Director

Mahesh Bhatt

Mahesh Bhatt is a Bollywood legend who basically redefined what Hindi cinema could be in the 80s and 90s. The guy isn't afraid to push boundaries—his films tackle unconventional narratives and bold themes that were pretty daring for their time. Starting with the critically acclaimed *Saaransh* (1984), which became India's official Oscar entry that year, he proved he could make intelligent, meaningful cinema. But he's equally at home making commercial blockbusters like *Aashiqui* (1990) and *Sadak* (1991), the latter becoming Vishesh Films' biggest hit. With five National Film Awards and four Filmfare Awards under his belt, plus a hand print on the Bollywood Walk of Fame since 2013, his track record speaks volumes. Whether it's the introspective *Daddy* (1989) or the romantic charm of *Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin* (1991) with Aamir Khan and Pooja Bhatt, Bhatt has done it all. What makes Mahesh Bhatt special is his refusal to fit into one box—he's equally comfortable with art-house cinema and mass entertainers, and that's kind of his superpower. His films from the 90s like *Sir* (1993), *Gumraah* (1993), and *Criminal* (1994) showcase a filmmaker constantly experimenting with storytelling and character depth. Even as Bollywood has evolved dramatically since then, his influence lingers in films that dare to be different. While his recent work has been more sporadic, his legacy as a producer through Vishesh Films (co-founded with brother Mukesh Bhatt in 1987) continues to shape Hindi cinema, backing projects that might not fit