New Delhi [India], January 24 : As Bollywood's beloved 'Showman,' Subhash Ghai has spent decades shaping the Indian film industry with his larger-than-life films, unforgettable music, and powerful storytelling.
On the occasion of his birthday, let's take a walk down memory lane to revisit five of his finest works, each leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Here are five films that truly highlight the brilliance of Subhash Ghai.
1. Karma (1986):

Starring Dilip Kumar, Sridevi, Anupam Kher, Jackie Shroff, Anil Kapoor, Naseeruddin Shah and others the movie was released at a time when action-packed Bollywood films were taking the lead. Karma was a bold, multi-starrer that set the stage for a new era in Indian cinema. Subhash Ghai's direction blended patriotism, action, and a gripping storyline making the film one of the best works of Indian cinema. The ensemble cast delivered powerful performances, and the film's successful mix of drama and action made it a significant box-office hit.
2. Ram Lakhan (1989)

Starring Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Madhuri Dixit, Dimple Kapadia, Rakhee Gulzar and Amrish Puri in the lead roles Ram Lakhan remains one of Subhash Ghai's most cherished films. What made it special was its combination of high-octane drama, sibling rivalry, and unforgettable music. The film's heartwarming portrayal of family values, the strong emotional conflict between brothers, and the iconic music, including tracks like "My Name Is Lakhan," have ensured its timeless appeal.
3. Taal (1999)

'Taal' stars Aishwarya Rai, Akshaye Khanna, Anil Kapoor and Amrish Puri in the lead roles. Known for its stunning music and beautiful cinematography, 'Taal' is Subhash Ghai's exploration of the music industry and the intersection of tradition and modernity. Aishwarya Rai's ethereal presence, paired with AR Rahman's soulful music, made the film a visual and auditory treat.
4. Hero (1983)

Starring Jackie Shroff, and Meenakshi Sheshadri in the lead roles, what made the movie special is that it not only launched Jackie Shroff into superstardom but also showcased Subhash Ghai's ability to shape and direct a superstar. The story of a young man who struggles between crime and love became an instant hit, thanks to its emotional depth, high-energy action sequences, and vibrant music. The film marked the beginning of an era where Ghai's trademark style of making films that combined both commercial appeal and artistic value was born.
5. Khalnayak (1993)

Starring Sanjay Dutt, Madhuri Dixit, and Jackie Shroff in the lead roles, with 'Khalnayak', Subhash Ghai turned the spotlight onto the villain. Featuring a dark, brooding performance by Sanjay Dutt as the anti-hero, Khalnayak explored themes of redemption, love, and lawlessness. The film was both a critical and commercial success, thanks to its compelling storyline and Ghai's dynamic direction. The song "Choli Ke Peeche" became a sensational chart-topper, adding to the film's immense popularity.
While these films stand out as some of Ghai's finest, his legacy is filled with several other gems like Saudagar (1991) and Pardes (1997), both of which offered gripping storytelling and iconic performances that resonated with audiences long after the credits rolled.