The Roshans documentary series, directed by Shashi Ranjan, offers a rare, deeply personal look into a family that has played a pivotal role in shaping Bollywood across three generations. Through its four episodes, the series captures the highs and lows of the Roshan family’s legacy, from the early struggles of Roshan Lal Nagrath, to the rise of his sons Rakesh and Rajesh and grandson Hrithik, each contributing uniquely to Hindi cinema.
The series begins with an exploration of Roshan’s journey, beginning with his humble beginnings and rise to prominence in the 1950s and 60s, when his compositions stood out among the competition. Through interviews with legendary singers and musicians like Asha Bhosle, Suman Kalyanpur, and Usha Mangeshkar, as well as lyricist Javed Akhtar, viewers are treated to stories of his groundbreaking work, including his iconic qawwalis and unforgettable songs. The way Roshan’s music left an indelible mark on the industry is emphasized through personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes recollections, showing his enduring influence even as the industry moved on from his style.
One of the most touching aspects of the series is how Hrithik Roshan reflects on his grandfather’s music. In one memorable moment, he says, “This is my grandfather’s voice,” when listening to an old tape, highlighting the emotional connection that binds the family. His admiration for Roshan’s artistry is palpable and serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted legacy that continues to shape his own artistic journey.
As the series moves forward, it shifts focus to Rajesh Roshan, who carved out his own successful career as a composer. His early struggles, including his challenges in finding a foothold in the industry, are highlighted, as well as his eventual triumphs. Through insightful commentary from contemporaries like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the docuseries shows how Rajesh’s work was unique. A particularly powerful moment is when Asha Bhosle reveals that even the great RD Burman admired Rajesh’s music, underscoring how his melodies resonated across generations of musicians.
Rakesh Roshan’s journey forms the third part of the series. Initially an actor struggling to make a mark in Bollywood, Rakesh found his true calling behind the camera as a director. His story of perseverance and reinvention is one of the most inspiring in the series. From his early struggles as an actor to his rise as one of Bollywood’s top directors, Rakesh’s transformation is central to the Roshan family’s legacy. The series thoughtfully explores his most significant films, such as Koi… Mil Gaya and Krrish, which reshaped the Indian film landscape, making science fiction and superhero genres accessible to Indian audiences. Through interviews with actors like Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra, Rakesh’s unique vision and ability to craft groundbreaking films come to life. Hrithik shares his experiences of collaborating with his father on these films, offering a glimpse into the creative bond between them.
The final act of the series focuses on Hrithik Roshan, whose debut in Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai made him an overnight sensation. While his career seemed destined for success, it was also marked by moments of intense personal and professional struggle. The series does not shy away from discussing the challenges Hrithik faced, such as the near-fatal attack on his father shortly after the film’s success. His reflections on how failures shaped his journey, and how they led him to become the man and artist he is today, are a poignant reminder of the resilience that runs through the Roshan family.
What truly sets The Roshans apart is its balance. While the family’s accomplishments are celebrated, the series is not afraid to confront the hardships and vulnerabilities they faced along the way. The docuseries is neither overly sentimental nor overly critical, offering a nuanced portrayal of a family that has shaped the landscape of Indian cinema. The candid interviews, archival footage, and personal anecdotes offer a holistic and authentic view of the family’s journey, making it more than just a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Throughout the series, there is an underlying theme of how family legacy and bonds can transcend generations. Just as Roshan’s music continues to influence the industry decades later, the Roshan family’s collective contribution to Bollywood remains ever-present, with each member building on the foundation laid by the one before. This deeply personal look at the family’s creative and emotional journey serves as both a tribute to their remarkable impact on Indian cinema and a reminder of the dedication and resilience required to build and maintain a legacy across generations.
With its honest portrayal, this documentary series invites audiences to witness the emotional depth, struggles, and triumphs of the Roshans in a way that feels both personal and universally relatable. The series is currently streaming on Netflix.
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