Mahesh Bhatt’s Doubts and Emraan Hashmi’s Breakthrough
When Emraan Hashmi was offered the role of Shoaib Khan, a character inspired by the notorious gangster Dawood Ibrahim, in the 2010 film “Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai,” his uncle and acclaimed director Mahesh Bhatt had serious reservations about the decision
Photograph Source:- NDTV
Bhatt’s Initial Concerns
Mahesh Bhatt, known for his keen eye for talent and storytelling, was worried that Hashmi’s portrayal of such a negative character would be detrimental to his career. Bhatt believed that the audience’s perception of Hashmi would change overnight, and he warned the young actor that his “career will be over” if he took on this role.
Bhatt’s concerns were understandable. The character of Shoaib Khan was a ruthless and powerful gangster, and Bhatt feared that Hashmi’s association with such a character would typecast him and make it difficult for him to take on more positive roles in the future.
Hashmi’s Determination
Despite his uncle’s reservations, Emraan Hashmi decided to take on the challenge. He was convinced that playing a complex and morally ambiguous character would allow him to showcase his acting range and depth. Hashmi believed that taking risks was the key to success in the film industry, and he was willing to take a chance on this unconventional role.
The Film’s Success and Bhatt’s Apology
To Bhatt’s surprise, the film was a resounding success, and Hashmi’s performance as Shoaib Khan was widely acclaimed. The film’s climax, where the protagonist is killed and Shoaib Khan begins to rule the city, was a significant risk, but it ultimately contributed to the film’s success.
Photograph Source :- Google
Bhatt, who had initially doubted Hashmi’s decision, later admitted that he was wrong. He apologized to the film’s director, Milan Luthria, acknowledging that the film was entertaining rather than dark, and that Hashmi’s performance had not harmed his career, but rather, had helped him to establish himself as a versatile and talented actor.
The Lasting Impact
Emraan Hashmi’s decision to take on the role of Shoaib Khan in “Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai” proved to be a turning point in his career. The film not only showcased his acting prowess but also demonstrated his willingness to take risks and challenge the conventional wisdom of the industry.
Bhatt’s initial doubts and Hashmi’sdetermination to prove him wrong serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of taking calculated risks in the pursuit of artistic excellence. This episode in their careers highlights the dynamic relationship between an actor and a director, and the ways in which they can influence and inspire each other to push the boundaries of their craft.
