The actor shot to fame by playing the anti-hero Bhikhu Mhatre and went on to win two National awards for "Satya" and "Pinjar" in 1994 and 2004 respectively. But, he suffered a slump after that, only to find a resurrection in Prakash Jha directed "Raajneeti" in 2010.
Bajpai has no regrets about getting a late recognition for his talent and has reconciled himself to the fickle nature of film industry.