Sanjay Leela Bhansali is a renowned Indian filmmaker celebrated for his visually stunning and emotionally resonant films. His contributions to Indian cinema have earned him numerous accolades and a dedicated following.
Biography/Wiki
Born on February 24, 1963, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, Sanjay Leela Bhansali hails from a Gujarati Kshatriya (Solanki) family. His father, Navin Bhansali, was a film producer, and his mother, Leela Bhansali, was a tailor. He has a sister named Bela Segal. He is a graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and founded Bhansali Productions in 1997, launching a prolific career in filmmaking.
Physical Appearance
Sanjay Leela Bhansali stands at approximately 5’9″ tall and weighs around 75 kg. He is distinguished by his dark brown eyes and now white hair.
Family, Caste & Girlfriend
Bhansali’s family background is deeply rooted in Gujarati culture. He was previously engaged to choreographer Vaibhavi Merchant, though the relationship eventually ended.
Career
Bhansali’s journey began as an assistant director to Vidhu Vinod Chopra on films like Parinda and 1942: A Love Story. His directorial debut, Khamoshi: The Musical (1996), though not a commercial success, garnered critical acclaim. Subsequent films like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999) and Devdas (2002) solidified his position as a leading director in Bollywood.
His career extends beyond feature films. He’s judged reality TV shows like Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and X Factor India, directed the stage opera Padmavati, and produced the television serial Saraswatichandra. His filmography includes critically acclaimed works such as Black (2005), Guzaarish (2010), Mary Kom (2014), Bajirao Mastani (2015), and Padmaavat (2018). His recent film, Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), has been recognized internationally.
Controversies
Bhansali’s career has not been without controversy. His films, particularly Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela and Padmaavat, faced significant opposition and protests due to perceived historical inaccuracies and religious sensitivities.
- Ram-Leela faced legal challenges and bans in certain regions.
- Padmaavat faced violent protests and attacks on the film’s sets.
Awards
Bhansali has received numerous prestigious awards for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema.
| Award | Year | Film |
|---|---|---|
| National Film Award – Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment | 2002 | Devdas |
| National Film Award – Best Feature Film in Hindi | 2005 | Black |
| National Film Award – Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment | 2014 | Mary Kom |
| National Film Award – Best Director | 2015 | Bajirao Mastani |
| National Film Award – Best Music Director | 2018 | Padmaavat |
| National Film Award – Best Screenplay & Best Editing | 2023 | Gangubai Kathiawadi |
Facts
- Enjoys reading poetry and listening to vintage music in his free time.
- Considers Mughal-E-Azam (1960) his all-time favorite film.
- Favors the Gujarati song “Mor Bani Thanghat Kare” and admires A.R. Rahman’s musical talent.
- Lists Dada Kondke and Dilip Kumar among his favorite actors, and Helen and Madhuri Dixit as his favorite actresses.
- Gangubai Kathiawadi was among the films considered for the Oscars in 2023.
