Table of Contents
1. Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015):
Ayushmann Khurrana’s Bollywood journey started with a bang in 2012 with “Vicky Donor,” a movie that set high expectations for his career. However, his following films like “Nautanki Saala,” “Bewakoofiyaan,” and “Hawaizaada” didn’t quite meet those expectations. It wasn’t until he starred in “Dum Laga Ke Haisha,” a charming romantic comedy by Yash Raj Films set in 1990s Haridwar, that he regained his footing. This sleeper hit, made on a modest budget, earned over ₹30 crore, marking his successful comeback.
2. R…Rajkumar (2013):
Shahid Kapoor, once hailed as the next big superstar since his debut in 2003, hasn’t had an easy ride in Bollywood. While he delivered some memorable performances in movies like “Jab We Met” and “Kaminey,” many of his later films, such as “Mausam,” “Teri Meri Kahaani,” and “Phata Poster Nikla Hero,” didn’t do well at the box office. However, in 2013, his luck turned with the comedy film “R…Rajkumar,” directed by Prabhudheva, which earned nearly ₹70 crore. He followed this success with Vishal Bhardwaj’s highly acclaimed “Haider,” which also crossed ₹50 crore in earnings. Despite facing setbacks like “Shandaar,” Shahid Kapoor is still regarded as one of the industry’s top performers.
3. Cocktail (2012):
Before Deepika Padukone became a superstar and started delivering hit after hit, she made some movie choices that didn’t quite hit the mark. Films like “Lafangey Parindey,” “Break Ke Baad,” “Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey,” and “Desi Boyz” didn’t bring her much success. However, her winning streak began with her bold and vibrant role in Homi Adajania’s “Cocktail,” earning ₹71 crores at the box office. This success continued with movies like “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani,” “Chennai Express,” “Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela,” “Happy New Year,” and “Piku.”
4. I Hate Luv Storys (2010):
Imran Khan’s Bollywood journey started strong with his debut in “Jaane Tu…Ya Jaane Na” in 2008, but then he faced setbacks with movies like “Kidnap” and “Luck.” However, his luck changed with the romantic comedy “I Hate Luv Storys” directed by newcomer Punit Malhotra. This film earned over ₹43 crore at the box office and restored Khan’s charming boy-next-door image. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to sustain this success in his recent films, leaving audiences disappointed.
5. Wanted (2009):
Believe it or not, there was a time when Salman Khan’s movies weren’t raking in big bucks at the box office. After a string of average films like “Yuvvraaj,” “Heroes,” “Hello,” and “God Tussi Great Ho,” things changed with the action-thriller “Wanted.” Directed by Prabhudheva, this film made ₹61 crore and brought Khan back as the fearless hero audiences loved. Since then, with blockbusters like “Dabangg,” “Bodyguard,” and “Ek Tha Tiger,” Salman Khan has been ruling the industry without looking back.
6. Koi…Mil Gaya (2003):
After the massive success of his debut in “Kaho Na Pyaar Hai” (2000), Hrithik Roshan’s career hit a rough patch with movies like “Aap Mujhe Achche Lagne Lage,” “Mujhse Dosti Karoge,” “Na Tum Jaano Na Hum,” and “Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon.” However, things turned around with his father Rakesh Roshan’s sci-fi film “Koi… Mil Gaya.” This movie earned ₹19 crore at the box office and earned Roshan numerous awards. It marked a comeback for the actor and reinstated faith in his talent.
7. Munnabhai MBBS (2003):
After his well-received performance in the action drama “Vaastav” (1999), Sanjay Dutt faced a series of lackluster films like “Kurukshetra,” “Pitaah,” “Hum Kisi Se Kum Nahin,” and “Hathyar.” However, his career took a positive turn with Rajkumar Hirani’s “Munnabhai MBBS,” a heartwarming comedy-drama. This film earned over ₹7 crores in India and has since become a successful franchise. It’s one of Dutt’s most beloved roles, marking a significant pause in his career slump.
8. Saathiya (2002):
Rani Mukerji’s career hit a slump after the huge success of “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” (1998). For the next four years, she appeared in several films that didn’t make much of an impact, such as “Hello Brother,” “Badal,” “Kahin Pyaar Na Ho Jaaye,” and “Mujhse Dosti Karoge.” However, her career got a much-needed boost with Shaad Ali’s romantic drama “Saathiya.” This film, a remake of Mani Ratnam’s Tamil movie “Alaipayuthey,” earned ₹4 crore at the box office and brought Rani back into the limelight. For the next three years, she delivered hits like “Hum Tum,” “Black,” and “Bunty Aur Babli,” establishing herself once again as a top actress.
9. Mohabbatein (2000):
After a short break in the mid-90s, Amitabh Bachchan returned to the silver screen. However, he found himself playing roles that didn’t quite match his real-life age in movies like “Kohram,” “Hindustan Ki Kasam,” and “Sooryavansham.” But everything changed with Aditya Chopra’s “Mohabbatein.” This film earned ₹25 crore at the box office and completely revitalized Bachchan’s career. It established him as the only actor of his age with such immense influence and respect in the industry.
10. Jaanwar (1999):
Akshay Kumar was mainly known as an action hero rather than a skilled actor for a while. Movies like “Keemat,” “Barood,” “International Khiladi,” and “Zulmi” received harsh criticism from audiences and critics alike. However, things changed with Suneel Darshan’s “Jaanwar.” This film, which tells a touching father-son story, earned nearly ₹10 crore at the box office and showcased Kumar’s ability to portray sensitive roles.
All information from popular movie websites, such as Bollywood Hungama and IBOS Network, has been gathered.
Welcome to Mint! Your top destination for news in India. Explore our content further for more insights on business coverage and market trends.
Conclusion
These hits not only revitalized these actors’ careers but also showcased their talent, resilience, and ability to bounce back from setbacks. From iconic roles that defined generations to transformative performances that earned critical acclaim, each of these hits played a significant role in shaping the careers of these actors and securing their lasting impact on the world of cinema. Their dedication and skill turned career challenges into triumphs, inspiring audiences and fellow artists alike.
FAQs
Q1: What qualifies as a “hit” in this context?
Ans: A “hit” refers to a successful film or performance that significantly impacted an actor’s career, either by revitalizing their standing in the industry, garnering critical acclaim, or redefining their public image.
Q2: How did these actors bounce back?
Ans: These actors bounced back by delivering standout performances in roles that captured the public’s attention, earned critical acclaim, and often received awards recognition. These hits served as pivotal moments in their careers, helping them overcome previous setbacks or challenges.
Q3: Were these actors struggling before these hits?
Ans: Many of these actors experienced career downturns, whether due to typecasting, personal issues, or a string of box office disappointments. These hits marked significant turning points that propelled them back into the spotlight.
Q4: Did these hits lead to long-term success for these actors?
Ans: In most cases, these hits paved the way for sustained success in the actors’ careers. Following these breakthrough performances, many secured leading roles in high-profile projects, further solidifying their status in Hollywood.
Q5: How did these hits impact the actors’ public image?
Ans: These hits often transformed the public perception of the actors, showcasing their versatility, talent, and ability to tackle diverse roles. They helped shed previous stereotypes or misconceptions and cemented their reputations as versatile performers.
Q6: Can these hits be considered career-defining moments for these actors?
Ans: Absolutely. These hits are often regarded as career-defining moments because they revitalized the actors’ careers and left a lasting impact on the industry and audience perceptions of their talent.
Q7: Did these actors face any challenges after their comeback hits?
Ans: While these comeback hits rejuvenated their careers, actors still faced challenges navigating Hollywood’s ever-changing landscape. However, the success and recognition from these hits gave them a solid foundation to overcome future obstacles.
Q8: How do these comeback hits compare to the actors’ earlier successes?
Ans: While some actors experienced earlier successes in their careers, these comeback hits often represented a renaissance or resurgence, showcasing their growth as performers and ability to evolve with the industry. These hits may have surpassed their earlier achievements regarding critical acclaim or cultural impact.
Q9: Did these hits lead to increased opportunities for these actors?
Ans: Yes, these hits opened doors to new opportunities for the actors, including leading roles in high-profile projects, collaborations with esteemed directors, and expanded creative freedom to explore different genres and characters.
Q10: Did these comeback hits result in financial success for the actors?
Ans: In many cases, yes. Successful films often lead to increased earning potential for actors through higher salaries for subsequent roles, opportunities for endorsement deals, or a share of profits from box office returns and merchandise sales.
