Forgotten Blockbuster Directors: Can They Make Comeback?

Bollywood Directors Await Their Comeback

Hindi film industry has witnessed the work of various directors over the years. But a few of them have taken a long break, and the audiences are eagerly waiting for their return in the same form.

The first is R. Balki, who has always left an impression with his themes. Although Balki’s movies are not made for the single-screen audiences, they have frequently left a mark at the box office. Notably, his last big-screen release was Ghoomer in 2023.

Next is Farhan Akhtar, who delivered memorable films like Dil Chahta Hai and Lakshya. He even gave a new form to Amitabh Bachchan’s Don in its remake with Shah Rukh Khan. After Don 2 in 2011, Farhan has tried to return to the director’s seat with Don 3 and Jee Le Zaraa. Unfortunately, both the projects have been stuck in production-related issues.

Just like Farhan, Farah Khan’s films have become cult classics over the years. The well-known choreographer has always made films that attracted the masses, including Main Hoon Na, Tees Maar Khan, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year.

While audiences are desperate for her comeback, she has claimed in a recent vlog that it will happen soon, and she is supposed to start working on her next film by the end of 2026.

Sujoy Ghosh is remembered by everyone for his brilliant direction in Kahaani. Although he was supposed to return with Shah Rukh Khan’s King, the duties were handed over to Siddharth Anand. After Badla in 2019, audiences are eagerly waiting for his return.

Zoya Akhtar has shifted to the small screen after leaving an impression with Gully Boy in 2019. Zoya’s themes have always worked in attracting the youth, and everyone is willing to see what she brings next.

Ashutosh Gowariker has a long list of titles in his filmography, with Jodhaa Akbar and Lagaan being the only big hits. His remaining work has received critical acclaim, but they have failed to show a big impact at the box office. While the latest reports have revealed that he and Aamir Khan are working on the latter’s new film, Lalkaar, an official announcement is awaited.

Shimit Amin, known for Chak De! India is also returning soon with Captain India, which features Kartik Aaryan in the lead. The movie is scheduled to release in 2027.

Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari has also managed to leave an impression with films that always focus on small towns. Bareilly Ki Barfi is a perfect example. But she has been on a break since 2020 after Panga and has not shared any updates about her next project.

The same can be said for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. His work connected with the youth in Rang De Basanti and attracted the masses in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. But apart from these, his movies have been largely ignored due to low marketing and buzz. Despite all these issues, audiences are waiting to see his work again.

Rakesh Roshan gave some cult classic blockbusters to the Hindi film industry for many years. Krrish 3 was the last film that he directed, and it was also a Diwali blockbuster in 2013. While reports of Krrish 4 have emerged from time to time, the rumours claim that Rakesh won’t return to direct the sequel.

Netizens reacted by saying that these are the only directors who can bring the film industry back to a normal position. But only time will tell how long these directors are going to take to plan something and leave an impression on the audience once again.