Hrithik Roshan is a renowned Indian actor known for his work in Hindi-language films. With a career spanning over two decades, he has established himself as one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors.
Since his debut in 2000 with Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, a highly successful romantic drama directed by his father, Hrithik has showcased his exceptional talent across various genres, from romance to action. This comprehensive list will explore his most impactful performances, highlighting films that have defined his journey as an actor and superstar.
Key Takeaways
- Hrithik Roshan’s filmography includes a mix of romantic hits and action-packed blockbusters.
- His performances have been critically acclaimed and successful at the box office.
- The list will cover his evolution as an actor over two decades.
- Hrithik’s work with various directors has contributed to his versatility.
- This guide is a perfect starting point for fans and newcomers to appreciate his contribution to Indian cinema.
The Evolution of Hrithik Roshan in Bollywood
From behind the scenes to the forefront of Indian cinema, Hrithik Roshan’s career is a story of versatility and dedication. His journey began as an assistant director to his father, Rakesh Roshan, providing him with valuable insights into filmmaking.
From Assistant Director to Superstar
Hrithik Roshan’s initial foray into Bollywood was as an assistant director on several films, including “Khudgarz” (1987) and “Karan Arjun” (1995). His debut as an actor in “Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai” (2000) catapulted him to instant stardom, earning him both Best Debut and Best Actor Filmfare Awards. However, his subsequent time in the industry was marked by a series of critical and commercial failures, which led critics to question the longevity of his career.
Versatility Across Genres
The turning point in Hrithik Roshan’s career came with “Koi… Mil Gaya” (2003), where he portrayed a mentally challenged young man, showcasing his acting range. Over time, Hrithik has successfully transitioned across multiple genres, from romantic dramas to action thrillers and historical epics, establishing himself as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. His ability to adapt to different roles has been a key factor in his enduring success in Bollywood.
Hrithik Roshan’s evolution from a conventional romantic hero to a multifaceted performer capable of carrying complex characters has been one of the most remarkable transformations in contemporary Bollywood, making him a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
War (2019): Action-Packed Espionage Thriller
Siddharth Anand’s ‘War’ (2019) is an adrenaline-fueled espionage thriller starring Hrithik Roshan as Kabir, a seasoned intelligence agent who goes rogue.
Plot and Character Analysis
The film revolves around the complex relationship between Kabir (Hrithik Roshan) and his protégé Khalid (Tiger Shroff), creating a cat-and-mouse game that drives the narrative forward. The chemistry between Hrithik and Tiger Shroff adds an emotional depth to the story, making their on-screen mentorship believable and engaging.
The plot is intricate, with Hrithik Roshan showcasing his acting prowess as Kabir, demonstrating both tactical brilliance and emotional complexity. Director Siddharth Anand crafted high-octane action sequences that perfectly complement Hrithik’s physicality, resulting in some of the most spectacular stunt work seen in Indian cinema.
Box Office Success and Critical Reception
‘War’ was a massive commercial success, collecting Rs317.91 crore at the box office and cementing Hrithik Roshan‘s status as a bankable action star. Critics praised his performance for bringing gravitas to the role, elevating what could have been a standard action film into something with genuine emotional stakes.
The action-packed narrative and the chemistry between the leads contributed to its success, making ‘War’ a cornerstone of YRF’s spy universe. The box office success of ‘War’ established it as one of Hrithik Roshan‘s biggest hits, further solidifying his position in the industry.
Fighter (2024): Soaring High in the Skies
With Fighter, Hrithik Roshan and director Siddharth Anand reunite to bring an unprecedented aerial action film to Indian cinema. This gripping movie takes us into the heart of the Indian Air Force, where Hrithik Roshan leads a team of fighter pilots, including Deepika Padukone and Anil Kapoor, as they navigate through intense airstrikes and military operations.
India’s First Aerial Action Film
Fighter marks a significant milestone in Indian cinema as the country’s first major aerial action film. Hrithik Roshan portrays Squadron Leader Shamsher “Patty” Pathania with conviction and intensity. The film is set against the backdrop of real-life events like the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, combining heart-pounding action with human emotions as Patty deals with personal loss while leading a mission against enemy forces.
Performance and Visual Spectacle
The aerial combat sequences in Fighter represent a technical achievement in Indian filmmaking, with breathtaking visuals that showcase Hrithik’s ability to command attention even in effects-heavy scenes. The chemistry between Hrithik and Deepika Padukone adds emotional depth to the high-octane action, creating a balanced viewing experience that appeals to diverse audience preferences. With a worldwide box office collection of Rs 337.2 crore, Fighter demonstrates Hrithik’s continued commercial appeal and his ability to draw audiences to theaters for large-scale spectacles.
The film reunites Hrithik with director Siddharth Anand after their successful collaborations on “Bang Bang” and “War,” continuing their tradition of creating visually spectacular action sequences. Critics particularly praised Hrithik’s portrayal of a disciplined yet emotionally complex fighter pilot, noting how he brings authenticity to the role through his physical presence and emotional range.
Super 30 (2019): The Inspiring Biopic
Hrithik Roshan’s portrayal of mathematician Anand Kumar in Super30 is a testament to his versatility as an actor. The film, directed by Vikas Bahl, is based on the true story of Anand Kumar, who started the Super30 program in Patna in 2002 to coach underprivileged students for the IIT entrance test.
Portraying Mathematician Anand Kumar
Hrithik’s performance in Super30 showcases his ability to transform into his characters. He adopts a Bihari accent and darkened skin tone to embody the passionate educator, Anand Kumar. His dedication to the role is evident in his nuanced portrayal, bringing depth and emotion to the character.
Critical Acclaim and Social Impact
The film received critical acclaim for its inspiring narrative and Hrithik’s performance. With a box office collection of Rs 146.94 crore, Super30 proved that Hrithik could carry content-driven cinema. The film also highlighted the issue of educational inequality in India, celebrating the transformative power of dedicated teaching.
The success of Super30 can be attributed to Hrithik’s commitment to portraying Hrithik Roshan as Anand Kumar. The film’s impact extends beyond entertainment, inspiring audiences with the real-life story of Anand Kumar and his Super30 program.
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011): A Journey of Self-Discovery
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is a cinematic journey where Hrithik Roshan, alongside Farhan Akhtar and Abhay Deol, embarks on a road trip of self-discovery across Spain. The film, directed by Zoya Akhtar, is a poignant exploration of friendship, love, and living in the moment.
Hrithik Roshan plays Arjun, a career-driven investment banker who, along with his friends, takes a bachelor trip that transforms into a journey of self-discovery. Initially, Arjun struggles to let go of his professional obsession, but as the trip progresses, he opens up to new experiences and love, aided by a carefree diving instructor, Laila (Katrina Kaif).
Arjun’s Character Arc and Transformation
Hrithik Roshan’s portrayal of Arjun is nuanced and understated, capturing the character’s gradual transformation from a tightly-wound individual to someone who embraces life’s spontaneity. His chemistry with Farhan Akhtar and Abhay Deol adds warmth to the film’s narrative, making their friendship dynamic believable and heartfelt.
Arjun’s romance with Laila represents his opening up to vulnerability and connection, with Hrithik conveying this emotional awakening through subtle shifts in body language and expression.
Friendship, Adventure, and Life Lessons
The film’s narrative is woven around the themes of friendship, adventure, and the importance of living in the moment. The road trip across Spain becomes a metaphor for the characters’ journey into their own selves, discovering new strengths and vulnerabilities.
The film’s philosophy of “seize the day” resonates through Hrithik’s performance, particularly in scenes where Arjun confronts his fears and past traumas to embrace a more balanced approach to life.
Director Zoya Akhtar extracts a refreshingly restrained performance from Hrithik, allowing him to showcase his acting range beyond the high-energy roles that initially made him famous. The film’s lasting cultural impact and continued popularity demonstrate how Hrithik’s portrayal of personal growth and emotional intelligence resonated with audiences seeking meaningful storytelling.
Jodhaa Akbar (2008): Historical Romance Epic
In ‘Jodhaa Akbar,’ Hrithik Roshan delivers a nuanced performance as Emperor Akbar, capturing the essence of the Mughal ruler’s strength and wisdom. Directed by Ashutosh Gowariker, this historical epic explores the political marriage between Akbar and Rajput princess Jodhaa, played by Aishwarya Rai, which gradually evolves into a genuine love story.
Portraying Emperor Akbar
Hrithik Roshan’s portrayal of Emperor Akbar is marked by his physical transformation and mastery of sword fighting techniques, horseback riding, and the royal gait required to authentically portray the 16th-century emperor. His performance is characterized by subtle expressions that convey complex emotions, particularly in scenes where Akbar navigates political intrigue while developing feelings for his initially reluctant bride, Jodhaa.
Period Drama Excellence and Visual Grandeur
The film is a visual spectacle, with grand battle sequences that showcase Hrithik’s action capabilities within a historical context. The intimate court scenes, on the other hand, highlight his dramatic range. The chemistry between Hrithik and Aishwarya Rai is palpable, creating a believable romance across cultural and religious divides. The film’s exploration of religious tolerance and cultural integration through Akbar’s character adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a historical romance. Critics praised the film, and Hrithik earned his fourth Filmfare Award for Best Actor for his performance.
The success of ‘Jodhaa Akbar’ can be attributed to the lavish sets, costumes, and AR Rahman’s soulful music, which all come together to create a cinematic masterpiece. Hrithik Roshan’s performance is a significant factor in the film’s critical acclaim, demonstrating his ability to excel in period dramas that require both physical presence and emotional depth.
Top 10 Movies of Hrithik Roshan Till 2025: The Complete List
With a career spanning over two decades, Hrithik Roshan has established himself as a versatile actor in Bollywood. His filmography includes a wide range of genres, from action-packed blockbusters to heartfelt dramas and historical epics.
The list of his top 10 movies till 2025 showcases his enduring appeal and talent. Here, we will explore his box office performance and critical recognition.
Box Office Performance
Hrithik Roshan’s films have consistently performed well at the box office. Some of his highest-grossing films include:
- War (2019): With a domestic gross of approximately Rs 318 crore, it stands as one of his highest-grossing films.
- Fighter (2024): This film has further solidified his commercial viability with a worldwide collection of Rs 337.2 crore.
- Krrish 3 (2013): As part of the “Krrish” franchise, it pushed the boundaries of visual effects in Bollywood.
| Movie Title | Release Year | Box Office Collection |
|---|---|---|
| War | 2019 | Rs 318 crore |
| Fighter | 2024 | Rs 337.2 crore |
| Krrish 3 | 2013 | Rs 244.8 crore |
Critical Recognition and Awards
Hrithik Roshan has received critical acclaim for many of his films. Some notable performances include:
- Super 30 (2019): His portrayal of mathematician Anand Kumar earned him critical acclaim.
- Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011): This film highlighted his ability to shine in ensemble casts.
- Jodhaa Akbar (2008): His performance as Emperor Akbar was widely praised.
Throughout his career, Hrithik Roshan has been recognized with multiple Filmfare Awards for his performances in films like “Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai,” “Koi… Mil Gaya,” “Dhoom 2,” and “Jodhaa Akbar.” His consistent box office performance and critical recognition underscore his status as a leading actor in Bollywood.
Krrish Franchise: India’s Beloved Superhero
As India’s first successful superhero series, the Krrish franchise has captivated audiences with its blend of action and emotional depth. Starring Hrithik Roshan in a dual role as father (Rohit Mehra) and son (Krishna/Krrish), the franchise has set a new benchmark for superhero films in the country.
Evolution of the Franchise
The Krrish franchise began with the science fiction film “Koi… Mil Gaya” (2003), which laid the groundwork for the superhero saga that followed. The subsequent films, “Krrish” (2006) and “Krrish3” (2013), expanded the mythology and visual scope of the franchise, with Hrithik Roshan delivering a remarkable performance as both the intellectually challenged Rohit and the superhero Krrish.
Directed by his father, Rakesh Roshan, the franchise has become a family legacy project, combining commercial entertainment with groundbreaking visual effects. The success of “Krrish3,” which collected approximately Rs244.92 crore at the box office, demonstrated the franchise’s commercial power and the audience’s embrace of the homegrown superhero concept.
Impact on Indian Cinema
The Krrish franchise has had a significant impact on Indian cinema, inspiring a generation of filmmakers to explore science fiction and superhero genres with greater confidence. Hrithik Roshan’s physical commitment to the role, performing many of his own stunts and maintaining a superhero physique, set new standards for action performances in Bollywood.
Years later, the Krrish character remains culturally significant, with merchandise, animated adaptations, and continued discussions about future installments maintaining the franchise’s relevance in popular culture. The franchise’s influence can be seen in many subsequent Indian superhero films, cementing its legacy as a pioneering force in the genre.
Dhoom 2 (2006): Redefining Style and Action
Dhoom2, released in 2006, marked a significant milestone in Hrithik Roshan’s career with his portrayal of the charismatic antagonist, Aryan ‘Mr. A’. The film, directed by Sanjay Gadhvi, was a sequel to the original Dhoom and continued the trend of high-octane action and thrilling sequences.
The Charismatic Antagonist
Hrithik Roshan’s portrayal of Aryan ‘Mr. A’ in Dhoom2 revolutionized the concept of the stylish antagonist in Bollywood. His character, with his sophisticated demeanor and acrobatic skills, captivated audiences more than the traditional heroes. Hrithik underwent extensive physical training to achieve the lean, athletic physique required for his role as an international thief who performs impossible heists with precision and technological ingenuity.
The film’s opening sequence, featuring Hrithik disguised as Queen Elizabeth II before executing a daring desert heist, immediately established his character’s audacity and transformative abilities. The character’s multiple disguises throughout the film allowed Hrithik to display his versatility, adopting different personas, voices, and physical mannerisms with convincing ease.
Trendsetting Style and Choreography
Hrithik’s dance performance in “Dhoom Again” became instantly iconic, showcasing his unparalleled movement skills and setting trends in choreography that influenced Bollywood dance sequences for years to come. The chemistry between Hrithik and Aishwarya Rai created one of Bollywood’s most stylish on-screen couples, with their beach romance and dance sequences becoming defining moments in the film.
The film’s commercial success, with a box office collection of Rs 81.01 crore, established the “Dhoom” franchise as a major Bollywood property and cemented Hrithik’s reputation as an actor who could elevate any material through his commitment and screen presence. Hrithik’s performance earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Actor, unusual recognition for an antagonist role, demonstrating how thoroughly he had subverted traditional hero-villain dynamics.
Upcoming Projects: What to Expect by 2025
As we look ahead to 2025, Hrithik Roshan’s filmography is set to expand with several highly anticipated projects. The actor has been a staple in Bollywood for decades, and his upcoming releases are expected to continue his legacy of delivering high-quality entertainment.
War 2: The Highly Anticipated Sequel
One of the most eagerly awaited projects is “War 2,” the sequel to Hrithik’s 2019 blockbuster. Currently in production, “War 2” will see Hrithik reprise his role as Major Kabir Dhaliwal, continuing the character’s journey within YRF’s expanding Spy Universe. The sequel promises to build on the action spectacle of the original, with reports suggesting new international locations and even more ambitious stunt sequences.
The success of “War 2” is expected to be significant, given the popularity of the first film and the growing interest in spy thrillers. Hrithik’s portrayal of Major Kabir Dhaliwal has been well-received, and fans are eager to see how the character evolves in the sequel.
Other Announced Projects
Beyond “War 2,” industry insiders suggest that Hrithik may finally begin work on “Krrish 4,” a project that has been in development for several years. Additionally, there are rumors of Hrithik considering adaptations of acclaimed foreign action and drama films, following his previous success with remakes like “Bang Bang,” an adaptation of the 2010 American film “Knight and Day.”
Hrithik’s collaboration with director Siddharth Anand has proven successful, and another partnership is likely before 2025. Industry sources also indicate that Hrithik is increasingly interested in production, suggesting he may take a more active role behind the camera for some of his upcoming projects.
The actor’s careful approach to selecting scripts means that while his output may be limited, each new film represents a carefully considered career move. Fans can expect Hrithik to continue balancing commercial entertainers with more content-driven films, maintaining the versatility that has defined his career thus far.
Conclusion
From his early days as an assistant director to his father to becoming one of Bollywood’s most bankable stars, Hrithik Roshan’s journey is truly inspiring. His filmography showcases remarkable range, from playing a superhero in the “Krrish” franchise to portraying real-life mathematician Anand Kumar in “Super30.”
The consistent box office performance of his films across more than two decades speaks to his enduring appeal with audiences of all demographics. Directors consistently praise Hrithik’s dedication to his craft, noting his meticulous preparation for roles.
Hrithik Roshan’s contribution to elevating action choreography and dance standards in Indian cinema cannot be overstated. His ability to shine in ensemble casts, as seen in family dramas like “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham,” and carry emotionally complex solo leads, as in “Kaabil,” demonstrates his versatility.
- Hrithik has balanced commercial entertainers with more artistic ventures throughout his career.
- He continues to evolve as an artist, carefully selecting projects that challenge him.
- His performances bring authenticity and intensity to every role, ensuring his legacy as one of Bollywood’s greatest stars.
As Hrithik Roshan continues to captivate audiences with his performances, his films till 2025 promise to further cement his legacy as one of the most versatile and committed actors of his generation. Whether playing a thief, a superhero, a mathematician, or a fighter pilot, Hrithik Roshan’s authenticity and intensity shine through, making him a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
