David Dhawan: The Maestro of Bollywood Masala Turns 74

By Amit Kumar

As Bollywood’s beloved director David Dhawan celebrates his 74th birthday, the Hindi film industry raises a toast to a career that has delivered both uproarious laughter and box office gold for nearly four decades. The man who made stars dance, audiences roar, and critics take notice remains as energetic as ever, shaping the evolving script of commercial Hindi cinema.

Born Rajinder Dhawan in Agartala on 16 August 1951, David’s early life was far from the glitz of Mumbai. His journey began with a love for cinema at FTII, Pune, where a pet name given by his neighbours became his enduring identity. Inspired by legends like Manmohan Desai and Ritwik Ghatak, and after a humble start as an editor, Dhawan soon realized his true calling lay behind the camera.

David Dhawan redefined comedy in Bollywood, especially through his epic collaborations with Govinda, with whom he delivered 18 unstoppable hits. From the emotional family drama Swarg to the madcap energy of Aankhen, Coolie No. 1, Hero No. 1, and Biwi No.1, Dhawan established himself as the undisputed king of the ’90s comedy genre. His films Aankhen (1993) and Biwi No.1 (1999) earned him coveted Filmfare nominations for Best Director.

Known for his signature masala blend, overflowing with slapstick, heart, and melody, Dhawan kept audiences coming back for more. Whether it was the twin chaos of Judwaa and Judwaa 2, the star-studded Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, the riotous Haseena Maan Jaayegi, or bringing together Salman Khan and Govinda in Partner, his brand of cinema remains synonymous with pure entertainment.

For his immense contribution, Dhawan claimed the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024, capping a journey that boasts over 45 directorial ventures and a legacy carried forward by sons Rohit and Varun Dhawan.

From humble edits to box office blockbusters, David Dhawan’s journey is the stuff of Bollywood

legend, a director who gave India permission to laugh, sing, and believe in second chances. And as the cameras keep rolling, his magic shows no sign of slowing down