Happy Birthday Rakesh Roshan: A Remarkable Director

Rakesh Roshan is the epitome of a hard-working man- be it acting in films such as Khoobsurat (1980), Khatta Meetha (1978) and Kaamchor (1982), or directing hits such as Karan Arjun (1995), Koi... Mil Gaya (2003), Krrish (2006).Today, as Rakesh Roshan turns a year older, we present before you some of his most memorable directorial ventures.

It was in 1970 that Rakesh Roshan kick-started his association with the grand and glamourous world of Hindi cinema when he played a supporting role in the Balraj Sahni starrer ‘Ghar Ghar Ki Kahaani’. In the years that followed, the actor carved a niche for himself thanks to some underrated yet extremely sincere performances in films such as Khoobsurat, Akhir Kyon? and Kamchor. Moreover, he gave strong proof of his acting talents holding his own against some of Indian cinema’s biggest names such as Rajesh Khanna and Rajinikanth.

However, as most of his movies featured him in supporting/character roles, ‘Guddu’ never got the kind of recognition he deserved. Luckily, Roshan’s career received a new lease of life when he made his directorial debut with Khudgarz. Released in 1987, it was praised by critics and audiences alike. Today, as Rakesh Roshan turns a year older, we present before you some of his most memorable directorial ventures.

#Karan Arjun: Regarded as one of the evergreen classics of Indian cinema, ‘Karan Arjun’ highlighted the supernatural phenomena of reincarnation. Featuring Salman and Shah Rukh Khan in lead roles, the film found tremendous success at the box office, bagging several Filmfare nominations. Interestingly, a few years ago Telugu filmmaker SS Rajamouli stated that Karan Arjun was the inspiration behind his Magadheera.

#Kaho Na Pyaar Hai: Serving as strong proof of Rakesh Roshan's abilities as a storyteller, Kaho Na Pyaar Hai revolved around a charismatic singer who decides to help an orphan avenge the murder of his brother. A commercial success, the film marked the Bollywood debut of the filmmaker’s son and current superstar Hrithik. Interestingly, Kaho Na Pyaar Hai helped Rakesh bag the Filmfare award for best director.

#Koi Mil Gaya: Best remembered for its surreal yet heartwarming plot, this science fiction film went a long way in making Hrithik Roshan a popular name amongst the younger generation. Also featuring Preity Zinta and Rekha in important roles, the movie was screened at the Jerusalem Film festival. A big money spinner, it was followed by two sequels ‘Krrish’ and ‘Krrish 3’. Interestingly, both of them were directed by Rakesh Roshan himself and fared well on the commercial front.

#Koyla: Touted as a thriller, Koyla created quite a stir amongst movie buffs courtesy its hard-hitting storyline and mature performances. A runaway hit at the box office, it featured Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit in the lead. This was Roshan’s third collaboration with King Khan. They had previously joined hands for Karan Arjun and King Uncle.

#Khoon Bhari Maang: Based on the popular Australian mini-series Return of Eden, Khoon Bhari Maang gave new life to Rekha’s then fading career. Boasting of a pulsating plot and riveting screenplay, it highlighted the old adage that “hell hath no fury like a woman scorned”. A critical and commercial success, the movie won as many as three Filmfare awards.

Wishing the filmmaker a very happy birthday.

Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan