Lagaan cast then and now: Where are they 25 years later?

As Lagaan turns 25, the film is set for a theatrical re-release and a reunion of the people who made it unforgettable. On that note, here's a look at what the villagers of Champaner are doing in 2026.

In Short

• Lagaan to complete 25 years with re-release on June 12
• Aamir Khan to host grand reunion in Mumbai on June 13
• Reunion includes entire cast, crew, and contributors

Twenty-five years after Lagaan brought together a motley group of villagers to take on the British in a game of cricket, the film's cast remains as memorable as the story itself. While Aamir Khan went on to become one of Indian cinema's biggest stars, many of his co-actors took vastly different paths – some found success in television and international projects, some moved behind the camera, while others gradually stepped away from the spotlight.

As Lagaan prepares to mark its silver jubilee on June 15, the film is set for a celebratory homecoming. According to a report, Aamir Khan is planning a special reunion for the cast and crew, alongside a theatrical re-release of the film on June 12. The reunion, expected to take place in Mumbai on June 13, is reportedly being envisioned as a tribute to everyone who helped bring the landmark film to life.

As the landmark film approaches its 25th anniversary, here's a look at where the iconic cast of Lagaan is today.

Aamir Khan (Bhuvan)

As the determined farmer who united an entire village, Aamir Khan delivered one of the defining performances of his career. In the years that followed, he cemented his position as one of Hindi cinema's most influential stars with films such as 3 Idiots, PK and Dangal. He also expanded his role as a producer, backing projects including Laapataa Ladies and Sitaare Zameen Par.

Aamir was last seen in a cameo in Rajinikanth's 2025 film Coolie. He played Dahaa, the global syndicate master.

Gracy Singh (Gauri)

Gracy Singh's portrayal of Gauri made her an overnight favourite with audiences. After Lagaan, she appeared in films such as Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. and Armaan, before gradually stepping away from mainstream Bollywood. In later years, she focused on television, most notably the mythological series Santoshi Maa (2015), while also pursuing spiritual interests through the Brahma Kumaris.

Rachel Shelley (Elizabeth Russell)

In Lagaan, Rachel Shelley won hearts as Elizabeth Russell, the British woman who chose empathy over privilege and helped the villagers learn cricket.

Following the film, she gained international recognition for her role as Helena Peabody in the 2004 US drama The L Word. She has continued to work across British and international television and most recently appeared in the acclaimed Netflix series Kohrra.

Paul Blackthorne (Captain Andrew Russell)

Paul Blackthorne's Captain Russell remains one of Hindi cinema's most memorable colonial antagonists. After Lagaan, he built a successful career in Western television with shows such as ER, 24 and Arrow. He continues to work in television and often recalls his time on Lagaan fondly.

Suhasini Mulay (Yashodamai)

A respected performer long before Lagaan, Suhasini Mulay has continued to be a familiar face in Indian cinema. Her credits include films such as Dil Chahta Hai, Jodhaa Akbar and Mohenjo Daro. She remains active, balancing mainstream and independent projects.

Kulbhushan Kharbanda (Raja Puran Singh)

The veteran actor brought dignity and warmth to Raja Puran Singh, the local ruler who backed the villagers. Over the years, Kulbhushan Kharbanda has continued working across films, theatre and Punjabi cinema. Recent appearances include Kareena Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Tabu's 2024 film The Crew and 2025's heist drama Jewel Thief - The Heist Begins.

Raghubir Yadav (Bhura)

Raghubir Yadav's Bhura added humour and heart to the team. The actor has since delivered acclaimed performances in films and television, with audiences particularly embracing him as Pradhan Ji in the acclaimed Prime Video show Panchayat. He remains one of India's most respected character actors.

Yashpal Sharma (Lakha)

Lakha's redemption arc remains one of Lagaan's most memorable subplots. Yashpal Sharma has gone on to build a prolific career, appearing in films such as Gangaajal, Chandu Champion and Bastar: The Naxal Story, while continuing to work in television. He also stepped into the Telugu film industry in 2007, with the film Lakshyam.

Amin Hajee (Bagha)

Known for playing the lovable drummer Bagha, Amin Hajee later expanded into writing, directing and producing. He made his directorial debut with the 2021 thriller Koi Jaane Na. Hajee also co-wrote Shah Rukh Khan's 2004 film Swades.

Aditya Lakhia (Kachra)

As Kachra, the ostracised spinner whose bowling changes the course of the match, Aditya Lakhia delivered one of the film's most memorable performances. He has continued acting in films, advertisements and independent productions over the years.

Others who remain fondly remembered

Several members of the ensemble have continued acting across film, television and theatre, including Raj Zutshi, Akhilendra Mishra, Dayashankar Pandey and Pradeep Singh Rawat.

Meanwhile, some beloved cast members are no longer with us. Rajesh Vivek (Guran) died in 2016, Shri Vallabh Vyas (Ishwar Kaka) died in 2018, and Javed Khan Amrohi (Ram Singh) died in 2023. Veteran actor AK Hangal, who played Shambu Kaka, died in 2012.

Released in 2001 and directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India remains one of Bollywood's most celebrated productions. Twenty-five years later, the film remains more than just a film about cricket.

Set in 1893 during British rule, the period drama followed a group of villagers who challenge their colonial rulers to a game of cricket in an attempt to avoid paying oppressive taxes. The film went on to earn global acclaim and secured an Academy Award nomination in the Best Foreign Language Film category.

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