Happy Birthday Hrithik Roshan: Actor’s impeccable films from 2000s

The film that kickstarted the Krrish franchise also served as Roshan’s first sci-fi film stint. The 2003 movie follows the story of Rohit, a developmentally disabled young man, who befriends an alien who is left behind on Earth by his species after Rohit accidentally contacts them via his deceased father’s computers. Roshan gives an exceptional performance as Rohit, sensitively portraying the role of the disabled young man whose blossoming into a force to be reckoned with a delight to watch.

This 2000 film helped Roshan plant his feet firmly in the industry as a popular leading man. The film tells the story of a young woman whose beloved is gruesomely murdered on the order of her father, unbeknownst to her. When she makes her way to another country in her grief, she is shocked when she meets up with a young man who bears a striking resemblance to her deceased partner. Roshan essays a double role in the film, as the murdered man and his doppleganger. He was lauded for his performance, his debut one at that, and the film also features some groovy dance performances from the star as well.

A regal love story that stood the test of time, this 2008 film gives viewers a glimpse into the marriage between Mughal Emperor Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar and Princess Jodhaa Bai. As with many royal marriages at the time, theirs too was a strategic decision to join the forces between their two kingdoms. But as time goes by, the couple start to gain a better understanding of each other and fall in love. Roshan essays the role of Emperor Akbar in the period drama, giving a stellar performance. His chemistry with co-star Aishwarya Rai Bachchan also stands out in the film.

Krrish takes up where Koi... Mil Gaya, continuing the saga of the man blessed with alien superpowers through the story of Krishna, who is the son of Rohit. After finding out the young Krishna has also been blessed with his late father’s superhuman abilities, he is whisked away to a remote village and raised by his grandmother. But things take a turn when he meets a young woman tourist and falls in love with her. Roshan essays the role of the titular superhero who takes up the identity of the masked crusader to fight crime. The character went on to become one of the most popular Indian superheroes and the film spawned two sequels. Another instalment in the franchise is currently in development.

This high-octane heist film was the second instalment in the Dhoom franchise, which featured Abhishek Bachchan and Uday Chopra reprising their roles from the first film. Dhoom 2 follows the story of an expert thief, known only as A, who makes a name for himself with the elaborate and high risk heists he pulls off. With the authorities hot on his tail, A encounters a young woman who suggests they team up and the two set their sights on yet another caper. Roshan stars as A or Aryan, a skilled robber who conducts his capers with flair. The star steals every scene he is in, with many calling his performance one of the highlights of the film.