Gujaratis love their cinema like they love their food—full of flavour, drama and a little extra masala. Over the years, the Gujarati film industry has evolved from regional storytelling to national recognition, producing some of the finest actors who’ve ruled not just local screens but Bollywood and OTT platforms too. From veterans to new-age performers, Ajay’s Cafe brings you a list of top 10 Gujarati actors who’ve left an indelible mark.
Table of Contents
- Vikram Thakor – The OG Superstar
- Pratik Gandhi – The National Sensation
- Paresh Rawal – The Timeless Legend
- Malhar Thakar – The Youth Icon
- Dilip Joshi – Our Very Own Jethalal
- Prachi Desai – The Bollywood Star with Gujarati Roots
- Yash Soni – The Romantic Hero
- Disha Vakani – The Queen of Quirk
- Supriya Pathak – The Powerhouse Performer
- Manoj Joshi – The Veteran Actor
- A Taste of Gujarat with Ajay’s Cafe
- Wrapping Up
Vikram Thakor – The OG Superstar
Vikram Thakor is the heartthrob of rural Gujarat, known for his soulful singing, emotional performances and action-packed dramas. Coming from a family of folk musicians, he started his career as a singer before stepping into the world of cinema. His breakthrough came with Ek Var Piyu Ne Malva Aavje, which established him as Gujarat’s most beloved star. With his signature style of traditional folk music blended with contemporary storytelling, Vikram continues to rule the hearts of his fans.
His filmography includes Rang Rasiya, Premji: Rise of a Warrior and Radha Tara Vina Gamtu Nathi, among others. He is known for bringing raw emotions and authenticity to his roles, making his films a massive hit in rural areas. Despite the evolution of Gujarati cinema, Vikram Thakor remains an icon who bridges tradition with modern entertainment, proving that folk-inspired storytelling still has a special place in people’s hearts.
Pratik Gandhi – The National Sensation
From struggling to find stage roles to making stock market scams look cool, Pratik Gandhi has had a journey worth a blockbuster script. He started in theatre, worked in Gujarati films and then BOOM—came Scam 1992 and suddenly, “Risk hai toh ishq hai” became everyone’s motto!
While he became a national sensation overnight, Pratik had already wowed Gujarati audiences with films like Bey Yaar, Wrong Side Raju and Love Ni Bhavai. His ability to switch from intense drama to lighthearted fun with ease makes him one of the most exciting actors today.
Now, Bollywood can’t get enough of him, with films like Bhavai, Dedh Bigha Zameen and Do Aur Do Pyaar adding to his ever-growing list. Whether he’s playing a scam artist, a common man or a hopeless romantic, one thing’s for sure—Pratik Gandhi is here to stay and we are all invested!
Paresh Rawal – The Timeless Legend
Some actors age like fine wine, but Paresh Rawal? He’s vintage gold—priceless, versatile and always in demand. Whether he’s making us laugh till our stomachs hurt, terrifying us as a villain or moving us with a heartfelt performance, this man can do it all.
Starting his career in Gujarati theatre, Paresh Rawal became a force to reckon with in Bollywood with iconic films like Hera Pheri, Hungama, OMG: Oh My God! and Sanju. But despite his Bollywood success, he never lost touch with his Gujarati roots, delivering powerful performances in regional films like Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Wrong Side Raju and the much-loved Dear Father.
With a career spanning over four decades, countless awards and an unmatched legacy, Paresh Rawal isn’t just an actor—he’s an institution. Whether he’s playing a clueless Babu Bhaiya or a shrewd businessman, one thing’s certain—if he’s in the film, we’re watching!
Malhar Thakar – The Youth Icon
If Gujarati cinema had a boy-next-door award, Malhar Thakar would win it every year! Charming, relatable and effortlessly funny, he’s the face of modern Gujarati films, making audiences laugh, cry and fall in love—all at once.
His journey began with the cult favourite Chhello Divas and since then, he has given one hit after another, including Love Ni Bhavai, Shu Thayu? and Vash. Whether he’s playing a confused lover, an ambitious youngster or a guy caught in bizarre situations, Malhar nails every role with ease.
Beyond films, he’s also active in theatre and web series, proving he’s more than just a rom-com hero. With his relatable performances and undeniable screen presence, Malhar Thakar isn’t just an actor—he’s a mood! If you love lighthearted entertainment with just the right amount of Gujarati tadka, Malhar’s films are a must-watch.
Dilip Joshi – Our Very Own Jethalal
You hear “Aye Bapuji!” and instantly know who we’re talking about—Dilip Joshi, the man who made Jethalal a household name. But while Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah turned him into a national icon, his journey in acting goes way beyond Gokuldham Society.
Starting with small roles in Bollywood, Dilip Joshi has shared the screen with legends in films like Maine Pyaar Kiya, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! and Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani. However, his heart has always been close to Gujarati cinema and theatre, where he honed his impeccable comic timing.
His ability to make audiences laugh effortlessly is unmatched, whether in TV, films or on stage. Despite being synonymous with Jethalal, his acting range proves he’s much more than just one iconic role. A true entertainer through and through, Dilip Joshi continues to bring joy to millions—one hilarious expression at a time!
Prachi Desai – The Bollywood Star with Gujarati Roots
From Indian television’s sweetheart to Bollywood’s graceful diva, Prachi Desai’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She first won hearts as Bani in Kasamh Se, proving that talent needs no grand launch—just the right role and sheer dedication!
Bollywood soon took notice and she made a smashing debut with Rock On!!, holding her own alongside seasoned actors. From Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai to Bol Bachchan and Azhar, she has played everything from a supportive wife to a bold, confident woman. Despite her Bollywood success, Prachi remains deeply connected to her Gujarati roots and continues to inspire young actors from the region.
With her elegance, versatility and effortless charm, Prachi Desai has carved a niche for herself in the industry. Whether it’s TV, films or OTT, she continues to shine—because let’s be honest, once a star, always a star!
Yash Soni – The Romantic Hero
If there’s one actor who has redefined romance in modern Gujarati cinema, it’s Yash Soni. With his boy-next-door charm and effortless acting, he has become a fan favourite, especially among the youth.
His big break came with Chhello Divas, a film that resonated with an entire generation. Since then, he has continued to impress with hits like Days of Tafree, Naadi Dosh and Fakt Mahilao Maate. Whether he’s playing a carefree college student or a hopeless romantic, Yash brings a natural ease to his performances, making them feel real and relatable.
Beyond his charming looks and smooth dialogue delivery, Yash has proven he’s here to stay, experimenting with diverse roles in Gujarati cinema. With each film, he continues to grow and if his track record is anything to go by, the best is yet to come!
Disha Vakani – The Queen of Quirk
“Aye halo! Tappu ke papa!”—one line and you can already hear Disha Vakani’s unmistakable voice ringing in your ears! Best known as Daya Ben from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, she turned a quirky, lovable character into a cultural phenomenon.
But Disha’s talent goes beyond just her iconic garba-loving, laughter-filled avatar. Before TMKOC, she was a well-known name in Gujarati theatre and had appeared in Bollywood films like Jodhaa Akbar and Devdas. Her impeccable comic timing, unique voice and unmatched expressions make her a one-of-a-kind performer.
Though she’s been away from the screen for a while, her impact remains strong—fans are still eagerly waiting for her comeback. Whether it’s in TV, films or theatre, Disha Vakani has proved that true talent always leaves a lasting impression. After all, there’s only one Daya Ben and no one can replace her!
Supriya Pathak – The Powerhouse Performer
From the ever-hilarious Hansa Parekh in Khichdi to the fierce Dhankor Baa in Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Supriya Pathak’s versatility is nothing short of legendary. With a career spanning decades, she has seamlessly balanced comedy, drama and intense character roles across Gujarati and Bollywood cinema.
Born into a family of theatre stalwarts, acting runs in her veins and she proves it with every performance. Whether she’s making us laugh with her iconic “Praful, samajhne ki koshish karo” or giving us chills in intense roles, Supriya Pathak remains an actress who commands attention and admiration.
Manoj Joshi – The Veteran Actor
A master of comedy and drama alike, Manoj Joshi is one of Gujarati cinema’s most respected actors. From rib-tickling performances in Bollywood comedies like Hungama and Hera Pheri to intense roles in Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Samaantar, his acting range is remarkable.
Starting his journey in Gujarati theatre, he quickly became a household name, known for his impeccable comic timing and powerful screen presence. With numerous awards and decades in the industry, Manoj Joshi continues to be a force to reckon with—because whether it’s humour or drama, he always delivers!
A Taste of Gujarat with Ajay’s Cafe
Just like Gujarati cinema has its icons, Ajay’s Cafe is the go-to place for iconic flavours! Whether you’re binge-watching your favourite stars or catching up with friends, nothing pairs better than the best cold coffee and the best burger in town. Just like Gujarati cinema is expanding its reach, Ajay’s Cafe is also rapidly growing across Gujarat. With 186+ outlets in 50+ cities, it has become a household name. The love for its flavours is evident as over 2.30 crore coffees, 2.80 crore burgers and 1.10 crore pizzas have been served, making it a favourite across the state. So, next time you’re craving a cinematic experience for your taste buds, head to Ajay’s Cafe—where every sip and bite is a blockbuster hit!
Wrapping Up
Gujarati cinema continues to thrive, thanks to these incredible actors who have taken it to greater heights. Whether through folk-inspired dramas, modern romantic tales or Bollywood crossovers, they continue to make us proud.
And just like a great film needs a fantastic cast, a great meal needs the perfect flavours. At Ajay’s Cafe, we serve up crowd-favourite burgers, cheesy pizzas and refreshing cold coffee—perfect for any mood. Whether you’re celebrating a blockbuster hit or just catching up with friends, drop by and indulge in the taste of comfort, one bite at a time!
