Himesh - India's next successful singer-actor?

Himesh - India's next successful singer-actor?
Saturday, July 14, 2007 15:43 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
Maverick music composer and singer Himesh Reshammiya's debut film "Aap Kaa Surroor" has done phenomenal business in India, sparking speculations that he might become a successful singer-actor that Bollywood has been deprived of for decades.

Bollywood produced its first big singer-actor when K.L. Saigal stepped into the industry, acted in around 30 films and enthralled masses with his acclaimed flicks like "Devdas" and "Parwana". After him, it was Talat Mahmood who tried his luck in acting but was greeted with mixed response. Talat did 13 films.

Bollywood's best singer-actor was Kishore Kumar, who galloped to stardom not only with his voice but also with his acting. Kishore Kumar starred in around 80 films and was appreciated by the masses for his performance in movies like "Half Ticket", "Shreeman Funtoosh" and "Padosan".

After Kishore Kumar, many renowned singers like Sonu Nigam, Kumar Sanu, Shaan and others tried their hands at acting but met with disastrous box-office results.

Himesh's film, on the contrary, has landed a hit by collecting over Rs.90 million in the domestic box office and around Rs.8.1 million in cash counters in Britain.

Bollywood scholars feel star singers have failed to become acting sensations over the years because modern audiences wanted to see trained actors doing the job rather than spend money to see just anyone acting.

"In the past people had to be singers to act in movies due to technological constraints," said Derek Bose, a veteran film scholar. "When Saigal was acting, everyone had to be a singer-actor because there was no scope for dubbing or playback like today. Among these bunch of people, Saigal was the best no doubt.

"Then if you talk about the others like Kishore (Kumar) and Lata, they came to Bollywood to act but ended up becoming singers. Earlier, it was easy for a singer to become an actor because unlike today, the audiences were compromising and forgiving.

"But now with people watching quality acting, it's very difficult for an untrained person to make it big in the industry because all actors, even mediocre ones, have gone through some training. So singers have not been able to match up to them over the years," Bose noted.

Analysts feel that Bollywood can expect Himesh to emerge as a good singer-actor but add that his consistency of landing hits is still to be tested.

"Himesh's real test begins now. Though he has done well in his debut, it should be remembered that it was backed by his close set of people," said a trade analyst.

"It is to be seen whether other producers and directors approach him with roles," he said. "One thing is for sure - Himesh is loved by the masses but it will be interesting to see how he acts in multiple star cast films and roles that are more challenging. Also, he should act in multiple genres like comedies to prove how versatile he is. He has got what it takes to become successful."
Varun Dhawan Unveils First Poster of 'Nain Matakka' Featuring Keerthy Suresh!

Varun Dhawan's upcoming film Baby John is already creating waves in the entertainment world. The latest buzz surrounds the highly anticipated track "Nain Matakka," and the excitement reached new heights when Varun shared the

Friday, November 22, 2024
'Agni' Trailer Unveiled: A Tribute to Firefighters' Bravery and Sacrifice!

The much-anticipated trailer for Agni, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, was released on Thursday, offering a gripping look into the world of firefighters, their bravery, and the sacrifices they make to protect

Friday, November 22, 2024
Sara Ali Khan Shares Fun BTS Moments from Ad Shoot, Invites Fans to Let Their Spirits Soar!

Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delightful behind-the-scenes (BTS) glimpse from her latest advertisement shoot, revealing her cheerful mood and creative spirit. In a playful and heartwarming post, Sara shared a video

Friday, November 22, 2024
Kartik Aaryan Enjoys Quality Time with 'Sea, Sand, and Sun' at IFFI Goa!

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, who is currently in Goa for the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and Filmazaar, took a moment to unwind and connect with nature. The actor shared a series of serene pictures on his Instagram, showcasing

Friday, November 22, 2024
Shehnaaz Gill Starts Shooting for Punjabi Film: A New Journey Begins!

Actress and social media sensation Shehnaaz Gill is all set to embark on a new chapter in her career, as she commences shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film. The actress shared her excitement with her fans on Instagram, marking this milestone

Friday, November 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT