Indian cinema has always celebrated mythology, folklore, and fantasy. One of the most fascinating characters has been the Naagin, or shape-shifting serpent woman.
Over the decades, several leading Bollywood actresses have portrayed Naagin characters in films. Their performances left lasting impressions on audiences and created unforgettable cinematic moments.
From Sridevi’s groundbreaking role in Nagina to Mallika Sherawat’s bold transformation in Hisss, the Naagin character has remained an integral part of Bollywood’s fantasy genre.
This article explores how iconic actresses like Sridevi, Rekha, Meenakshi Sheshadri, Manisha Koirala, Juhi Chawla, Mallika Sherawat, and Mandakini brought these mystical roles to life.
Sridevi in Nagina: A Defining Performance
When discussing Naagin roles in Bollywood, one cannot ignore Sridevi. Her performance in the 1986 film Nagina is often regarded as the gold standard.
Sridevi played an ichchadhari Naagin who sought revenge for her loved one. Her mesmerizing dance sequences, particularly “Main Teri Dushman,” are remembered as some of the finest in Bollywood.
She also took a big risk for the role by wearing special lenses to give her eyes a serpent-like look. Reports suggested the lenses were uncomfortable and caused her difficulty, yet her dedication paid off. The film remains one of the most iconic fantasy movies in Bollywood.
Meenakshi Sheshadri in Naache Naagin Gali Gali
Another celebrated actress who embraced the Naagin role was Meenakshi Sheshadri. In Naache Naagin Gali Gali, she brought elegance and intensity to the screen.
Her portrayal captured the mystical allure of the serpent woman while maintaining grace and emotion. Though the film did not become as iconic as Nagina, her performance added to the legacy of Naagin characters in Indian cinema.
Mandakini in Nag Naagin
Mandakini, remembered for her memorable roles in the 1980s, also portrayed a Naagin. She played the mystical character in the film Nag Naagin, where she starred opposite Rajiv Kapoor.
Her delicate yet strong screen presence added to the emotional weight of the film. Audiences appreciated her performance, and the movie cemented her place among actresses who took on the challenge of playing this unique role.
Manisha Koirala in Jaani Dushman
The 2002 fantasy action film Jaani Dushman: Ek Anokhi Kahani featured Manisha Koirala as a Naagin.
In the film, she played an ichchadhari Naagin seeking revenge for her lover’s death. Though the movie received mixed reviews, her presence gave depth to the fantasy-driven storyline.
Manisha’s role showcased how Bollywood continued experimenting with Naagin characters even in modern times.
Reena Roy in Naagin
The 1976 film Naagin remains a landmark in Bollywood’s supernatural genre. Reena Roy played the lead role as a shape-shifting Naagin who avenges her partner’s death.
Her performance was widely appreciated, and the film became a box-office success. It also established Naagin films as a genre that combined folklore, drama, and spectacle.
Reena Roy’s Naagin remains one of the most memorable portrayals in Hindi cinema history.
Juhi Chawla in Tum Mere Ho
In the 1990 film Tum Mere Ho, Juhi Chawla played a Naagin opposite Aamir Khan.
The film explored the love story between a man with mystical powers and a shape-shifting serpent woman. While the film did not perform strongly at the box office, Juhi’s portrayal added charm and emotional depth.
Her role demonstrated how even mainstream romantic heroines were willing to explore supernatural characters.
Mallika Sherawat in Hisss
In 2010, Mallika Sherawat took on the Naagin role in the Hollywood-Indian co-production Hisss.
This film reimagined the Naagin legend with modern visual effects and an international appeal. Mallika’s transformation into a serpent creature drew significant attention.
Her bold portrayal of the mystical character was different from the traditional Bollywood Naagin. The film may not have received critical acclaim, but Mallika’s daring performance ensured it remained memorable.
Rekha in Sheshnag
Legendary actress Rekha also embraced the Naagin character in the 1990 film Sheshnag. She starred alongside Jeetendra in this fantasy drama.
Her elegance, powerful expressions, and screen presence elevated the role. Rekha’s performance demonstrated how leading actresses of her era could balance glamour, intensity, and mythology in one role.
Sheshnag remains a classic in Bollywood’s fantasy filmography, largely due to Rekha’s contribution.
The Allure of Naagin Roles in Bollywood
Naagin films have always fascinated audiences because they combine elements of mythology, revenge, and romance.
Actresses who took on these roles often stepped out of their comfort zones, experimenting with challenging performances, elaborate costumes, and demanding dance sequences.
For stars like Sridevi, Rekha, and Reena Roy, these roles added legendary status to their careers. For others like Juhi Chawla and Mallika Sherawat, the Naagin character provided opportunities to explore new dimensions of acting.
From the 1970s to the present, Bollywood’s portrayal of the Naagin has evolved. Special effects have improved, storytelling has changed, but the fascination with the shape-shifting serpent woman remains strong.
Actresses like Sridevi, Meenakshi Sheshadri, Mandakini, Manisha Koirala, Reena Roy, Juhi Chawla, Mallika Sherawat, and Rekha have all contributed to this unique legacy.
Their performances ensured that the Naagin remains not just a character, but a cultural phenomenon in Indian cinema.
For today’s audiences and future generations, these films serve as reminders of how Bollywood blended folklore with fantasy, giving us timeless stories and unforgettable heroines.
