research |language=en-US}}</ref> == Personal life == Sunny Deol is married to Lynda Deol (a.k.a. Pooja Deol). Lynda comes from an [[Anglo-Indian people|Anglo-Indian]] family. Her father, Krishan Dev Singh Mahal, is an Indian; while her mother, June Sarah Mahal, is a British descending from the British Royal family.<ref>{{cite news|title=The wife of this Bollywood superstar belongs to Royal British Family, her real name is...|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-the-wife-of-superstar-sunny-deol-belongs-to-royal-british-family-her-real-name-is-lynda-deol-pooja-deol-3049211|website=DNA India|date=26 June 2023}}</ref> The couple has two sons, Karan and Rajveer. Karan was an assistant director on ''[[Yamla Pagla Deewana 2]]'' and has rapped in a song sung by [[Diljit Dosanjh]] in the film.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Sunny Deol's son turns assistant director, wife writer for Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 – Indian Express|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/sunny-deols-son-turns-assistant-director-wife-writer-for-yamla-pagla-deewana-2/1094802/|website=archive.indianexpress.com|access-date=11 May 2020}}</ref> Karan Deol has made his Bollywood debut in 2019 with the [[Hindi|Hindi-language]] feature film ''[[Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas]]''.<ref>{{Citation|title=Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas Movie Review: Highs and lows of love|newspaper=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/pal-pal-dil-ke-paas/movie-review/71206141.cms|access-date=11 May 2020|archive-date=31 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200131153220/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/movie-reviews/pal-pal-dil-ke-paas/movie-review/71206141.cms|url-status=live}}</ref> Karan also starred in the 2021 [[crime comedy film]] ''[[Velle (film)|Velle]]''.<ref name="ndtv">{{cite web|title=Dharmendra's Grandson Karan Deol's Next Project Is Velle. Details Here|url=https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/ajay-devgn-reveals-first-look-of-karan-deol-s-film-velle-2614366|access-date=25 November 2021|website=NDTV.com}}</ref> In June 2023, Karan married Drisha Acharya in the presence of the Deol family, including Sunny Deol, Dharmendra and Bobby Deol.<ref>{{cite news |title= Karan Deol shares dreamy first official wedding pics with wife Drisha Acharya |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/karan-deol-shares-first-official-wedding-pics-with-wife-drisha-acharya-101687096846936.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=18 June 2023 |access-date=4 July 2023}}</ref> Rajveer Deol has made his Bollywood debut in 2023 with the [[Hindi cinema|Hindi-language]] feature film ''[[Dono (film)|Dono]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 September 2023 |title=Dono trailer: Rajveer Deol and Paloma Thakeria's debut film is a usual romantic saga of heartbroken lovers |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/dono-trailer-rajveer-deol-paloma-thakeria-usual-romantic-saga-8923630/ |access-date=5 September 2023 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> ===Legal issues=== In August 2023, [[Bank of Baroda]], a public sector bank in India, issued a notice to auction Sunny Deol's property in Mumbai's [[Juhu]] locality, known as Sunny Villa, for failing to repay a loan amounting to nearly ₹56 crore. The bank stated that the property was being auctioned under the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2022, and the reserve price was set at about ₹51.43 crore.<ref>{{cite web |date=22 August 2023 |title=Bank of Baroda puts actor Sunny Deol's property on auction for loan dues of Rs 56 crore |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/banking/finance/banking/bank-of-baroda-puts-actor-sunny-deols-property-on-auction-for-loan-dues-of-rs-56-cr/articleshow/102874312.cms?from=mdr |publisher=The Economic Times}}</ref> However, shortly after the notice was issued, Bank of Baroda withdrew it for "technical reasons".<ref>{{cite web |date=20 August 2023 |title=Bank of Baroda Withdraws Auction Notice for Sunny Deol's House in Mumbai |url=https://thewire.in/banking/bjp-mp-actor-sunny-deols-house-in-mumbai-to-be-e-auctioned-by-a-public-sector-bank |publisher=The Wire}}</ref> == Reception and artistry == ===Reception=== Deol is frequently recognised as a superstar of Indian cinema.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Negi |first1=Pritish |date=8 September 2023 |title=Sunny Deol Left Visibly Embarrassed After Amrita Singh's Mention: 'Dharam ji Told You To Hug...' |url=https://www.news18.com/amp/movies/sunny-deol-left-visibly-embarrassed-over-amrita-singhs-mention-dharam-ji-told-you-to-hug-8568648.html |work=News18|access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=साक्षी |date=21 October 2023 |title=बॉलीवुड में सुपरस्टार की पहचान वापस पाकर खुश हैं सनी देओल, बोले- 'गदर 2' के कारण सफल हुआ करियर |url=https://www.amarujala.com/amp/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-got-back-superstar-image-in-industry-credits-anil-sharma-film-gadar-2-for-reigniting-career-success-2023-10-21|work=Amar Ujala |language=hi |access-date=27 March 2024 }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last1=Kumar |first1=Arun |date=18 September 2023 |title=Not SRK or Salman, but Sunny Deol is the last standing 'Mass superstar' of B'wood; Here's why |url=https://www.mensxp.com/entertainment/bollywood/144892-sunny-deol-is-the-last-massy-superstar-of-bollywood-gadar-2-ghatak-reasons.html |magazine=MensXP |access-date=27 March 2024}}</ref> He established himself as an [[action hero]], with his roles in ''[[Arjun (1985 film)|Arjun]]'' (1985), ''[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]]'' (1990), ''[[Ghatak: Lethal|Ghatak]]'' (1996), ''[[Border (1997 film)|Border]]'' (1997), and ''[[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha]]'' (2001).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mensxp.com/amp/entertainment/celebrities/121828-abhay-deol-sunny-deol-bobby-deol-dharmendra-family-need-more-appreciation-in-bollywood.html |title=Forget Kapoors & Khans, We Need to Appreciate the Deol Men & Their Movies More |date=12 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/when-sunny-deol-became-the-blockbuster-king-of-the-90s-8422987.html |title=When Sunny Deol Became the Blockbuster King of the '90s |date=25 July 2023}}</ref><ref> *{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/amp/news/buzz/90smoviesin2018-heres-why-meenakshi-seshadri-rishi-kapoors-damini-is-a-cult-feminist-film-1963225.html|title=#90sMoviesIn2018: Here's Why Meenakshi Seshadri-Rishi Kapoor's 'Damini' is a Cult Feminist Film|website=news18.com|date=7 December 2018 |access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{cite web|url=https://www.filmfare.com//features/20-women-oriented-films-in-bollywood-26975.html|title=20 women-oriented films in Bollywood|website=filmfare.com|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.in/movies/roles-that-changed-the-way-bollywood-looks-at-women/Naina-Dushman-1998/slideshow/31602667.cms |title=Naina (Dushman, 1998)|website=Business Insider|access-date=25 June 2019}} *{{cite web |url=https://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/movies/navratri-special-top-5-bollywood-films-which-are-female-oriented_1804864.html|title=Navratri special: Top 5 Bollywood films which are female oriented! |date=1 October 2015 |website=Zee News|language=en|access-date=25 June 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.deccanherald.com/entertainment/was-gadar-patriotic-heres-what-sunny-deol-thought-about-films-theme-2648583 |title=Was 'Gadar' patriotic? Here's what Sunny Deol thought about film's theme}}</ref> Deol's portrayals personified [[masculinity]] and [[Classical radicalism|radicalism]] in India.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/photo-features/sunny-deol-films-that-pack-a-punch-literally/sunny-deol-films-that-pack-a-punch-literally/photostory/44871194.cms |title=Sunny Deol films that pack a punch, literally! |newspaper=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.thehansindia.com/cinema/sunny-deol-enjoyed-doing-patriotic-themes--518780 |title=Sunny Deol enjoyed doing 'patriotic themes' |date=6 April 2019}}</ref> At the peak of his career, Deol was known for his muscular physique.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/gadar-2-actor-sunny-deol-has-these-words-of-wisdom-for-budding-actors/articleshow/102694655.cms?from=mdr |title='Gadar 2' actor Sunny Deol has these words of wisdom for budding actors |newspaper=The Times of India |date=13 August 2023}}</ref> Deol was one of the prominent actors of Hindi cinema in the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, appearing in [[Box Office India]]'s list of top actors nine times from 1989 to 2002. Deol topped the list twice, in 1997 and 2001.<ref>{{Cite web |date=29 October 2013 |title=Boxofficeindia.com |url=http://boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors |access-date=9 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029191201/http://boxofficeindia.com/cpages.php?pageName=top_actors |archive-date=29 October 2013 }}</ref> Deol was one of the highest paid actors of Hindi cinema during the 1990s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=90s में सबसे ज्यादा फीस लेते थे ये 9 स्टार, चौंका देगा नंबर 1 का नाम |url=https://hindi.asianetnews.com/webstories/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-to-salman-khan-akshay-kumar-shah-rukh-khan-ajay-devgn-meet-90s-highest-paid-actors-gga-qg72akh |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=hindi.asianetnews.com |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=बॉलीवुड: ये हैं 90 के दशक के सबसे महंगे सितारे, इन्हें फिल्म में लेने वाले निर्माताओं की खाली हो जाती थी जेब |url=https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/entertainment/bollywood/shahrukh-khan-to-ajay-devgn-meet-the-highest-paid-actors-of-bollywood-from-90s |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=Amar Ujala |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=12 May 2023 |title=Sunny Deol To Salman Khan, 5 Highest Paid Actors Of The 90s |url=https://www.news18.com/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-to-salman-khan-5-highest-paid-actors-of-the-90s-7798609.html |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref> Since 1990, Deol has the third most bumper openings at the box office with a total of 10, behind only [[Shah Rukh Khan]] (18) and [[Salman Khan]] (14).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bharat Is Fourteenth Bumper Opening For Salman Khan - Box Office India |url=https://www.boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=5076 |access-date=28 March 2024 |website=www.boxofficeindia.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=8 September 2023 |title=Box Office: Shah Rukh Khan delivers the 18th bumper opener of his career with Jawan; Most since the year 1990 |url=https://www.pinkvilla.com/entertainment/box-office/box-office-shah-rukh-khan-delivers-the-18th-bumper-opener-of-his-career-with-jawan-most-since-the-year-1990-1241735 |access-date=28 March 2024 |website=PINKVILLA |language=en}}</ref> He has also given three record openers since 1990 including ''[[Kshatriya (film)|Kshatriya]]'' (1993), ''[[Border (1997 film)|Border]]'' (1997), and ''[[Indian (2001 film)|Indian]]'' (2001).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Opening Day Records Since 1990 - 34 Films - Box Office India |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/report-details.php?articleid=4419 |access-date=28 March 2024 |website=boxofficeindia.com}}</ref> Deol is the first and only Indian actor to deliver an all-time blockbuster as a lead hero after turning 60, he was 66 when he accomplished this landmark with his 2023 release [[Gadar 2|Gadar 2]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Simran |date=6 April 2024 |title=Meet star with 30 flops, no solo hit in 22 years, career got ruined; then gave highest-grossing film at age 66, now he.. |url=https://www.dnaindia.com/bollywood/report-meet-star-with-30-flops-sunny-deol-no-solo-hit-in-22-years-career-got-ruined-then-highest-grossing-film-at-66-3084324/amp |work=DNA |access-date=8 April 2024}}</ref> He has been compared to [[Sylvester Stallone]] that earned him the moniker of "Indian Rambo".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pal |first=Deepanjana |date=1 October 2023 |title=Angry Young Man to Grumpy Old Man: How Sunny Deol Expanded the Definition of Hero |url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/angry-young-man-to-grumpy-old-man-how-sunny-deol-expanded-the-definition-of-hero |website=Filmcompanion |access-date=8 April 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Bhattacharya |first=Roshmila |date=25 March 2015 |title=BACKSTAGE PASS - Sunny is like an Indian Sylvester Stallone |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/backstage-pass-sunny-is-like-an-indian-sylvester-stallone/articleshow/46688471.cms |work=The Times of India |access-date=8 April 2024 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> In 2016, [[Geeta Phogat]], the Indian [[Wrestling|wrestler]] and [[Olympic Games|Olympic]] [[gold medal]]ist, expressed her admiration for Deol, citing him as her favourite actor and how she drew inspiration from his "angry man" portrayals.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.jansatta.com/khel/geeta-phogat-kapil-sharma-show-youtube-video-watch-geeta-phogat-revealed-difficult-match-career-kapil-sharma-show-commonwealth-games/1591855/ |title=कपिल शर्मा के शो पर गीता फोगाट ने करियर के सबसे मुश्किल मैच के बारे में किया था खुलासा, लगा था नहीं मिल पाएगा मेडल |date=15 December 2020}}</ref><ref name="pw" /> Also in 2016, actors [[Varun Dhawan]] and [[John Abraham]] referred to Deol as "the greatest action hero of Bollywood".<ref>{{cite news |title=Sunny Deol Is Real Action Hero: Varun Dhawan |url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/sunny-deol-is-real-action-hero-varun-dhawan-1277445.html |access-date=20 November 2023 |work=News18 |agency=IANS |date=4 August 2016 |language=en}}</ref> Deol's dialogues, including "[[Ghayal (1990 film)|Balwant Rai Ke Kutto]]", "[[Damini|Dhai Kilo ka Haath]]", and "[[Damini|Tarikh Pe Tarikh]]", are considered iconic.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/Star%20Track/tarikh-pe-tarikh/297142.html|title=Tribune India&nbsp;– Tarikh pe tarikh}} *{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/happy-birthday-sunny-deol-his-7-best-films-you-should-watch-again-1913093.html|title=Happy Birthday Sunny Deol: His 7 Best Films You Should Watch Again|website=News18|date=19 October 2018 |access-date=25 June 2019}}</ref> In 2019, [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] celebrated India's spirit by tweeting one of Deol's dialogues: "[[Gadar: Ek Prem Katha|Hindustan Zindabad Tha, Hai, Aur Rahega]]".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.aajtak.in/entertainment/story/pm-modi-met-sunny-deol-and-delivered-gadar-movie-dialogue-tmov-653885-2019-04-28 |title=सनी देओल से मिलकर बोले पीएम मोदी- 'हिंदुस्तान जिंदाबाद था, है और रहेगा' |date=28 April 2019 }}</ref> In 2022, he was placed in [[Outlook India]]'s "75 Best Bollywood Actors" list.<ref>{{Cite web |title=75 Actors Who Conquered Hearts Of The Millions Since 1947 |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/75-actors-who-conquered-hearts-of-the-millions-since-1947-news-215861/amp |website=Outlook India}}</ref> In 2023, Deol was referenced in the lyrics of [[Haryanvi music|Haryanvi]] singer Raju Punjabi's viral song "Choudhar Jaat Ki." The specific lines from the song were, "Hawa banai thadi re meri Sunny Deol si body re (I make you look good with my Sunny Deol-like body)".<ref>{{cite news |title=Raju Punjabi: मेरी सनी देओल सी बॉडी है... देखिए ये राजू पंजाबी की आखिरी पोस्ट |url=https://zeenews.india.com/hindi/zee-hindustan/video/singer-raju-punjabi-last-video-i-have-a-body-like-sunny-deol/1836249 |access-date=17 October 2023 |work=Zee News |date=22 August 2023 |language=hi}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Sukheja |first1=Bhavya |title=Fans Pay Tribute To Singer Raju Punjabi: "He Made Invaluable Contributions" |url=https://www.ndtv.com/feature/raju-punjabi-dies-haryanavi-singer-fans-pay-tribute-to-singer-raju-punjabi-4318622 |access-date=17 October 2023 |work=NDTV |date=22 August 2023}}</ref> === Artistry === Many of Deol's films share unique elements which have become characteristic of his body of work. Primarily, his films often center around protagonists hailing from modest backgrounds, who find themselves entangled in conflicts with [[Organized crime|crime syndicates]] and [[systemic corruption]]. Despite seeking help from [[Law|legal channels]], the characters invariably encounter hurdles within the [[justice system]], compelling them to take matters into their own hands and resort to [[vigilantism]] as a means of seeking retribution against the antagonists. This narrative framework serves as a vehicle for exploring broader societal issues, including the shortcomings of [[Law enforcement in India|law enforcement]], [[discrimination]], [[Marginalized|exploitation of the marginalised]], and [[Corruption in India|pervasive corruption]], which are portrayed through the protagonists' struggles and impassioned dialogues delivered by Deol.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://m.rediff.com/amp/movies/report/didnt-watch-sunny-deols-1990-ghayal-read-this/20160204.htm|title=Didn't watch Sunny Deol's 1990 Ghayal? Read this! - Rediff.com|website=m.rediff.com}}</ref> In contrast to the stereotype of the [[Action hero|silent action hero]], Deol's characters are men of action and articulate numerous words. Initially conflict-avoidant, they pivot to unfiltered anger when met with opposition, progressing to threats of violence charged with indignation, and ultimately resorting to physical force. Notably, Deol's characters seldom instigate violence independently and only respond when provoked.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://m.rediff.com/movies/report/classic-revisited-arjun-sunny-deols-best-action-film/20140904.htm | title=Classic Revisited: Arjun, Sunny Deol's BEST action film }}</ref> Deol's filmography is also marked by instances of [[graphic violence]], such as the arm-tearing scene in [[Ziddi (1997 film)|Ziddi]] (1997). Moreover, he frequently assumes roles of leadership, either of [[military units]], as in [[Border (1997 film)|Border]] (1997) and [[Maa Tujhhe Salaam (2002 film)|Maa Tujhhe Salaam]] (2002),<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/retro-review-border-is-just-a-good-war-film-468396.html | title=Retro Review: 'Border' is just a good war film | date=25 April 2012 }}</ref> or [[Radicalism (historical)|radical]] [[vigilante group]]s evident in films like [[Arjun (1985 film)|Arjun]] (1985), [[Ghayal (1990 film)|Ghayal]] (1990), [[Ziddi (1997 film)|Ziddi]] (1997) and [[Big Brother (2007 film)|Big Brother]] (2007).<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/amp/story/readers-articles/rahul-rawails-arjun-the-movie-that-launched-a-thousand-remakes | title=Rahul Rawail's Arjun, the Movie That Launched a Thousand Remakes | date=12 January 2021 }}</ref> In his portrayal of everyday interactions, Deol's characters embody the ideal citizen advocating for truth, honesty, [[integrity]], and [[patriotism]], while exhibiting profound respect for [[Familial values|familial]] and [[Values|individual values]].<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20201028170048/https://www.cinestaan.com/articles/2020/may/10/25565/35-years-of-arjun-how-an-article-about-the-gang-wars-of-the-1980s-inspired-the-film-s-plot Article title]</ref> Even in romantic relationships, Deol is depicted as a caring and respectful partner characterised by consideration for his partner's feelings and autonomy. They avoid overly dramatic displays of love and do not chase their love interest upon rejection, a departure from conventional Bollywood portrayals of romance.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/bollywood/darr-completes-25-years-how-shah-rukh-khan-yash-chopra-depicted-violence-deeply-embedded-in-love-5754981.html | title=Darr completes 25 years: How Shah Rukh Khan, Yash Chopra depicted violence deeply embedded in love-Entertainment News , Firstpost | date=24 December 2018 }}</ref> Physically, Deol embodies a rugged and muscular physique, distinguished by its lack of hyper-vascular aesthetics and the presence of natural body hair.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.filmcompanion.in/features/bollywood-features/angry-young-man-to-grumpy-old-man-how-sunny-deol-expanded-the-definition-of-hero#:~:text=Among%20action%20heroes%2C%20Deol%20may,he%20first%20became%20a%20star | title=Angry Young Man to Grumpy Old Man: How Sunny Deol Expanded the Definition of Hero | date=19 October 2023 }}</ref> ==Controversies== Deol starred in the [[Yash Chopra]] -directed ''[[Darr]]'' (1993), where he played the [[protagonist]] opposite [[Shah Rukh Khan]] as the [[antagonist]]. ''Darr'' was one of the most anticipated films of 1993 due to it being the first collaboration between Deol and Chopra, and recorded a bumper opening at the box office largely credited to Deol's role.<ref name="koimoi.com">{{Cite web |date=5 August 2018 |title=35 Years Of Sunny Deol: These 8 Bumper Openers At Box Office Prove His Superstardom |url=https://www.koimoi.com/box-office/35-years-of-sunny-deol-these-8-bumper-openers-at-box-office-prove-his-superstardom/amp/ |website=Koimoi}}</ref> Despite the film's commercial success, Deol felt betrayed and cheated by the director, who he accused of glorifying the villain and sidelining the hero. He claimed that the final version differed significantly from what was initially conveyed to him, with edited scenes that he was not informed about. He had a heated argument with Chopra over the climax of the film, during which he ripped his pants in anger. He also vowed to never work with Chopra again. Subsequently, he did not speak to Khan for 16 years, but he admitted that it was not deliberate.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Sunny Deol ripped his pants in anger during Darr, didn't speak to Shah Rukh Khan for 16 years |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-ripped-his-pants-in-anger-during-darr-didnt-speak-to-shah-rukh-khan-for-16-years-7410736/ |work=The Indian Express |date=18 July 2021 |access-date=9 January 2024}}</ref><ref name="Lehren">{{cite news |title=From Boycott to Affair - Sunny Deol's Top 8 Controversies |url=https://lehren.com/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-controversies-affair-boycott/176619/ |access-date=10 January 2024 |work=Lehren |date=19 August 2023}}</ref> Since then, Deol and Khan have reconciled.<ref>{{cite news |title=Sunny Deol says his feud with Shah Rukh Khan after Darr was 'childish': 'That should not have happened' |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-shah-rukh-khan-feud-after-darr-childish-shouldnt-have-happened-8933007/lite/ |work=The Indian Express |date=10 September 2023 |access-date=17 January 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Sunny Deol opens up on 'childish' fight with Shah Rukh Khan on sets of Darr. Here's what he said |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/sunny-deol-opens-up-on-fight-with-shah-rukh-khan-on-sets-of-darr-101694329686111-amp.html |work=Hindustan Times |date=11 September 2023 |access-date=17 January 2024}}</ref> Deol faced a boycott by the [[2020–2021 Indian farmers' protest|farmers of Punjab]], who were protesting against the farm laws passed by the central government in 2020. Deol, as a [[BJP]] [[Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha|MP]] from [[Gurdaspur district|Gurdaspur]] constituency of [[Punjab, India|Punjab]], was seen as a supporter of the government and a betrayer of the farmers. He was also accused of being silent and inactive on the issue, and of not raising the voice of his constituents in the [[Parliament of India|parliament]]. He later backed the new farm laws which led to the farmers also burning his effigies and posters, and refusing to watch his films.<ref name="Lehren"/><ref>{{Cite web |title=Actor and BJP MP Sunny Deol finally breaks his silence on farmers protest, heres what he said |url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/actor-and-bjp-mp-sunny-deol-finally-breaks-his-silence-on-farmers-protest-heres-what-he-said-2329197.html |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=Zee News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Sunny Deol Gets Y-Category Security, Backed New Farm Laws |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/sunny-deol-gets-y-category-security-backed-new-farm-laws-2339318 |access-date=9 January 2024 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> Deol sparked a controversy with his statement on [[India-Pakistan]] at the trailer launch of his 2023 film ''[[Gadar 2]]'', where he blamed the “political game” for the hatred between the two countries, and said that people on both sides want peace and love. However, he was criticised for his diplomatic stand and accused of contradicting the [[Anti-Pakistan sentiment|anti-Pakistan]] content of his film. He was also trolled for peddling “[[Aman ki Asha]]” (peace initiative) while his film was about “Gadar” (revolt).<ref>{{Cite news |title=Shameful! Gadar 2 Star Sunny Deol Ignites Controversy Over His India-Pakistan Statement |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/shameful-gadar-2-star-sunny-deol-ignites-controversy-over-his-india-pakistan-statement-article-102172464 |work=TimesNow |date=27 July 2023 |access-date=9 January 2024}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Negi |first1=Shrishti |date=27 July 2023 |title=Gadar 2 Star Sunny Deol Sparks Huge Controversy, Says 'Hatred Between India-Pakistan Because...' |url=https://www.news18.com/movies/sunny-deol-reacts-to-india-pakistan-hatred-at-gadar-2-event-sparks-controversy-8434789.html |work=News18 |access-date=10 January 2024}}</ref> == Filmography == {{Main|Sunny Deol filmography}} == Awards and nominations == {{Main|List of awards and nominations received by Sunny Deol}} == References == {{reflist|refs= <ref name="bo94">{{cite web|url=http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=200&catName=MTk5NA== |title=Box Office 1994 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130115230146/http://boxofficeindia.com/showProd.php?itemCat=200&catName=MTk5NA== |archive-date=15 January 2013 |url-status=dead |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Garimella">{{cite web |url=https://movies.fullhyderabad.com/fox/hindi/fox-movie-reviews-3161-2.html |title=Fox Review: Deepa Garimella |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Jo Bole">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=409 |title=Jo Bole So Nihaal |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Lakeer">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=473 |title=Lakeer |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Naksha">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=305 |title=Naksha |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="pw">{{cite web|url=https://www.newsnationtv.com/sports/more-sports/pro-wrestling-league-2-bollywood-actor-sunny-deol-and-geeta-phogat-supports-punjab-team-13767.html |title=पंजाब वॉरियर्स और जयपुर निंजास के मैच में पहुंचे सनी देओल और गीता फोगाट, मैच का उठाया लुफ्त |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Rok Sako">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1772 |title=Rok Sako To Rok Lo |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Sunny Deol">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/actor.php?actorid=3 |title=Sunny Deol |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> <ref name="Teesri Aankh">{{cite web |url=https://boxofficeindia.com/movie.php?movieid=1599 |title=Teesri Aankh - The Hidden Camera |access-date=29 August 2023}}</ref> }} == External links == {{Commons category|Sunny Deol}} * {{IMDb name|0219971}} * {{Bollywood Hungama person|sunny-deol}} {{Navboxes | title = Awards for Sunny Deol | list = {{NationalFilmAwardBestSupportingActor}} {{National Film Award Special Jury Award Feature Film}} {{Filmfare Award for Best Actor}} {{Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor}} {{ScreenAwardBestActor}} }} {{Portal bar|Biography|Bollywood|Films|India|Politics|Media}} {{Authority control}} {{17th LS members from Punjab}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Deol, Sunny}} [[Category:1956 births]] [[Category:Living people]] [[Category:Indian male voice actors]] [[Category:Indian male film actors]] [[Category:Film producers from Mumbai]] [[Category:Film directors from Mumbai]] [[Category:Hindi-language film directors]] [[Category:Filmfare Awards winners]] [[Category:Screen Awards winners]] [[Category:Male actors in Hindi cinema]] [[Category:Punjabi people]] [[Category:Mithibai College alumni]] [[Category:Best Supporting Actor National Film Award winners]] <!-- Category:People from Sahnewal non-existing category January 2017 --> [[Category:Male actors from Mumbai]] [[Category:Male actors from Punjab, India]] [[Category:People from Ludhiana district]] [[Category:20th-century Indian male actors]] [[Category:21st-century Indian male actors]] [[Category:Film directors from Punjab, India]] [[Category:Film producers from Punjab, India]] [[Category:Special Jury Award (feature film) National Film Award winners]] [[Category:India MPs 2019–present]] [[Category:Lok Sabha members from Punjab, India]] [[Category:Bharatiya Janata Party politicians from Punjab]] [[Category:Indian actor-politicians]]'