Arjun Rampal is once again turning heads with his latest style evolution. From the intense and intimidating Major Iqbal in Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge to his more relaxed, stylish and effortlessly cool avatar off screen, the actor continues to prove that his screen presence works across dramatically different looks.
From Major Iqbal to ‘Daddy Cool’: Arjun Rampal Has Range
There is something unmistakably Arjun Rampal about the actor’s latest looks. One moment, he can appear cold, calculated and intimidating as Major Iqbal; the next, he can switch into a relaxed, stylish avatar that brings out his model-like charm.
Rampal’s portrayal of Major Iqbal became one of the talking points around the Dhurandhar franchise. His performance has been described as controlled and menacing, with the character becoming a major part of the franchise’s conflict. (India Today)
His look — particularly the heavy beard, sunglasses and understated styling — helped create the character’s imposing screen presence.
Major Iqbal Gave Arjun Rampal a Powerful New Avatar
Arjun Rampal played Major Iqbal in Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar and returned in Dhurandhar: The Revenge, where the character received considerably more attention.
The sequel’s release in March 2026 brought renewed attention to Rampal’s performance, with critics and audiences discussing his portrayal of the film’s formidable antagonist.
What made the look particularly effective was its restraint. Rather than relying entirely on exaggerated villain styling, Rampal’s character was presented with a relatively controlled appearance that matched the character’s calculated personality.
And Then Comes the ‘Daddy Cool’ Energy
Away from the intense Major Iqbal persona, Rampal’s off-screen fashion brings out a completely different side of the actor.
His tall frame, sharp features, textured hair and understated fashion have long contributed to his status as one of Bollywood’s most recognisable style personalities.
That contrast is what makes the latest looks interesting: Major Iqbal is all menace, while the Daddy Cool avatar is all attitude.
The actor has also been experimenting with different sides of his personality outside acting. In 2026, Rampal attracted attention for his DJ appearances, showing another side of his public persona beyond his film roles.
Arjun Rampal’s Transformation Has Always Been a Talking Point
Transformation is nothing new for Rampal.
For his 2017 film Daddy, in which he portrayed gangster-turned-politician Arun Gawli, the actor underwent a significant physical transformation. Rampal revealed at the time that he lost around 11 kilograms to achieve the required appearance for the role
That transformation demonstrated how seriously the actor approaches character appearances.
Years later, his Major Iqbal look shows the same willingness to use physical appearance, costume and styling as part of the performance.
Why Arjun Rampal’s Two Looks Are Getting Attention
The appeal isn’t simply about clothes or facial hair. It is about how differently Rampal can communicate through his appearance.
Major Iqbal
- Heavy beard
- Sunglasses
- Military-inspired styling
- Dark and muted wardrobe
- Intimidating body language
- Controlled expressions
- Cold, authoritative screen presence
Daddy Cool Avatar
- Relaxed styling
- Contemporary fashion
- Effortless confidence
- Model-like appearance
- More approachable personality
- Casual but polished aesthetic
The contrast highlights why Rampal continues to be an interesting casting choice for dramatically different characters.
Arjun Rampal’s Career Is Entering Another Strong Phase
Rampal has been acting for more than two decades, but the Dhurandhar franchise has brought a fresh wave of attention to his work.
His filmography has included romantic dramas, action films, thrillers, gangster stories and character-driven roles. He has also played antagonistic characters in films such as Om Shanti Om, Raajneeti and Dhaakad.
With Dhurandhar and Dhurandhar: The Revenge, however, his portrayal of Major Iqbal has added another memorable antagonist to that list.
Two Looks, One Arjun Rampal
From Major Iqbal’s calculated menace to the actor’s relaxed Daddy Cool energy, Arjun Rampal continues to demonstrate that his biggest strength may be his ability to completely change the mood simply by changing the look.
And that’s exactly why his latest photos are getting attention.
One actor. Two completely different energies. Same unmistakable Arjun Rampal swagger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Arjun Rampal playing in Dhurandhar?
Arjun Rampal plays Major Iqbal, a major antagonist in the Dhurandhar franchise. His performance received significant attention, particularly after Dhurandhar: The Revenge.
Why is Arjun Rampal’s Major Iqbal look popular?
The Major Iqbal look combines a heavy beard, sunglasses, muted clothing and controlled body language, creating an intimidating and distinctive appearance.
Did Arjun Rampal play Arun Gawli?
Yes. Rampal portrayed gangster and politician Arun Gawli in the 2017 film Daddy. He underwent a substantial physical transformation for the role. (Scroll.in)
What makes Arjun Rampal’s latest look different from Major Iqbal?
While Major Iqbal has a darker, more intimidating appearance, Rampal’s newer off-screen style is more relaxed, contemporary and fashion-forward — giving him a distinctly “Daddy Cool” vibe.
Is Arjun Rampal returning as Major Iqbal?
Yes. Rampal returned as Major Iqbal in Dhurandhar: The Revenge, released in March 2026. (Bollywood Hungama)
