Bollywood's Biggest Stars: Then and Now
Bollywood's Biggest Stars: Then and Now
Bollywood, the world’s largest film industry, has always been synonymous with its stars. Over the decades, these stars have evolved from being screen idols to global icons, shaping both Indian cinema and popular culture in profound ways. The journey of Bollywood’s biggest stars, from their humble beginnings to their rise to superstardom, is not just a reflection of personal growth but also a mirror to the changing landscape of the film industry. Let’s take a look at some of the most iconic figures in Bollywood history and how they have shaped, and been shaped by, the evolution of the industry.
The Golden Age: The 1950s to 1970s
In the early days of Bollywood, actors were often seen as larger-than-life figures who embodied the ideals of Indian society. Stars like Raj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, and Nargis captured the hearts of audiences with their powerful performances and on-screen personas that resonated with the social realities of the time. Raj Kapoor, for instance, became a cultural icon with films like Awaara (1951) and Shree 420 (1955), which blended romance with social commentary. Similarly, Dilip Kumar’s intense roles in films like Devdas (1955) and Mughal-e-Azam (1960) elevated him to the status of "Tragedy King."
The 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of Bollywood's first true action heroes, with stars like Amitabh Bachchan redefining the concept of masculinity in Indian cinema. His "angry young man" persona in films such as Zanjeer (1973) and Deewaar (1975) broke away from the melodramatic heroes of the past. Amitabh's larger-than-life presence on screen, combined with his deep voice and powerful dialogues, made him a towering figure in Bollywood for generations.
The 1980s and 1990s: The Era of Romance and Glamour
The 1980s and 1990s brought a wave of new talent to the screen. Actors like Mithun Chakraborty, Sunny Deol, and Anil Kapoor dominated the action and family drama genres, while the late 1980s also saw the emergence of young romantic heroes like Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and Salman Khan. These actors became the face of a new Bollywood cinema that embraced both the changing dynamics of Indian society and the influence of Western pop culture.
Shah Rukh Khan, in particular, went on to become Bollywood’s biggest global icon. Known as the "King of Romance," his roles in films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001) established him as the face of romance for an entire generation. His charismatic performances and widespread appeal helped Bollywood cross over to global markets, especially in the Indian diaspora communities.
Meanwhile, Aamir Khan’s ability to adapt to diverse roles in films like Lagaan (2001), Dil Chahta Hai (2001), and Taare Zameen Par (2007) earned him the reputation of an actor who could balance commercial success with critical acclaim. Salman Khan, with his distinct style and mass appeal, dominated the 2000s and remains one of the highest-grossing stars of contemporary Bollywood, particularly known for his roles in Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) and Sultan (2016).