​Ajith Kumar's decade of box office dominance: A look at his last 10 blockbusters before winning the Padma Bhushan​

In a stellar recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema, Ajith Kumar, one of Tamil cinema's most celebrated actors, has been honored with the prestigious Padma Bhushan. Over the past decade, Ajith has not only charmed audiences with his versatility but has also consistently delivered blockbusters that have redefined box office success in Tamil Nadu and beyond. Here’s a look at Ajith Kumar’s last ten blockbusters that solidified his stature as a dominant force in the film industry:

Ajith’s iconic salt-and-pepper look in Mankatha redefined style in Tamil cinema. Ajith’s 50th film was a game-changer. Directed by Venkat Prabhu, Mankatha saw Ajith in a negative role for the first time, playing a corrupt cop involved in a high-stakes heist. With its gripping narrative, stylish execution, and punchy dialogues ("It's my game!"), the film became a cult classic and a massive box office hit. Box Office: ₹100+ crore. Why it stands out: Ajith's effortless portrayal of a gray-shaded character made this one of his most memorable roles.

Ajith’s menacing look as the feared don, David Billa, in Billa II. A prequel to the blockbuster Billa (2007), this film explored the origin story of David Billa, showing his rise from a refugee to an international don. Though the film received mixed reviews, Ajith’s screen presence and action sequences were widely praised, making it a commercial success. Box Office: ₹90+ crore. Highlight scene: The "I am Billa" moment sent fans into a frenzy!

Ajith in his rugged, rural avatar—raw, powerful, and emotional. This mass masala entertainer directed by Siva saw Ajith in an all-out family-action drama. He played Vinayagam, a fearless elder brother, who would go to any extent to protect his family. With action, comedy, and sentiment packed together, the film won over both mass and family audiences. Box Office: ₹130+ crore. Why it worked: Ajith’s massy dialogues, larger-than-life action sequences, and emotional connection with the audience.

Ajith as ACP Sathyadev, a cop with a dark past and intense action sequences. Collaborating with Gautham Vasudev Menon, Ajith delivered one of his most intense performances as a cop caught between duty, love, and revenge. The film’s soulful music by Harris Jayaraj, coupled with a gripping screenplay, made it a critically acclaimed blockbuster. Box Office: ₹110+ crore

Ajith’s 'Theri Mass' look in Vedalam—celebration of heroism at its peak. With Ajith’s iconic "Theri Mass" transformation, Vedalam was an explosive action drama that became a Diwali blockbuster. Ajith’s dual-shaded role as a caring brother and a brutal vigilante made it one of his career-best performances. Box Office: ₹150+ crore. Biggest Strength: Ajith’s "Aaluma Doluma" dance, which became an anthem for fans!

Ajith’s super-fit transformation in Vivegam stunned fans. This high-octane action thriller, shot across Europe, saw Ajith in his most physically demanding role yet. Playing an elite counter-terrorism agent, his intense workout routine, ripped physique, and daredevil stunts made headlines. Though the film had a mixed response, it was a global success. Box Office: ₹170+ crore. Fan favorite: The "Never Give Up" attitude that inspired many.

Ajith in his dual-shaded avatar—soft-hearted father vs. fierce warrior. This sentimental family drama saw Ajith in a never-seen-before emotional role. Playing Thookudurai, a doting father, he impressed audiences with his blend of mass appeal and emotional depth. Released alongside Rajinikanth’s Petta, Viswasam ended up outperforming at the Tamil Nadu box office, proving Ajith’s dominance. Box Office: ₹180+ crore. Biggest win: It became a family favorite, with strong female audience support.

Ajith as Bharath Subramaniam, a lawyer fighting for justice. A remake of Bollywood’s Pink, this film saw Ajith in a restrained yet powerful role as a lawyer defending three women against false allegations. The film had a strong social message on women’s rights, and Ajith’s performance was widely appreciated. Box Office: ₹150+ crore. Why it’s special: It proved that Ajith could take on socially relevant roles beyond action films.

Ajith as a daredevil cop, performing mind-blowing bike stunts. One of the most anticipated films, Valimai showcased Ajith in a high-speed bike-chasing action role. Though delayed due to the pandemic, it created massive pre-release buzz and emerged as a box-office winner. Box Office: ₹220+ crore. Highlight: The action sequences, especially the bike chases, were Hollywood-level.

Ajith in his rebellious, heist-thriller avatar in Thunivu. This bank heist thriller had Ajith playing an outlaw with a hidden motive. With unexpected twists and a gripping screenplay, Thunivu became a Pongal 2023 hit, clashing with Vijay’s Varisu and still emerging as successful. Box Office: ₹200+ cr. Why fans loved it: Ajith’s fearless, unpredictable character, proving he’s still the king of mass cinema.

Ajith Kumar received the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to cinema. Actor Ajith’s journey is not just about box office numbers but about his evolution as an actor and his unwavering fan base. The Padma Bhushan is a well-deserved recognition of his dedication to Tamil cinema and his impact on generations of moviegoers.