Sajid Khan, the Bollywood director known for films like "Heyy Babyy" and the "Housefull" series, has sparked a debate about the evolving definition of a "hero" in Hindi cinema. In a recent interview, Khan stated that Bollywood has lost its true heroes, and now anyone can do a film. He contrasts this with South Indian cinema, where he believes the concept of a hero still holds significant cultural and moral weight.
Khan expressed his views in a conversation with Bharti Singh and Haarsh Limbachiyaa on their YouTube channel, Bharti TV. He lamented that the classic Bollywood hero, once embodied by legends like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Vinod Khanna, and Mithun Chakraborty, is a fading image. According to Khan, today's industry is filled with lead actors who may headline films but lack the larger-than-life appeal and moral compass that defined their predecessors. He believes the "value of a hero has diminished," making it easier for anyone to enter the film industry.
Khan emphasized that the essence of a true hero is still alive in South Indian cinema. He noted that heroes in the South are portrayed with grandeur and are held to a moral standard, where their actions must align with societal values. "In the South, the word 'hero' still means something," he said. He also pointed out that while there is no term like "super-lead," the word "superhero" still signifies the kind of stature heroes once held in cinema. According to Khan, South Indian heroes can't take a wrong step on screen because they represent society's hopes, not just its fantasies.
Khan also touched upon the changing dynamics of physical fitness in Bollywood. He observed that actors in earlier generations didn't rely on muscular physiques to leave an impact. Stars like Vinod Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan conveyed intensity through their expressions, despite not having well-defined bodies. While he credited Salman Khan for popularizing the gym-toned look in Bollywood, especially after "Maine Pyaar Kiya," he emphasized that a hero is made from his eyes, not just his biceps. He cited Ranbir Kapoor's role in "Animal" as an example, suggesting that Kapoor's performance would have been equally powerful without the muscle gain, thanks to the emotional depth in his eyes. He also referenced Sunny Deol's role in "Gadar 2", praising Deol's natural, strong presence.
Khan's remarks have resonated with many who feel that Bollywood has shifted its focus from character and moral strength to physical appearance and marketability. His comparison to South Indian cinema highlights a perceived difference in how heroes are portrayed and the values they represent. While some may see Khan's views as a nostalgic look back at a bygone era, others may view it as a call for Bollywood to redefine its heroes and prioritize substance over superficiality.
It is worth noting that Khan's career has been controversial. In 2018, he faced #MeToo allegations, which led to his removal from "Housefull 4" and a period of professional isolation. Khan has spoken about the mental and financial struggles he faced during this time. Despite receiving a clearance from the Indian Film and Television Directors Association (IFTDA), he has acknowledged the challenges of rebuilding his career.
