Bollywood's First Families

Bollywood is a place where, on a daily basis, thousands of aspiring actors strive to become actors but only few of them make it to the top. 

In an industry where most stars belong to families with a 'filmy' background some of them are lucky to be on top without any filmy background or a godfather.

However, the legacy of filmy families is still followed and it is not a hard task to land a film which is why, belonging to such a family really counts in Bollywood.

In this respect, we bring forth a list of some powerful families that seem to rule Bollywood.

The Kapoors

When it comes to famous Bollywood families, the first one to strike your mind would probably be the Kapoor family. The legacy was started by Prithviraj Kapoor who came to Mumbai to fulfill his dream of being a part of Hindi movies. After a successful run in Bollywood, his sons, the legendary, Raj Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor came forth and leterally ruled over it for almost three decades. Then came the turn of Raj Kapoor's sons Randhir, Rajiv and Rishi Kapoor of whom, Rishi was the most successful in the the industry.

Taking up the Bollywood reins after them was Karisma Kapoor who went on to become one of the top actresses of her time. After Karisma, its younger siblings, Kareena and Ranbir Kapoor who are currently the hottest properties of the Hindi film industry.

The Roshans

The man who gave birth to the Roshan family tree in Bollywood was erstwhile music composer Roshan Lal Nagrath, father of Rakesh and Rajesh Roshan. Better known as Roshan, he composed music for quite a number of films like 'Barsaat Ki Raat' and 'Taj Mahal', and was a successful music director of his time. His two sons carried forward his name with Rakesh Roshan taking up acting and Rajesh Roshan, stepping into his father's shoes as a music director.

After Rakesh and Rajesh Roshan, the responsibility of keeping the Roshan flag flying in Bollywood lies solely on the shoulders of Rakesh Roshan's son, Hrithik Roshan. Hrithik is not only a successful actor but one of the most sought after superstar in the industry.

The Bachchans

The Bachchan family is considered to be the first family of Bollywood despite not having a huge line-up of Bollywood stars like the Kapoors. The Bachchan family, initially, comprised of actors Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan and their son, Abhishek Bachchan. However, this family got a huge boost after Aishwarya Rai became a part of this clan after her marriage to Abhishek Bachchan.

Now, with the announcement of her pregnancy, we're guessing that another generation of the Bachchan family is on its way to take Bollywood by storm.

The Deols

Dharmendra started his very own family tree in Bollywood with his children following in his footsteps very easily. His sons, from his first marriage, took up acting and tasted success. 

However Sunny Deol was much more successful than younger brother Bobby Deol. Esha Deol, his daughter from his second marriage to Hema Malini, is also an actress but not a successful one. In fact, Esha is making her comeback in her mother's directorial, 'Tell Me O Khuda'.

Also a part of the Deol family is Abhay Deol, who is the nephew of Dharmendra. Despite being a part of the family, Abhay is totally different from the rest of his cousins. Instead of action oriented roles and commercial films, Abhay opts for unconventionality in his roles and films. We can easily say, that Abhay Deol is the best actor that the Deol family has produced.

The Mukherjees

When we talk about the Mukherjee family, we instantly think of Kajol, her sister Tanisha and Rani Mukherjee. However, the Mukherjee family goes a long way down in Bollywood history. The family's tryst with Bollywood began with Sha Mukherjee, the founder of the famed Filmistan studios.

His five sons followed him into the industry, one of whom was 60's actor Joy Mukherjee. Shomu Mukherjee, who was a writer/producer/director, married Tanuja who, on the other hand, belonged to the Samarth family and was the younger sister of one of the most celebrated actress of Bollywood, Nutan.

Tanuja's daughters, Kajol and Tanisha also went on to act in movies with Kajol achieving superstardom. Her cousin, Rani Mukherjee is also a sought after actress in Bollywood and like Kajol, she too has created a niche for herself.

The Khans

No, we're not talking about the 'Khans' of the industry but only one family that has contributed to and gained from Bollywood to a great extent. The Khan family being mentioned here is the one started by noted script-writer Salim Khan, more famous as Salman Khan's father today. In collaboration with Javed Akhtar, Salim Khan churned out massive hits like 'Sholay', 'Zanjeer', 'Seeta Aur Geeta' and 'Mr. India'. His second marriage was with yesteryear dancer/actress Helen.

All sons, Salman, Arbaaz and Sohail took to acting but only Salman Khan made it big in the industry. Presently, he holds the record of churning out some of the biggest hits in the past few years and is also the highest paid actor in Bollywood reportedly. After an unsuccessful run in the industry, Arbaaz Khan struck gold with his first production 'Dabangg'.

Another member of the Khan clan who is quite a hot property in the industry is Arbaaz Khan's wife, Malaika Arora-Khan. Her item numbers are always a rage and she is a leading fashionista in the film industry. Apart from being a fully filmy clan, this family is a tight-knit one. (MensXP.com)

Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham sequel soon

Karan Johar has confirmed a tabloid that is, in fact, trying to make a sequel to the hit 2001 Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham. The rest will be presented in the original cast - Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor.

"It's a viable idea. I'm not opposed to it. It would be a brave, if I do," Karan says Mumbai Mirror.

The cast is also all excited about the sequel.

"It's very strange. But all six core members of the cast is so dear to me now as they were 10 years ago when I made the film. I'm sure they are also charged for the sequel, as I am, "said Karan, after unveiling his plans about the sequel.

The idea was planted in his head, one of them.

'Big B made him understand that a suite was not only possible but desirable. Mr. Bachchan also said that Karan could not remove it, "said a source at the tabloid.

Amitabh Bachchan has finally looks his way. 69-year-old actor has already blogged about how he would like to see Raichand family saga, would be carried forward. Recently it was shown that the sequel would be to examine the brothers' life after the split.

"And 'the story of brothers and growth problems that arise in their self-understanding and operation of the business empire, the father of a split in them, and so on ..."

It may be that the Big B's request led him to abandon the idea further. But what could be more attractive is the fact that the sequel, as a double Dhamaal, Murder 2 and Golmaal have done much better than most of the original films.

We will wait to see if they can remove Raichand family again.

 

'Aarakshan' is not dergatory to Scheduled Castes in any way

Filmmaker Prakash Jha wants to have a discussion and dispel the doubts of the National Commission of Scheduled Castes (NCSC), which has sought to see his film "Aarakshan" even before the censor board watches it. The panel wants to confirm that the film has not misinterpreted the constitutional provision for reservations of the socially backward classes. Jha said, having high regard for the commission, he is ready to have a linear discussion to dispel their doubts before arriving at any decision on their demand. "I have heard that they have some doubts. We want to know what doubt they have for which they want to see the film even before the censor board, before the release of the film." "It's a very honorable commission, who are working for human rights and the socially backward classes. I'd like to dispel any suspicions or doubts that they may have. First we should sit together and discuss their doubt, then only I would be able to take any decision," Jha told. Releasing Aug 12, "Aarakshan" is a high voltage socio-political drama based on the most controversial policies of caste-based reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Manoj Bajpai, Deepika Padukone, Pratieik Babbar and Tanvi Azmi play pivotal roles in the film.

Train citizens in anti-terror acts: Amitabh Bachchan

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has urged people to act as policemen and suggested initiating an anti-terror training programme that would help them to fight terrorism and protect themselves.

The actor said he would be the first one to join the anti-terror training programme. His comments come in the wake of the three serial blasts that killed 17 people and injured 131 in Mumbai Wednesday.

"Each one of us will have to become a 'policeman' .. look, notice, observe, feel, sense the danger in every step and report," the 68-year-old posted on microblogging site Twitter.

"Yes the security forces will always be needed, but when vulnerable, let each one of us know that we are being watched and monitored. There are many vulnerable nations in the world ... knowing this they have made each citizen of theirs a watch dog, a fighting force!"

"Let there be private or state professional units that take up the job of training citizens in anti-terror acts... make it compulsory. Make that training programme mandatory for every citizen, every national of the country ... I shall be the first to join," he posted.

'Time to act' say Bollywood celebs!

Yet another ghastly terror attack on Mumbai has angered Mumbaikars and celebs for its pretty evident now that 'Mumbai' is a soft target. Refusing to endorse the indomitable spirit and resilience of the city, everyone's seeking justice and answers from the central government, Mumbai police and Maharashtra government.

Madhavan
Soft targets again... Time for more futile candle marches. Passionate speeches.. News room fodder, Tall orders and finger pointing... And then silence .. Till the next attack... I am angry at myself because I chose our dispassionate leaders and a government incapable of taking any action whatsoever . .and move on and hope and pray that you are not the victim the next time around. It's is sickening to see how quickly we are forced into normalcy. Quickly forget. Little difference between exercising "Calmness" and being incompetent toothless cowards. What would happen if the next of kin of one of our "Calm" leaders were to be a victim. Will they still react so" calmly" and maintain peace. I want Shivaji Maharaj and Subhash Chandra Bose back. Enough of Bapu for the moment.

Sonam Kapoor
What does we can't do anything about terror mean. What an irresponsible and cowardly statement!

Arjun Rampal
Mumbai attacked once again by cowards? Can't understand, if New York and London can make sure it doesn't happen again then why can't we? My condolences and prayers to .all those families whose loved ones have become victims. An emotion of utter helplessness sinks in again.

Aftab Shivdasani
Imagine the anger and pain in the hearts of the families who've lost their loved ones to mindless acts like these. I don't even want to say 'resilience' of the Mumbaikar and all that again.. I want to say.. Time to 'act'.


Farhan Akhtar
I have been receiving random messages about more possible explosions. PLEASE DO NOT CIRCULATE THESE RUMOURS. I hope the Central and State government wake up to Mumbai's continuing woes and do something to help our city get it's confidence back. We can help the Mumbai police department by not spreading rumours. Let's not make it harder for them, They are out there doing their best.


Amitabh Bachchan
Yes we are all hurt and sad and frustrated ! But will sympathy bring back the dead .. it merely rids us of the guilt of helplessness. The bombs did not just drop from the skies! A human, like one of us put it. One of us who breathed and lived in Indian air. Get him!


Priyanka Chopra
I am so saddened by what's happened in Mumbai. My heart wrenches at the thought of what the families of the victims are going throuh..its so wrong. Why do we have to always accept this terrorism? Why are we always told to move on.. I WONT STAND FOR TERROR ANYMORE..and I WILL NOT FORGET! I wish I was back in my city to share this grief.. MUMBAI MERI JAAN

Eesha Koppikhar
Everyone talks about Mumbai's resilience to get back on track everytime some disaster strikes...but honestly do we have any other choice?

Hrithik Roshan
Feeling sad, angry and helpless! I pray for the families of the victims. On a resilient note, I need to believe that there are some good leaders, some good men in position of power out there in the government to guide this city, to do d right thing without getting entangled in the web of politics! Wherever you are please come forth and fight for this city! Rectify the wrongs! Show us the way! The common man needs assurance that you exist!! My MUMBAI needs YOU.... NOW!!

Rajinikanth doesn't need promotion, but we do: Big B

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan admits promoting films has now become as important as making them. However, he feels there are some exceptions like Tamil megastar Rajinikanth who doesn't require such marketing tools. "Promoting films has become as important and time consuming as making them! The element of bringing to notice this vast multitude and inviting them to come and see it within a week, for that is the duration of most films these days, at least as an indicator for their commercial prospects, has now become the yardstick," Amitabh posted on his blog BigB.bigadda.com. "We never had it in our time and neither were we ever conscious of it. It was left to the producer and the distributor how it needed to be exploited. But times have changed now. There is greater awareness as far as communication goes; mediums of which have increased a million fold," he added. The 68-year-old feels that for "lesser mortals like us", promotions are needed to excite audience and get them into theatres. "Rajini, Rajinikanth never indulges in this practice. The practice of promotions. And on occasion when we talk film informally, he often questions me as to why I do this. It's like selling yourself like a product, he often tells me. We laugh over it, but I explain to him that he is Rajinikanth, he does not need it. For him, it happens on its own. For lesser mortals like us, we need to excite audiences, to propel them to take interest, to get them into the theatres!!" he wrote

Amitji loves me too much: Aamir Khan

I have the highest regard for Amitji (Amitabh Bachchan). He is a gentleman and loves me too much. I refuse to believe that he could say anything damaging about my film or me,” says Aamir Khan, on being questioned on a recent post on Bachchan’s blog that supposedly lashes out at Delhi Belly producer’s “immodesty”. 

The actor-producer however admits that there is a section of conservative purists, who have been running down his film. He reasons, “Anyone who’s a youth icon — Elvis Preseley and the Beatles or Madonna and Michael Jackson — has been panned. Saadat Hasan Manto and Ismat Chugtai had criminal cases lodged against them for obscenity. But I refuse to believe that Amitji’s is one of these voices.” 

Pakistan has refused to allow screenings of Delhi Belly. Aamir’s not surprised, as it doesn’t have the “artistic freedom of a democracy”. For him it’s enough that the collections are great in the UK, US, Australia and the Gulf. Back home too, the footfalls have been higher on Monday and Tuesday as compared to Friday. “Going by numbers, Rs 5.65 crore (Monday’s figures) and Rs 5.40 core (Tuesday’s collections) are lower than Rs 7.15 crore (Friday’s gross), but ticket prices drop by 1/3 on weekdays. However, thanks to the strong word-of-mouth, viewers are flocking to theatres even on weekdays, some returning for a repeat. That’s never happened with me in my entire career.” 

Some allege that he’s been manipulating figures. He laughs, “Numbers speak for themselves and you can’t manipulate them. The film is a hit not just in the metros, multiplexes and overseas, but even in single screen theatres in the interiors of Gujarat, Punjab, Bengal, Bihar, CPCI, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. You can’t get more heartland than that,” says a relieved and thrilled Aamir. 

Mahesh Bhatt believes the ‘adult’ certification used as a forbidden carrot is pulling in the crowds. Aamir disagrees, “An ‘A’ certificate is never a guarantee for a hit. If anything, it reduced my audience by half. I lost out on the eight to 18 year segment, that’s my biggest fan base and their parents too. Abusive language doesn’t make a film successful, not does action or item numbers,” he argues. “There’s been talk about our colourful vocabulary, but this is not the first time people have heard such words. That’s why it’s an adult film.”

How much does Delhi Belly owe its success to Aamir’s marketing genius? He says, “I can get people to come for the first or second show through hype, but if they are returning for more, it’s because the film works for them.” Will he now be encouraged to take bigger risks? “All six films from Aamir Khan Productions in 10 years have been risks and we’ve earned on all of them. I don’t make a film because it’s a risk, but because I believe in it,” he argues. Should AB Corp and Viacom 18 have pushed forward the release of Bbuddah Hoga Terra Baap by a week or two? Says Aamir, “Two, three even four films coming together don’t affect the success of one or the other. We were never competition for Amitji, he’s too big a star!.” 

DB sequel on? Aamir smiles According to recent news reports, Aamir Khan’s next production, to be directed by wife Kiran Rao, could be a sequel to Delhi Belly. It’s likely to star the film’s comic trio – Imran Khan, Vir Das, Kunal Roy Kapoor – besides Aamir himself as Disco Fighter (his ‘item role’ from the first part). In Delhi Belly itself, if you recall, when Aamir’s character appears at the end, a freeze frame announces his next film titled ‘Disco Fighter’, slated for Christmas, 2011 release. When asked to comment, Aamir says, “I’m not saying this is true or false. I’m only smiling. Kiran’s working on a script, till it's locked, I can’t comment.”

B-town praises Delhi Belly, Bbuddah...

Big B v/s Aamir

Bollywood celebrities have taken to Twitter to pick their favourite from this week's releases -- Aamir Khan's home production Delhi Belly and Amitabh Bachchan's Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap. Directed by Abhinay Deo, Delhi Belly, an adult comedy, stars Imran Khan, Vir Das and Kunal Roy Kapur in pivotal roles.

"Saw Delhi Belly last night! Its a crazy good film! Laughed so much! Abhinay Deo is super talented! Everything abt d film was awesome!," actress Bipasha Basu said on micro-blogging site Twitter.

"My fav song frm the film is switty switty switty! Ram Sampath's music fr Delhi Belly is so crisp, bold, entertaining n in sync with the film!," the dusky actress added.

"Delhi Belly-- Two Thumbs Up! A film that cannot be missed. And yes, v can make films as good as Hollywood!," actress Minissha Lamba said.

"Wish Imran Khan all the best for D B. All the adults who have seen the film have loved it, so adults go n watch it, I am also gonna watch it," actor Salman Khan had said.

While, there are others who have enjoyed Big B's Bbuddah Hoga Tera Baap. Directed by Puri Jagannath, it stars Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Sonu Sood, Raveena Tandon and Sonal Chauhan.

Filmmaker Shirish Kunder, tweeted, "All the films were good in their own way. But really really impressed by Delhi Belly. And Mr Bachchan's one man show in BHTB."

Noted author and columnist, Shobhaa De, said, "Buddhas and Buddhis over 60, rejoice. Big B is the Sexiest Sam in town. Take that you 6-pack fellas and smoke it. 60+ rocks! Watch 'Buddha' NOW!."

"Entire hall went into frenzy cheering AB doing his spectacular Bbuddah act! Who says AB's appeal doesn't cut across generations?," filmmaker Pritish Nandy said.

Director, Sujoy Ghosh, tweets, "Bbuddah HTB. Go see. pure unabashed fun. I'm a @SrBachchan fan and today I'm that much more proud to be one".

Pregnant Pause

It isn’t often that an actress takes a gamble like announcing that she’s expecting a child when she’s riding high on her career. The news of Aishwarya Rai-Bachchan’s pregnancy, which was announced by her delighted father-in-law Amitabh Bachchan on June 21, came hot on the heels of the publicity being generated by her next big film project, Madhur Bhandarkar’s Heroine. The project, which had long been in the news for lack of a lead actress — a lot of names were thrown around including Kareena Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra — seemed to have finally got underway, when it was announced officially at Cannes in May. But that was only till the news of Rai-Bachchan’s pregnancy came in. 

In their official press statement, the film’s producers UTV Motion Pictures, declared that nothing is more important than the actress’s well-being. “In that context, we have all mutually agreed that the best step would be to avoid shooting further, rather than proceeding with an incredibly demanding schedule over the coming months. Even as we will truly miss this opportunity to work with Aishwarya, the entire unit wishes her the very best for the exciting time ahead, as she and Abhishek move into this special new phase in their lives.” Director Madhur Bhandarkar’s office repeated the same. However, the fate of the film, and Rai-Bachchan’s role in it, remains ambiguous.