This is the story of the ‘Greek God’ of Bollywood, Hrithik Roshan, and his father Rakesh Roshan, whose courageous gamble not only saved a career but also gave Hindi cinema its first successful science-fiction franchise.

From the Peak of ‘Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai’ to a String of Failures

In the year 2000, when ‘Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai’ was released, Hrithik Roshan became an overnight superstar. His dancing prowess and acting skills were seen as a direct challenge to the dominance of the reigning Khans. However, this success seemed short-lived.

Following his debut, a series of films including Fiza, Mission Kashmir, Yaadein, Aap Mujhe Achche Lagne Lage, and Mujhse Dosti Karoge crashed at the box office. Trade analysts began labeling Hrithik a “one-film wonder.” Aside from the multi-starrer Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, his solo career was staring at a dead end.

Rakesh Roshan’s Masterstroke: The Birth of ‘Koi… Mil Gaya’

When the industry was ready to write Hrithik off, his father, veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, took a risk that was considered unthinkable for Bollywood at the time. He chose a story about a developmentally disabled young man who befriends an alien named ‘Jadoo’.

In an era dominated by romantic dramas and action films, investing heavily in science fiction was seen as a financial suicide. However, Rakesh Roshan had unwavering faith in his vision and his son’s talent. He brought in Hollywood technicians and created a character in ‘Jadoo’ that captured the hearts of children and adults alike.

42 Awards and the Iconic Character of ‘Rohit’

Playing ‘Rohit Mehra’ was no easy feat for Hrithik. He had to shed his muscular, “chocolate boy” image to portray the innocence and vulnerability of a man-child. Hrithik embraced the challenge, and the result was historic.

• Award Sweep: The film won a staggering 42 awards across various ceremonies.
• National Recognition: It was honored with 3 National Film Awards.
• Box Office Performance: The movie grossed approximately ₹75 crore worldwide, making it the highest-grossing film of 2003.

The Legacy: Building the ‘Krrish’ Franchise

The success of Koi… Mil Gaya did more than just revive Hrithik’s career; it laid the foundation for India’s first superhero, ‘Krrish’. The subsequent sequels proved that whenever this father-son duo collaborates, they redefine the equations of the Indian box office.

Disclaimer

This article is based on historical cinematic data and media reports. It is intended for informational purposes regarding the journey of Indian cinema. The author does not claim commercial ownership of the facts mentioned.

The post The Superstar Whose Sinking Career Was Rescued by His Father’s 42-Award-Winning ‘Cult Classic’ appeared first on Mission Ki Awaaz.

A Struggle-filled Childhood and Early Life

Legendary Hindi cinema actor Dharmendra was born on December 8, 1935, in Phagwara, Punjab. His family was completely away from films, but he had a deep fascination with cinema from an early age. During his school days, Dharmendra would often appear in cinema halls instead of class. He completed his primary education at Arya High School and Ramgarhia School in Phagwara.

Before entering the film industry, Dharmendra worked in several ordinary jobs. Upon arriving in Mumbai, he had no home and worked in a drilling firm for a monthly salary of only 200 rupees. This amount was not enough to sustain his life, so he had to work overtime.

Film Debut and Early Struggles

Dharmendra began his acting career in 1960 with the film Dil Bhi Tera Main Bhi Tera. Although his first film did not receive much recognition, he subsequently earned roles in films like Shola Aur Shabnam, which brought him popularity in the industry.

During his early days of struggle, he lived in a small room in Juhu. Subsequently, films like Anpadh, Bandini, Surat, and Seerat, released in 1962 and 1963, brought Dharmendra to the attention of audiences. He achieved real stardom with O.P. Ralhan’s Phool Aur Patthar, released in 1966.

Multifaceted Acting and List of Films

Dharmendra acted in films of various genres—whether it was a serious and honest character in Satyakam, an action hero in Sholay, or a comical character in Chupke Chupke. He performed his own stunts and even engaged in a live-action fight with a leopard in Chinnappa Devar’s Maa.Some of his most memorable films include:

• Anupama,
• Manjhli Didi ,
• Satyakam,
• Sholay,
• Chupke Chupke.

Dharmendra has appeared in over 200 films and established his unique identity in Bollywood.

Actor Dharmendra Political Life

Dharmendra has also ventured into politics alongside his acting career. In 2004, he contested the election from Bikaner, Rajasthan, on a BJP ticket, winning, and represented the people in the Lok Sabha for five years.

Actor Dharmendra Family Life

Dharmendra has been married twice. He has three children with his first wife, Prakash Kaur—sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol—and daughter Ajita Deol. Both sons are active in Hindi films. His second wife is renowned Bollywood actress Hema Malini, with whom he has two daughters—Esha and Ahana Deol. Both daughters are married.

Honors and Awards

Dharmendra has received numerous awards for his outstanding acting. He was honored with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award and the Padma Bhushan by the Government of India.

Recent and Major Films

Dharmendra has remained active in films in recent years. Some of his notable recent films include:

• Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023, Karan Johar)
• Dunky (2023, Rajkumar Hirani)
• Yamla Pagla Deewana: Phir Se (2018, Navneet Singh)
• Poster Boys (2017, Shreyas Talpade)
• Ghayal Once Again (2016, Sunny Deol)

Dharmendra’s film career continues with new projects and memorable films.

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The post Dharmendra Biography: Age, Education, Family, Career, Net Worth, and Awards appeared first on Mission Ki Awaaz.