Celebrated as the quintessential superstar of Indian cinema, Hrithik Roshan has left an indelible mark on the film industry with his compelling performances over the past 20 years. As we honor his legacy on his birthday, it’s time to reminisce about the versatile roles that have defined his illustrious career.
Hrithik Roshan made his noteworthy entry into Bollywood as a leading man with the millennial hit ‘Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai’. Prior to his blockbuster debut, he was seen as a child artist in projects helmed by his father, renowned director Rakesh Roshan. But it wasn’t just his stunning looks or his impeccable dance moves that caught the public’s eye—it was his ability to bring life to varied characters that garnered him acclaim and a loyal fanbase.
In his very first film, Hrithik donned the dual roles of Rohit, an endearing orphan and aspiring singer with a modest day job, and Raj Chopra, a suave son of an NRI tycoon. His convincing portrayals won him both awards and countless hearts. Throughout his two decades in cinema, he has not limited himself to a particular genre but has instead chosen to play an array of characters.
One of Hrithik’s most memorable performances is that of Rohit Mehra in ‘Koi… Mil Gaya’ (2003), marking Hindi cinema’s maiden voyage into the superhero genre. His sensitive portrayal of a young man grappling with mental health challenges won admiration for its authenticity. The character’s evolution into the superhero Krrish in subsequent sequels captivated the imagination of audiences, especially children, proving Hrithik’s ability to transform into any role.
In ‘Dhoom 2’ (2006), Hrithik stepped into the slick shoes of a master thief, Aryan Singh, with an array of clever disguises and incredible stunts, marking a sharp departure from his earlier roles and showcasing his versatility. His energetic dance performances in the film are still celebrated by fans worldwide. With a stylish swagger, he delivered a portrayal that was both charming and conniving, adding a new dimension to the role of the antagonist in the action-thriller genre.
Treading new territory, Hrithik assumed the role of the Mughal Emperor Akbar in ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ (2008). It was a character that required grace, depth, and a sense of authority, attributes that Hrithik brought forward with aplomb. Set against a lavish historical backdrop, the film was both a critical and commercial success, further solidifying his status as a versatile actor.
In ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara’ (2011), Hrithik depicted the transformation of Arjun Saluja, a workaholic investment banker whose perspective on life changes during a road trip through Spain. His performance was a blend of subtlety and relatability, capturing the nuances of a character on a journey of self-discovery. The film is cherished for its storyline, performances, and the insurmountable bond among its characters.
Another emblematic role came with the film ‘Lakshya’ (2004), where Hrithik portrayed an aimless young adult whose life gains purpose when he joins the Indian army. His portrayal resonated with the youth and inspired many. Even amidst an ensemble of seasoned actors, Hrithik’s performance was highly lauded.
Hrithik further stunned audiences as Anand Kumar in ‘Super 30’ (2019), where he absorbed the mannerisms of the real-life mathematician known for training underprivileged children for IIT entrance examinations. His commitment to mastering the local dialect and altering his appearance showcased his dedication to his craft.
Hrithik’s repertoire includes a plethora of distinctive roles—he has been a paraplegic magician advocating for euthanasia in ‘Guzaarish’, a blind revenge-seeker in ‘Kaabil’, and a charismatic spy in ‘War’. Whether it’s action, romance, comedy, or drama, Hrithik has explored it all, continually pushing the boundaries of his artistic expression.
The superstar’s next cinematic adventure, ‘Fighter’, is eagerly anticipated as India’s first aerial action film. Directed by Siddharth Anand of ‘War’ fame, the film pairs Hrithik with Deepika Padukone for the first time and has already generated immense interest among fans.
On the joyous occasion of his 50th birthday, we celebrate the remarkable career of Hrithik Roshan and look forward to witnessing more of his exceptional talent onscreen. Happy Birthday, Hrithik Roshan!
