Mahesh Bhatt, a renowned figure in Bollywood, is a celebrated Indian film director, producer, and screenwriter. His contributions to Indian cinema span decades and continue to influence the industry.

Wiki/Biography

Mahesh Bhatt was born on Monday, September 20, 1948 (age 75 as of 2023), in Bombay. His zodiac sign is Virgo. He completed his schooling at Don Bosco High School, Matunga.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5’7”
• Eye Colour: Dark Brown
• Hair Colour: Salt & Pepper; Semi-Bald

Family, Caste & Wife

Mahesh Bhatt’s father, Nanabhai Bhatt, was a prominent film director and producer in Hindi and Gujarati cinema. His father was a Hindu Nagar Brahmin, while his mother, Shirin Mohammad Ali, was a Gujarati Shia Muslim and Nanabhai’s second wife. Hemalata Bhatt, Nanabhai’s first wife, was Mahesh’s stepmother.

He has four brothers: Mukesh Bhatt (film producer), Dhaval Bhatt (editor), Robin Bhatt (writer), and Parmesh Bhatt. He also has four sisters, three of whom are Mamta, Sheila Darshan, and Heena Suri. Mahesh Bhatt married Kiran Bhatt (Lorraine Bright) in 1970, and they have two children: Rahul Bhatt (fitness trainer and actor) and Pooja Bhatt (actress and filmmaker). The couple eventually separated. He later married Soni Razdan (British actress and film director) in 1986. They have two daughters: Shaheen Bhatt (writer/director) and Alia Bhatt (actress).

Career

As a Director

Mahesh Bhatt’s career began with product advertisements. After assisting director Raj Khosla, he made his directorial debut with “Manzilein Aur Bhi Hain” in 1974. His first commercial success was “Naam” in 1984. He directed many successful films, including “Saaransh,” “Aashiqui,” “Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin,” “Sadak,” and “Zakhm.” His last directorial venture before focusing on screenwriting was “Kartoos” (1999). He later returned to directing with “Sadak 2” (2020). His television debut was with “Swabhimaan” (1995) on DD National.

As a Screenwriter

His first screenplay was for “Arth” (1982). After retiring from directing, he wrote the screenplay for “Sangharsh” (1999) and many other notable Bollywood films, including “Dushman,” “Raaz,” “Murder,” “Gangster,” “Woh Lamhe,” and “Hamari Adhuri Kahani.”

As a Producer

He debuted as a film producer with “Papa Kehte Hain” (1996), alongside Amit Khanna. He produces films under the banner “Vishesh Films,” co-owned with his brother Mukesh Bhatt, named after Mukesh’s son, Vishesh Bhatt.

Other Works

Mahesh Bhatt also ventured into acting, making his debut in “The Dark Side of Life: Mumbai City” (2018). He even sang the title track of the movie “Mr. X” with Mili.

Controversies

Mahesh Bhatt has faced several controversies throughout his career. One notable incident involved a controversial Filmfare magazine cover featuring him kissing his daughter Pooja Bhatt. He also had a strained relationship with his son, Rahul Bhatt, which has since improved.

Other controversies include allegations made by Rangoli Chandel about an incident with Kangana Ranaut, and criticism following Sushant Singh Rajput’s death. His comments about Sushant’s mental health sparked significant social media backlash.

Awards

Mahesh Bhatt has received numerous accolades throughout his career. He has won three National Film Awards and three Filmfare Awards.

Favourite Things

• Actors: Jeffrey Tambor, Dilip Kumar
• Sport: Cricket

Facts

Mahesh Bhatt had a fascinating childhood and personal life, including his relationship with his mother and his views on religion. His film career was inspired in part by personal experiences and relationships. He has also been involved in various social and political causes.

Many of his films draw inspiration from his own life, relationships, and encounters. He is known for launching the careers of numerous successful actors in Bollywood. He also has a deep interest in philosophy and has written biographies on U.G. Krishnamurti, a philosopher whose teachings influenced Bhatt significantly.

His involvement with various social organizations and his outspoken political views further showcase the multifaceted personality of Mahesh Bhatt.