Lajja Shankar Pandey: The Most Psychotic Villain in Bollywood?

I recently rewatched *Sangharsh* (1999), and I can't help but marvel at how brilliantly Ashutosh Rana brought Lajja Shankar Pandey to life. His portrayal of the psychotic religious fanatic still gives me chills. That scream, those haunting expressions, and the sheer malevolence of the character—it all made Pandey one of the most disturbing villains in Bollywood history. What stands out about Lajja Shankar Pandey is how he's not just "evil for the sake of it." His actions are fueled by twisted religious ideologies, making him a critique of blind faith and fanaticism. Ashutosh Rana nailed every scene with such intensity that even decades later, this character remains unforgettable. It makes me wonder—can Bollywood (or Indian cinema in general) ever create a villain as terrifying and psychologically complex as Lajja Shankar Pandey again? In today's era of more nuanced cinema, would a character like this even work, or would it feel over the top? Also, let’s take a moment to appreciate Ashutosh Rana's acting skills. The man is a powerhouse, and he deserves so much more credit for giving us such iconic performances. What are your thoughts? Do you think Lajja Shankar Pandey is one of the most psychotic villains in Bollywood? And are there any other characters you think come close to this level of madness? Would love to hear your opinions!