Hrishikesh Mukherjee (30 September 1922 – 27 August 2006) is known for a number of films, including Satyakam, Chupke Chupke, Anupama, Anand, Abhimaan, Guddi, Gol Maal, Majhli Didi, Chaitali, Aashirwad, Bawarchi, Kissi Se Na Kehna and Namak Haraam.
Popularly known as Hrishi-da, he directed 42 films during his career spanning over four decades, and is named the pioneer of the 'middle cinema' of India. Renowned for his social films that reflected the changing middle-class ethos, Mukherjee "carved a middle path between the extravagance of mainstream cinema and the stark realism of art cinema".
He also remained the chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC). The Government of India honoured him with the Dada Saheb Phalke Award in 1999 and the Padma Vibhushan in 2001. He received the NTR National Award in 2001 and he also won eight Filmfare Awards.
It is the story of a spirited man who is suffering from a terminal disease. But his love for life doesn't cease even after he gets to know that he is standing at the cliff that will inevitably lead to his death. However, it is not a sad film. Melancholic, yes but Anand makes you smile just as easily as it makes you shed tears.
Such was the directorial genius of Hrishikesh Mukherjee that even in a film that surrounds around a man's death, he doesn't resort to the obvious emotional drama. He lets you live in the moment while constantly reminding you that "Zindagi kaisi hai paheli haaye, kabhi yeh hasaye, kabhi yeh rulaye."
The four decades worth of extraordinary filmmaking he gave to Bollywood will be remembered every time someone watches Anand, Gol Maal or Abhimaan – three films that are so different to each other. His made movies that made us cry. He made movies that made us laugh. But most of all he made movies which, along with some superb story-telling, had a lot of heart.
Some of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s best films on his death anniversary
1. Anand
Anand is one of the greatest Indian films ever made. Anand also has an iconic Rajesh Khanna performance. From every time he said "Babu Moshai" to joyfully singing "Zindagi Kaisi Hai Paheli" - kal ho na ho but Anand will remain a classic forever.
2. Abhimaan
Abhimaan is one of Hrishi Da's best dramas. A story of two artists in a relationship and the best film Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan have done together. The glorious music by SD Burman features evergreen songs including Tere Mere Milan Ki Yeh Raina and Teri Bindiya Re.
Hrishikesh Mukherjee was known for his comedies. This screwball comedy is considered his best as it not only has some memorable gags but some terrific dialogues. The words "Gol maal hai bhai sab gol maal hai" are quoted everywhere and that itself shows the lasting impact of this great film.
Chupke Chupke is an extremely likeable and innocent comedy. Thanks to the wonderful performances of Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan this is a bonafide comic classic.
Khubsoorat is a fun and engaging movie starring Rekha, who is an absolute joy to behold. Her effortless charm coupled with a beautiful yet simple story is reason enough to watch this film over and over again.
Guddi was responsible for giving Jaya Bhaduri's career a major boost. A young girl obsessed with an actor, where Dharmendra plays himself.
Namak Haraam is a beautiful exploration of the bonds of friendship. More than that, it was the film that became the turning point in the careers of two actors - Rajesh Khanna and Amitabbh Bachchan.
8. Anuradha
Anuradha isn’t just the story of a woman who has to choose between singing and her marriage. It also depicts the struggle of a man who tries to win back her love.
9. Mili
Jaya Bhaduri played Mili, a girl suffering from pernicious anemia. This film made people fall in love with Mili in 1975 and continues to do so today.
10. Asli-Naqli
Asli-Naqli is the story of a spoilt rich boy played by Dev Anand, who renounces the life of opulence and decides to look for love and happiness on the streets of Mumbai. It’s an amazing example of a feel good movie.
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