Subhash Ghai (b. 1943)

Hindi director born in Nagpur. Along with Manmohan Desai and Ramesh Sippy, one of the top producer-directors of 80s Hindi cinema. Graduated as actor from the FTII (1968), then actor and scenarist, collaborating with B.B. Bhalla (e.g. Khan Dost, 1976). Directorial début produced by N.N. Sippy. Broke through with Karz. Lavish song picturisations underline his commitment to big- screen spectaculars. Claims independence from the star system but relies on it for his extravagant marketing campaigns, regularly using Dilip Kumar, Anil Kapoor and Jackie Shroff. Also acted in a number of films (Aradhana, 1969; Umang, 1970; Bharat Ke Shaheed and Do Bachche Dus Haath, 1972; Grahan, 1972; Dhamki, 1973; Natak, 1975). Became independent producer with his own Mukta Arts (1983). His most recent feature, Khalnayak, attracted censorship problems because of Madhuri Dixit’s performance of the provocative song Choli ke peeche. The film also featured Sanjay Dutt who was arrested shortly before its release charged with being implicated in the bomb explosions in Bombay in March 1993. Also produced Uttar Dakshin (1987) and Mukul Anand’s Trimurti (1995).

FILMOGRAPHY: 1976: Kalicharan; 1978: Vishwanath; 1979: Gautam Govinda; 1980: Karz; 1981: Krodhi; 1982: Vidhata; Meri Jung; 1983: Hero; 1986: Karma; 1989: Ram Lakhan; 1991: Saudagar; 1993: Khalnayak.

Director