Hrithik Roshan: The Greek God of Bollywood
Hrithik Roshan was born on January 10, 1974, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, into a prominent Bollywood family. His father, Rakesh Roshan, is a veteran actor-turned-director, while his mother, Pinky Roshan, is the daughter of music director J. Om Prakash. Hrithik has an older sister named Sunaina Roshan. The Roshan family has deep-rooted ties to the Hindi film industry, making Hrithik’s exposure to cinema inevitable from an early age.
Hrithik attended the Bombay Scottish School in Mumbai. Despite suffering from a congenital condition called polydactyly (he was born with an extra thumb on his right hand), Hrithik grew up with high self-confidence. He also struggled with a severe stammering problem during his childhood, which he overcame through therapy, determination, and rigorous practice.
For higher education, he enrolled at Sydenham College, University of Mumbai, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree. During his college days, he also participated in dance and theatrical performances, which gave him the confidence to pursue a career in entertainment.
Hrithik Roshan Bollywood Career
Early Appearances (As Child Artist)
Hrithik made his first on-screen appearance at the age of six in a dance sequence for his grandfather’s film, Aasha (1980). He later featured as a child artist in Bhagwan Dada (1986), sharing screen space with Rajinikanth and Sridevi. He worked as an assistant director for his father’s films such as Karan Arjun and Koyla before debuting as a leading actor.
Debut and Meteoric Rise: Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000)
Hrithik Roshan made his debut as a leading actor in Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000), directed by his father. The film became a blockbuster, making Hrithik an overnight superstar. His dual role, muscular build, dancing prowess, and charming looks made him an instant youth icon. He won Filmfare Awards for Best Male Debut and Best Actor—a rare feat for a debutant.
Ups and Downs (2001–2003)
Following his debut, Hrithik starred in several films including Fiza (2000), Mission Kashmir (2000), and Yaadein (2001). While some of these films performed moderately, others failed to impress. Critics began labeling him a one-film wonder. However, his resilience and dedication would soon prove them wrong.
Reinvention and Stardom: Koi… Mil Gaya and Krrish
In 2003, Hrithik reinvented himself with Koi… Mil Gaya, a science fiction film about a mentally challenged young man who befriends an alien. The film was a massive success, and Hrithik’s performance was hailed as one of his finest. It won him multiple awards and helped reposition his career.
This success laid the foundation for the Krrish franchise, India’s first superhero series. In Krrish (2006) and Krrish 3 (2013), Hrithik played the titular role, becoming the face of India’s homegrown superhero. The franchise established him as a bankable superstar who could blend emotion, action, and dance with panache.
Versatile Roles and Critical Acclaim (2006–2012)
Hrithik continued to showcase his versatility in films like:
- Dhoom 2 (2006): A suave thief with unmatched dancing skills.
- Jodhaa Akbar (2008): He portrayed Mughal emperor Akbar with grace and royal gravitas, winning a Filmfare Award.
- Guzaarish (2010): Played a quadriplegic magician in a deeply emotional performance.
- Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011): A layered, introspective role in a film that connected with youth and philosophy of life.
- Agneepath (2012): A gritty reboot of the original, Hrithik impressed in an intense, revenge-driven narrative.
Post-2013: Bigger Budgets and Mega Hits
- Bang Bang! (2014), a remake of the Hollywood film Knight and Day, featured Hrithik in a high-octane action role opposite Katrina Kaif.
- Mohenjo Daro (2016), though ambitious, failed commercially.
- Kaabil (2017) saw him as a blind man seeking revenge; the film was a critical and commercial success.
- Super 30 (2019) was based on mathematician Anand Kumar’s life. Hrithik’s de-glamorized performance was widely appreciated.
- War (2019) opposite Tiger Shroff became one of the highest-grossing films of the year, highlighting Hrithik’s unbeatable charisma and action-dance combo.
Upcoming Projects
Hrithik will reprise his role as Kabir in War 2 (2025) and is also working on Krrish 4, expected to be a visually groundbreaking venture. His career, spanning over two decades, continues to evolve with changing audience preferences and industry dynamics.
Dance Career
Hrithik Roshan is widely recognized as one of the best dancers in Bollywood history. His style is an amalgamation of pop, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and Indian classical movements. His songs like “Ek Pal Ka Jeena,” “Dhoom Again,” “Bang Bang,” and “Ghungroo” have iconic dance sequences that redefined choreography in Hindi cinema.
He was trained under dance guru Shiamak Davar and even took inspiration from international legends like Michael Jackson. Hrithik’s rhythm, athleticism, body control, and expressions make him a visual delight on the dance floor.
He launched HRX, a fitness and lifestyle brand, partially inspired by his dance routines and commitment to body wellness.
Hrithik Roshan Marriage Life
Hrithik married his childhood sweetheart Sussanne Khan (interior designer and daughter of actor Sanjay Khan) on December 20, 2000. The couple has two sons:
- Hrehaan Roshan (born 2006)
- Hridhaan Roshan (born 2008)
After 14 years of marriage, Hrithik and Sussanne divorced amicably in 2014. Despite their separation, they maintain a cordial relationship and co-parent their sons. Their mature handling of the divorce was widely praised in the media.
Since then, Hrithik has been linked to several celebrities, including actress Kangana Ranaut in a much-publicized controversy. As of 2025, he is reportedly in a steady relationship with actress and singer Saba Azad.
Social Media Handles
Hrithik Roshan is among the most followed Indian celebrities across social media platforms:
- Instagram: @hrithikroshan — 49+ million followers
- Twitter (now X): @iHrithik — 31+ million followers
- Facebook: Hrithik Roshan — 26+ million followers
He uses social media to promote his films, endorse brands, share personal fitness regimes, and support social causes. His motivational posts and behind-the-scenes dance rehearsals are particularly popular among fans.
Hrithik Roshan Net Worth and Business Ventures
As of 2025, Hrithik Roshan’s estimated net worth is over ₹3000 crore (approx. $360 million USD).
Income Sources:
- Film Fees: Charges ₹65–₹85 crore per film.
- Brand Endorsements: Ambassador for brands like Coca-Cola, Mountain Dew, Tata Tigor, and HRX.
- HRX Brand: Co-founded with Exceed Entertainment in 2013, HRX sells activewear and fitness gear and is valued at over ₹600 crore.
- Property Investments: Owns multiple luxury apartments in Mumbai, including a seafacing mansion in Juhu.
- Royalties and Collaborations: Earns through music rights, streaming platforms, and business tie-ups.
He is often ranked in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list and was named the “Sexiest Asian Man in the World” by UK-based Eastern Eye multiple times.
Philanthropy and Social Work
Hrithik is deeply involved in charity and philanthropic activities. He supports:
- IIFA’s Teach for India campaign
- The Akshaya Patra Foundation
- Free surgeries for stammering children
- COVID-19 aid initiatives during the pandemic
He is also an advocate for mental health awareness, openly discussing his battles with depression and anxiety.
Awards and Achievements
Hrithik Roshan has received:
- 6 Filmfare Awards: including Best Actor for Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, Koi… Mil Gaya, Dhoom 2, and Jodhaa Akbar.
- IIFA Awards, Zee Cine Awards, Screen Awards, and Stardust Awards
- Padma Shri (expected): While not yet awarded, there is ongoing public sentiment for him to be honored for his contribution to cinema.
Legacy and Influence
Hrithik Roshan redefined the parameters of a Bollywood hero. He combined:
- A dancer’s agility
- An actor’s emotional depth
- A model’s physique
- A superstar’s charisma
Actors like Tiger Shroff, Varun Dhawan, and Siddharth Malhotra cite Hrithik as a major influence. International fans adore his films for their energy and visual appeal.
Conclusion
Hrithik Roshan’s journey from a child with speech difficulties to a national icon is a story of relentless self-belief, artistic pursuit, and transformation. Whether it’s in front of the camera or on the dance floor, he continues to inspire millions with his dedication, humility, and excellence.
