MAHESH BHATT : RAHA’S GRAND FATHER

By Anshika Khera

Mahesh Bhatt is a renowned Indian filmmaker, producer, and screenwriter known for his bold storytelling and unconventional approach to cinema. Born on September 20, 1948, in Mumbai, he began his career in the 1970s and gained recognition with the film Arth (1982), a semi-autobiographical story exploring love, betrayal, and relationships. The film established him as a director who was unafraid to address complex social and emotional issues.

Throughout his career, Bhatt created a distinctive space in Hindi cinema by blending realism with commercial appeal. Films like Saaransh (1984), Naam (1986), and Zakhm (1998) are regarded as some of his finest works, often inspired by his personal experiences. He is also credited with introducing fresh talent to the industry, including actors like Anupam Kher, Rahul Roy, Emraan Hashmi, and directors like Mohit Suri.

Beyond directing, Bhatt has been a successful producer under his banner, Vishesh Films, co-founded with his brother Mukesh Bhatt, producing numerous hit films in the 1990s and 2000s. Known for his outspoken nature, he has often stirred debates on politics, society, and cinema. Though controversial at times, Mahesh Bhatt remains an influential figure in Indian cinema for his courage to tell raw, unfiltered stories.