Why 'Baazigar' Is This Week's Pick




  • Shah Rukh Khan, who is often hailed as the 'King of Romance', delivered his first anti-hero performance facing moral ambiguity with Abbas Mustan's 'Baazigar', which established his image as an actor suitable enough to fit into any genre. As the superstar's latest release 'Jawan', where he plays the roles of both a hero and a villain (with twists), here's revisiting his first film as an anti-hero, which became a turning point of his career.



New Delhi: Bollywood's iconic film 'Baazigar,' released in 1993, continues to exert a timeless and enduring relevance that transcends the ebbs and flows of cinematic trends. At its core, this film stands as a pivotal moment in the illustrious career of Shah Rukh Khan, who boldly ventured into uncharted territory by stepping into the shoes of an anti-hero for the very first time. This marked a significant departure from the image that would later make him the 'King of Romance' in Bollywood.


In 'Baazigar,' Shah Rukh Khan portrayed the enigmatic character of Ajay Sharma, a man driven by an insatiable thirst for vengeance to avenge his father's death and alleviate his mother's suffering. This role served as a veritable showcase of Khan's incredible acting range, firmly establishing him as an actor capable of leaving an indelible mark on any character he embraced. It was a pivotal moment that showcased his acting prowess, forever changing the trajectory of his career.


However, 'Baazigar' was not merely a platform for Khan's transformation but also the inception of one of Bollywood's most beloved on-screen pairings. Opposite Khan was Kajol, and their palpable chemistry in the film ignited a cinematic romance that would go on to captivate the hearts of millions. The duo's magnetic connection laid the foundation for future blockbusters like 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaenge' and 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,' forging a legendary partnership in the annals of Indian cinema.




The film also marked the silver screen debut of Shilpa Shetty, who portrayed the character of Seema Chopra. While her role in 'Baazigar' was relatively small, it marked the beginning of a successful career in the film industry for Shetty, making it a significant milestone in her journey.




An integral part of 'Baazigar's' enduring appeal lies in its enchanting music, composed by the maestro Anu Malik. The film's soundtrack, featuring gems like 'Baazigar O Baazigar' and 'Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhen,' continues to enrapture the senses and strike a chord with audiences of all ages. The timeless melodies have transcended generations and firmly established themselves as classic tunes in the Bollywood music canon.




Moreover, 'Baazigar' boasts a gripping narrative that keeps viewers enthralled to this day. The story's unexpected twists and turns, coupled with Shah Rukh Khan's charismatic portrayal of a morally ambiguous character, make it a cinematic experience that has not lost its edge even after all these years.


Beyond its immediate impact, 'Baazigar' holds historical significance in the evolution of Bollywood cinema. It ushered in a wave of anti-hero films that challenged the traditional hero-centric narratives, opening doors for actors and filmmakers to explore complex characters and unconventional themes. It was a game-changer in its time, and its influence continues to reverberate in modern Indian cinema.




The film was originally titled 'Khiladi.' However, the title was changed to avoid confusion with another film sharing the same name. Interestingly, Shah Rukh Khan wasn't the first choice for the role of Ajay Sharma. The character was initially offered to Salman Khan, who turned it down, followed by consideration of Aamir Khan before it finally landed in Shah Rukh Khan's lap. The film's iconic dialogue, 'Kabhi kabhi jeetne ke liye kuch haarna bhi padta hai ... aur haar kar jeetne waale ko baazigar kehte hai,' became a cultural catchphrase and a symbol of the film's profound impact.


Shah Rukh Khan's journey from the anti-hero in 'Baazigar' to the quintessential romantic hero in 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jaenge' is a compelling transformation that showcases his unparalleled versatility as an actor. 'Baazigar' challenged the status quo and established him as an actor capable of excelling in diverse roles, while 'DDLJ' solidified his status as the 'King of Romance' with its enduring love story and his charming on-screen persona. This transition is a testament to Shah Rukh Khan's ability to adapt and excel in different genres, cementing his status as one of Bollywood's most accomplished actors.




As we fast forward to the present, Shah Rukh Khan's latest release, 'Jawan,' marks a return to the anti-hero archetype, albeit in a different context. In 'Jawan,' he portrays a character that blurs the lines between hero and villain, showcasing his continued willingness to push boundaries and tackle complex roles. This contrast with his iconic romantic hero image adds another layer to his illustrious career and serves as a reminder of his ability to defy conventions and explore new facets of his acting prowess.


In a cinematic landscape where trends and tastes evolve rapidly, 'Baazigar' continues to stand as a timeless gem, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling and unforgettable performances in Bollywood. As audiences revisit this classic, they can appreciate how it laid the foundation for Shah Rukh Khan's extraordinary career, captivating hearts and minds with its gripping narrative, legendary pairing, soul-stirring music, and Shah Rukh Khan's transformative portrayal of an anti-hero.