Sajid Khan, a filmmaker often embroiled in controversy, has made a striking statement about the state of Bollywood. In a recent conversation with comedian Bharti Singh on her YouTube channel, Khan expressed his views on the current crop of actors in the industry.
Khan believes that Bollywood no longer has “heroes” in the classical sense. Instead, he argues that today’s actors are merely “lead actors.” According to him, the term “hero” was reserved for actors who embodied a certain charisma and presence on screen, such as Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Jeetendra, and Mithun Chakraborty. These actors were the true stars of their time, drawing massive audiences to theaters.
Khan’s Take on the Evolution of Bollywood Heroes
Khan attributes the shift away from the traditional “hero” archetype to changes in the industry. He notes that actors like Salman Khan introduced a new era of physique-conscious acting, with the “six-pack abs” becoming a staple of Bollywood leads. While Khan acknowledges that Khan’s physical transformation in “Maine Pyar Kiya” was a game-changer, he argues that this new emphasis on physical appearance has become ubiquitous.
In Khan’s opinion, the old guard of Bollywood heroes had a certain intensity and charisma that is missing from today’s leads. He recalls that actors like Vinod Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan didn’t need to have chiseled physiques to be considered heroes; their presence on screen was enough to captivate audiences. Khan laments that the industry has lost some of its old charm, with the focus now on physical appearance rather than acting talent.
The Changing Landscape of Bollywood
Khan’s comments have sparked a debate about the current state of Bollywood and the type of actors it produces. While some may argue that the industry has evolved to accommodate new talent and styles, others may see Khan’s views as a nostalgic longing for a bygone era. Regardless, Khan’s statement highlights the ongoing conversation about the direction of Bollywood and the qualities that define a true “hero” on screen.