Jump to content

Ajay Devgn

Page semi-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Loveforwiki (talk | contribs) at 11:01, 7 October 2024 (Yup he is). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.

Ajay Devgn
Devgn in 2018
Born
Vishal Veeru Devgan[1]

2 April 1969 (1969-04-02) (age 55)
Other namesAjay Devgan
EducationMithibai College
Occupations
  • Actor
  • producer
  • director
Years active1991–present
WorksFull list
Spouse
(m. 1999)
Children2
FatherVeeru Devgan
FamilyDevgan family (by birth)
Mukherjee-Samarth family (by marriage)
AwardsFull list
HonoursPadma Shri (2016)
Websiteajaydevgnffilms.com

Vishal Veeru Devgan (born 2 April 1969), known professionally as Ajay Devgn, is an Indian actor, film director, and producer who works primarily in Hindi cinema. One of the most prolific actors of Hindi cinema, Devgn has appeared in over 100 films and has won numerous accolades, including four National Film Awards and four Filmfare Awards. In 2016, he was honoured by the Government of India with the Padma Shri, the country's fourth-highest civilian honour.[2]

Devgn emerged a star with his first film, the 1991 action romance Phool Aur Kaante, which earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.[3][4] He played further action roles in the films Jigar (1992), Vijaypath (1994), Dilwale (1994), Jaan (1996) and Diljale (1996), and romantic roles in Ishq (1997), Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha (1998) and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999). For playing a riot victim in Zakhm (1998) and Bhagat Singh in The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002), he twice won the National Film Award for Best Actor. He also gained praise for the crime dramas Company (2002) and Omkara (2006).

After expanding to comedies with Rohit Shetty's Golmaal: Fun Unlimited (2006), Devgn collaborated with Shetty on a number of action and comedy films, including Golmaal Returns (2008), Golmaal 3 (2010), Singham (2011), Singham Returns (2014), and Golmaal Again (2017). His highest-grossing releases came with Total Dhamaal (2019), Tanhaji (2020) and Drishyam 2 (2022).[5] For portraying the title role in Tanhaji, he won this third National Film Award for Best Actor.[6]

Devgn owns a production company Ajay Devgn FFilms, which was established in 2000. He has also starred in and directed the films U Me Aur Hum (2008), Runway 34 (2022), and Bholaa (2023). He is married to actress Kajol, with whom he has two children.

Early life and background

Devgn with his wife Kajol at an event in 2020

Devgn was born Vishal Veeru Devgan on 2 April 1969 to a Vishwakarma[7] family originally from Amritsar, Punjab.[8] The family has connections to the Hindi film industry in Mumbai. Devgn's father, Veeru Devgan, was a stunt choreographer and action-film director and his mother, Veena Devgan, is a film producer. His cousin, Anil Devgan, is a filmmaker and screenwriter. Devgn graduated from the Silver Beach High School in Juhu and then studied at Mithibai College.[9][10]

Personal life

Devgn began a relationship with the actress Karisma Kapoor while filming Jigar (1992), however, the couple ended their relationship in 1995.[11] That same year, Devgn's relationship with the actress, Kajol, began whilst they were co-starring in Gundaraj (1995).[12] The media called them "an unlikely pair" due to their contrasting personalities.[13][14] On 24 February 1999, the couple married in a traditional Maharashtrian Hindu ceremony at the Devgan home.[15][16] The couple has two children. Their daughter, Nysa, was born 20 April 2003[17] and their son, Yug, was born 13 September 2010.[18][19][14] Devgn and Kajol stored their newborn son's umbilical cord blood and tissues to act as a source of stem cells in case of serious ailment.[20] In August 2009, Devgn changed the spelling of his surname Devgan to Devgn, at the request of his family.[21] He is a practicing Shaiva Hindu who prominently wears a Rudraksha which, along with other religious themes, features in his films.[22][23][24][25][26] Devgn was the first Bollywood personality to own a private jet for transport to shooting locations, to promotions and for personal trips.[27]

Career

Rise to stardom (1991–99)

As Devgn entered the film industry in 1991, he changed his stage name from his birth name, Vishal, to "Ajay" due to several other actors named Vishal being launched at the same time, including Manoj Kumar's son.[1] He began his professional career alongside Madhoo in the action romance Phool Aur Kaante, which earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.[28][29][30] In his opening scene, Devgn performed a split while balancing between two motorcycles. His next film was Jigar (1992), a Bollywood martial arts film co-starring Karisma Kapoor. It was released on Diwali weekend and became the seventh-highest-grossing film of that year, taking 7 crore (US$840,000) at the box office.[30]

In 1993, Devgn starred in Dil Hai Betaab, a film about a revengeful love triangle. He next featured in Divya Shakti and then Sangram, a story of enmity between two fathers.[31] Devgn then worked with Deepak Bahry, who directed the action film Ek Hi Raasta,[31] and with Deepak Pawar, who directed Platform. Other releases that year were Shaktiman, Dhanwan and Bedardi.[32][33][34]

In 1994, Devgn starred in Harry Baweja's romantic action film Dilwale. He played the part of Arun Saxena, a man with intellectual impairment. The movie was the tenth-highest-grossing movie of the year.[35] His next release was Kanoon and then Kuku Kohli's Suhaag with Akshay Kumar. The film was about two friends. Devgn played Ajay Sharma/Malhotra. Suhaag was the seventh-highest-grossing movie of the year.[35] His next film was Vijaypath. Shooting dates for Vijaypath clashed with those of Karan Arjun which Devgn declined. Vijaypath was the eighth-highest-grossing film of the year.[36]

In 1995, Devgn appeared alongside Juhi Chawla in Mahesh Bhatt's Naajayaz, which earned him his first nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor, followed by Hulchul directed by Milan Luthria, alongside Kajol.[37] Devgn and Kajol then appeared in Gundaraj which did not perform well at the box office.[37] His next release was Haqeeqat[37] co-starring with Tabu. This film was the eleventh-highest-grossing film of the year.[37]

In 1996, Devgn starred in the action movie Jung with Mithun Chakraborty, Rambha and Aditya Pancholi. His next release was an action movie called Jaan,[38] with Twinkle Khanna. He then starred in Harry Baweja's film Diljale, where he played a terrorist character called Shaka.[38]

In 1997, Devgn starred in a poorly -eceived movie, Itihaas, with Twinkle Khanna. His next release was Indra Kumar's romantic comedy Ishq with Aamir Khan, Juhi Chawla and Kajol. In this successful film, Devgn played Ajay, a rich boy in love with a poor girl, played by Kajol.[39] The film grossed 30 crore (US$3.6 million) and emerged as the fourth-highest-grossing film of the year.[39][40]

In 1998, Devgn starred in Major Saab with Amitabh Bachchan and Sonali Bendre where he played the character of an army officer. The movie was successful and was the tenth-highest-grossing film of the year.[41] He next starred with Kajol in Anees Bazmee's second film, the romantic comedy Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, a remake of the 1995 American film French Kiss. It grossed 30.25 crore (US$3.6 million).[41] Devgn's next release was Mahesh Bhatt's drama Zakhm, which examines communal tension in Mumbai during riots. Devgn played a man who is fed up with religious conflict. Devgn won several awards for his critically acclaimed performance, including the National Film Award for Best Actor and the Screen Award for Best Actor, in addition to his second nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor.[42]

In 1999, Devgn starred in the musical romance Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, in which he played Vanraj, a man who tries to help his wife (Aishwarya Rai) reunite with her lover (Salman Khan). Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam marked a significant turning point in Devgn's career. The film, an adaptation of Maitreyi Devi's Bengali novel Na Hanyate, was directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and co-starred Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai. Devgn's performance received positive reviews from critics. Rediff said: "Ajay's role reminds you of one he did in another film, Pyaar Toh Hona Hi Tha. There he is searching for the boyfriend of the girl he secretly loves. But intense scenes are his forte and he does well here. He's particularly good in the scene where he gets exasperated with his wife's stubbornness and strives to keep his cool."[43] The film proved to be a commercial success and earned Devgn his third nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. After that, he appeared in Hindustan Ki Kasam with Amitabh Bachchan and Sonali Bendre.[44] He then worked with the director Milan Luthria in Kachche Dhaage, with Saif Ali Khan and Manisha Koirala. The movie was a box-office hit.[44] He then performed in the successful movie Hogi Pyaar Ki Jeet, a romantic comedy,[44] and then in his home production movie with Kajol, and director, Prakash Jha. The film was titled Dil Kya Kare. His other movies in 1999 were Gair and Thakshak in which he played a strong, silent man.[45][46]

Critical acclaim (2000–09)

In 2000, Devgn performed in Harry Baweja's Deewane. The film did not do well at the box office.[47] In the same year, Devgn starred in his first home production; Raju Chacha, with Kajol. The film was moderately successful.[47]

In 2001, Devgn starred in another moderately successful film; Yeh Raaste Hain Pyaar Ke with Madhuri Dixit and Preity Zinta.[48] His next release was Lajja, with Manisha Koirala, Madhuri Dixit, Jackie Shroff and Anil Kapoor. His performance was positively received and earned him his first nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor. However, the film was commercially unsuccessful.[48] Mahesh Manjrekar's Tera Mera Saath Rahen followed.[49][50]

2002 proved to be a key year for Devgn as he starred in three films of contrasting genres. He first starred in Ram Gopal Varma's Company which was a fictional examination of the Mumbai underworld. Devgn played a gangster named Malik. Both the film and Devgn's performance received critical acclaim. As Taran Adarsh reviewed: "Devgn enacts his role to perfection. A controlled performance, the actor takes to this complex character like a fish takes to water. He underplays his part with admirable ease."[51][52] Devgn's next release was David Dhawan's comedy Hum Kisise Kum Nahin, with Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt and Aishwarya Rai.[52] The same year, he played the role of Bhagat Singh, in Rajkumar Santoshi's biopic The Legend of Bhagat Singh.[53] His performance was well received by critics. Taran Adarsh said, "Devgn has lived the role. To state that he is excellent would be an understatement. His performance is bound to win admiration from cinegoers, besides fetching awards."[54] The film was released on 7 June 2002 and went on to win two National Film Awards, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi, and three Filmfare Awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Film (Critics). Despite these awards, and Devgn winning his second National Film Award for Best Actor for his performance, the film was not popular with the public.[52] Devgn went on to perform in Anees Bazmee's Deewangee. The film was partially inspired by William Diehl's novel, Primal Fear. The film was a success at the box office.[52] He jointly won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor (Critics) for his performance in Company and The Legend of Bhagat Singh, in addition to receiving his fourth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor for the former. For his performance in Deewangee, he received several awards including the Filmfare Award for Best Villain, the Screen Award for Best Villain and the Zee Cine Award for Best Villain.

In 2003, Devgn starred in Ram Gopal Verma's horror film Bhoot, opposite Urmila Matondkar. The film was appreciated critically and performed well at the box office.[55] He then starred in the action thriller Qayamat: City Under Threat with the actress debutante, Neha Dhupia. The film was a commercial success.[55] Devgn next performed in Milan Luthria's romantic film Chori Chori, opposite Rani Mukherji and Sonali Bendre. This film did not succeed at the box office.[55] Devgn's next release of the year was Prakash Jha's Gangaajal. The film was set in the time of the blinding incident in Bhagalpur, Bihar. Rediff.com said, "Ajay Devgan pulls up an ace with a part tailormade to reinforce his seething-under-the-surface angry hero image. To his credit (and the director's), he brings style and grace to a largely stereotypical, righteous protagonist. To a great extent, his presence covers up the film's patchiness in the second half."[56] Devgn received his fifth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor for his performance in the film. He then worked in Rohit Shetty's directional debut Zameen[57] and J. P. Dutta's war film LOC Kargil.[58]

In 2004, Devgn was cast with Amitabh Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai and Akshay Kumar in Rajkumar Santoshi's action thriller Khakee. The film was released on 23 January 2004. It received positive reviews and became one of the highest-grossing films of 2004.[59] In Khakee, Devgn once again played a villain. His performance as a police officer turned murderer was well received by critics. Taran Adarsh said: "Ajay Devgan adds yet another feather in his cap with a performance that could've been played only by a master performer. His confrontations with Amitabh Bachchan are exemplary."[60] He received his second nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Villain for his performance in the film. Later in 2004, Devgn appeared in Indra Kumar's Masti and Mani Ratnam's Yuva.[61][62][63]

Devgn next collaborated with Rituparno Ghosh in the relationship drama Raincoat, with Aishwaraya Rai. The film is an adaptation of O. Henry's The Gift of the Magi. Raincoat met with wide critical acclaim and won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi.[64][65] Devgn was praised for his performance. Rediff said: "Hesitation, desperation, humiliation – Ajay Devgn conveys them eloquently. His Manoj is no cool dude, but just another lower middle-class guy in misery, with whom none would like to switch place. He particularly stands out in the scenes where he cries in the bathroom, or begs Neeru not to marry someone else."[64] In 2004, Devgn was also seen in a cameo appearance in Taarzan: The Wonder Car.[66]

2005 was a less successful year for Devgn, with all of his films not proving to be successful at the box office. His movies were not financially successful. They included Insan, Blackmail, Main Aisa Hi Hoon, Tango Charlie and Shikhar. However, the films Kaal and Apaharan did well. His performance as a villain in Kaal also earned him his third nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Villain.[67]

In 2006, Devgn played Othello in Omkara, a Hindi adaptation of William Shakespeare's Othello. It was directed by Vishal Bhardwaj. The film is a tragedy of sexual jealousy set against the backdrop of the political system in Uttar Pradesh. It premiered at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival and was screened at the Cairo International Film Festival.[68][69] Omkara was well received by critics. Rediff said: "Othello is a tricky role, a leading man eclipsed by the villain. Yet the Moor is a brooding and compelling character, and Ajay Devgn does valiantly with his material. Omkara strips Othello of the racism, exchanging his black skin for surprisingly inconsequential half-Brahminism. Ajay's best bits are when restrained, and while there is a bit of a seen-that feel to his character, by the time the film is over, you realise just how unflinchingly solid he's been."[70] Taran Adarsh said: "Ajay makes a stirring and powerful interpretation of a man haunted by uncertainty about his lover's faithfulness. The serious look that Ajay carries suits him to the T. Of course, Ajay is exceptional in the film and looks every inch the character he portrays."[71]

In 2006, Devgn also starred in Rohit Shetty's Golmaal. It had two sequels Golmaal Returns and Golmaal 3. In the same year, Devgn was featured in a short documentary about the Mumbai floods of 2005 titled The Awakening.[72]

In 2007, Devgn starred in two films, director Anubhav Sinha's action thriller Cash and Aag.[73][74] Both films proved to be critically and commercially unsuccessful.

In 2008, Devgn starred in the social film Halla Bol, directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, alongside Pankaj Kapoor and Vidya Balan.[75][76] The film is based on the life of activist Safdar Hashmi, who was killed in 1989 by political rivals while performing in the street play Halla Bol.[77] The film received negative reviews and was a flop at the box office.[78] The same year, Devgn also starred in Rohit Shetty's third film Sunday.[79] He then took the lead role with Kajol in his own directorial debut film U Me Aur Hum.[80] The film performed moderately well at the box office and earned positive critical reviews for his performance as well as for his direction. Rediff said: "His character grows, discovers both shirt-buttons and subtlety, delivering an intense acting job. Speaking almost entirely in platitudes – pithy at first, profound as he goes on – this grows into an extraordinarily well-written character, replete with flaws and relatability. The way he treats his remorse, drunkenly pointing every finger at himself around a dinner table, is superbly handled, as is his guilty struggle to delineate his life experience from his professional opinion."[81] Devgn also made a cameo appearance in his brother Anil Devgan's film Haal-e-Dil. He then starred in Afzal Khan's Mehbooba.[82] Again in 2008, Devgn starred in Rohit Shetty's comedy Golmaal Returns, a sequel to the 2006 film Golmaal: Fun Unlimited about a mistrustful wife who believed her husband was unfaithful. The Indian Express said the screenplay was derivative, concluding: "There is nothing particularly new about a suspicious wife keeping tabs on her husband, and there is nothing particularly new in the way Ajay-Kareena play it."[83] Golmaal Returns was a financial hit with global revenues of 80 crore (US$9.6 million).[84]

In 2009, Devgn produced his third film, All the Best, directed by Rohit Shetty. It was a moderate commercial success.[85][86] Next, Devgn starred in Vipul Shah's London Dreams, with Salman Khan and the Tamil film star Asin. The film was not popular with the public.[85]

Commercial success (2010–present)

Devgn with Rohit Shetty at the success bash of Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai in 2010
Devgn with Kangana Ranaut at success party of Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai in 2010

In the following decade, Devgn starred in Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010), Golmaal 3 (2010), Raajneeti (2010), Singham (2011), Bol Bachchan (2012), Son of Sardaar (2012), Singham Returns (2014) and Drishyam (2015).[87][88][89] In 2010, Devgn featured in the financially successful comedy Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge? with Paresh Rawal and Konkona Sen Sharma. He then featured in Prakash Jha's political thriller Raajneeti. Raajneeti was released internationally on 4 June 2010, after some controversies regarding similarities between actual people and the characters in the film. There were also issues about the use of the national anthem in the film. The film was made with a budget of 60 crore (US$7.2 million)[90] When the film was released, it had positive reviews and was financially successful.[91] Again, in 2010, Devgn starred in Milan Luthria's Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, which was among the top-grossing films of that year.[92] Both the film and Devgn's performance were well received by the critics. Taran Adarsh said: "Ajay Devgn is splendid as Sultan. The actor had enacted a similar role in Company, but it must be said that his interpretation is so different in Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai. He adds so much depth to the character, which only goes to prove his range and versatility. This is, without a trace of doubt, Ajay's finest work so far."[93] Komal Nahta said: "Ajay Devgn is simply fantastic in the role of Sultan Mirza. So real is his performance that it looks like he was born to play this role. Right from his look to his acting including dialogue-delivery, everything is fabulous. Indeed, an award-winning performance!"[94] The film earned him his sixth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor.

Devgn then starred in Priyadarshan's action-thriller film Aakrosh. The movie explores the subject of honour killings.[95] Aakrosh received some positive reviews, but was financially unsuccessful. At the end of 2010, Devgn worked again with Rohit Shetty in Golmaal 3, a sequel to Golmaal Returns (2008). Although, like its predecessor, the film received mixed reviews, it was the most successful of the Golmaal series, earning more than 169 crore (US$20 million) and emerging a blockbuster.[96] Devgn also worked as a voice artist in Toonpur Ka Superrhero, an animated film.[97]

In 2011, Devgn performed with Emraan Hashmi in Madhur Bhandarkar's comedy Dil Toh Baccha Hai Ji. He was a narrator in Yamla Pagla Deewana and also made a cameo appearance in Ready. Devgn starred in Rohit Shetty's Singham. Taran Adarsh said: "The title means 'Lion' and Ajay is in the centre of the battle between good and evil. Ajay is well known for the lines, "aataa maajhi satakli". The embodiment of screen masculinity, Ajay enacts the central character of a righteous, hardhearted cop with flourish. He brings alive on screen a larger-than-life hero character with determined conviction, which renders you thunderstruck. One of the few actors who underplays his part admirably, he returns to the over-the-top-action genre of films with this one. In a nutshell, his performance plays a pivotal role in carrying the film to the winning post."[98] Singham earned him his seventh nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. He then starred David Dhawan's action comedy film Rascals.[99]

The following year, Devgn starred in Tezz, directed by Priyadarshan. His co-stars were Anil Kapoor, Boman Irani, Kangana Ranaut, Sameera Reddy and Zayed Khan. Devgn then starred in Rohit Shetty's film Bol Bachchan. He then starred in Son of Sardaar. In 2013, Devgn featured in the critically and commercially unsuccessful remake of Himmatwala.[100] Devgn next featured in Prakash Jha's political drama Satyagraha.[101]

In 2014, Devgn featured in Rohit Shetty's Singham Returns, a sequel to Singham. Singham Returns received mixed reviews from Indian critics.[102] Taran Adarsh of Bollywood Hungama gave it 4 stars and said: "The film is a complete mass entertainer with power-packed drama, hi-intensity dialogue and towering performances as its aces. The brand value attached to it coupled with a long weekend will help the film reap a harvest and rule the box office in days to come.".[103] Collection of over 32.09 crore (US$3.8 million) on the first day of its release in India. Domestic net of Singham Returns are 140.62 crore (US$17 million).[104] Devgn next featured in Prabhu Deva's Action Jackson which did not perform well at box office.[105]

In 2015, Devgn starred in Drishyam, directed by Nishikant Kamat. The film received positive reviews, Meena Iyer of The Times of India gave the film four out of five stars, describing it as "A suspense drama with a nail-biting finish." She praised Devgn's performances: "Ajay, who is the prey here, shines in his role of the protective father.".[106] The film was successful at the box office, by the end of its sixth week, the film had grossed about 76.48 crore (US$9.2 million) at the domestic box office.[107]

Devgn with Ileana D'Cruz during the trailer launch of their film Baadshaho in 2017

In 2016, Devgn was seen in his own production, Shivaay, which released around Diwali 2016. Shivaay is an action drama movie.[108] Shivaay opened to mixed reviews and grossed more than 146 crore (US$17 million).[109] In 2017, Devgn featured in director Milan Luthria's Baadshaho[110] and Rohit Shetty's Golmaal Again.[111] While Baadshaho was a flop, the latter emerged a blockbuster collecting 100 crores in 4 days of its release and a lifetime collection of 205 crores at the Indian box office while making a hefty 310 crores at worldwide box office.[112]

In 2018, Devgn starred in Raj Kumar Gupta's Raid where he plays the role of an honest Indian Revenue Service officer, which released to positive critical feedback on 16 March, and was a commercial success.[113] Devgn has long been working on producing Sons of Sardaar: The Battle of Saragarhi, a sequel to Son of Sardaar.[114] In August 2017, Devgn stated: "We are working on the script but it won't happen for another two years because of the scale of the project."[115] He starred in De De Pyaar De alongside Tabu and Rakul Preet Singh.[116] In early 2020, Devgn portrayed the role of 17th-century military leader Tanaji Malusare in an eponymously titled film, Tanhaji; directed by Om Raut.[117] The film was released on 10 January 2020 and went on to win three National Film Awards, including the Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Actor, both for Devgn, in addition to his eighth nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor [118] Tanhaji earned Rs 3.67 billion ($49 million) worldwide, making it the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2020.[119] Moreover, it marks Ajay Devgn's 100th film as an actor.[120]

In 2021, he starred alongside Sanjay Dutt, Sharad Kelkar, Nora Fatehi and Sonakshi Sinha in the historical film, Bhuj: The Pride of India,[121] a critical failure, and had a cameo in Sooryavanshi, reprising as DCP Bajirao Singham.[122]

Ajay Devgn and Rakul Preet Singh at the second trailer launch of Runway 34 in Delhi.

In 2022, Devgn made his OTT debut with the web series, Rudra: The Edge of Darkness, on Disney+ Hotstar.[123] The same year, he released his third directorial, Runway 34. It received positive reviews from both the critics and audience, but failed on the box office.[124] He was also seen in extended cameo appearances in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Gangubai Kathiawadi and S. S. Rajamouli's RRR, for which he received high praise.[125] Later that year, Devgn was seen as Chitragupt in Indra Kumar's Thank God, which also starred Sidharth Malhotra, which turned out to be a commercial failure.[126] Later he starred in the sequel to Drishyam, Drishyam 2, directed by Abhishek Pathak. It became a major critical and commercial success, along with becoming his second highest-grossing film of his career, after Tanhaji.[127]

In 2023, Devgn starred and directed the remake of Kaithi (2019), Bholaa, his third directorial. The film was a critical and commercial disappointment.[128] In 2024, Devgn has had three releases. The first was the horror film Shaitaan, which received favorable response from critics and emerged a huge hit at the box office.[129] His next release, Amit Sharma directorial Maidaan, saw him portray Indian football coach Syed Abdul Rahim. Although the biopic and Devgn's performance received positive reviews, the film was a financial failure.[130][131] His next release, Neeraj Pandey's Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha was also a financial flop, this time to mixed to negative reviews.[132]

Upcoming projects

He will next be seen in the fifth entry of the Cop Universe and the much awaited sequel to Singham Returns (2014), Singham Again, which is set to release for Diwali 2024.[133] Additionally, he is set to feature in Raid 2 and Son of Sardaar 2, spiritual sequels to his 2018 release Raid and 2012 release Son of Sardaar.[134][135]

Other works

Production

Ajay Devgn FFilms (ADF) is an Indian film production and distribution company established by actor Ajay Devgn in 2000. Based in Mumbai, it mainly produces and distributes Hindi films. In 2000, ADF released its first film, Raju Chacha. The film starred Devgn himself as the lead actor and his wife Kajol as the lead actress. Raju Chacha received mixed reviews but grossed Rs 209.2 millions at the box office.[136]

In 2008, Devgn co-produced the drama U Me Aur Hum, which marked his directorial debut.[137] Devgn also played the lead role in the film, sharing the screen again with Kajol. The film was written by Devgn himself and three other writers. Critical reception was generally positive, with Taran Adarsh giving the film 4 out of 5 stars and describing it as "A well-made, absorbing love story that's high on emotional quotient".[138]

In 2009, Devgn released and acted in his home production All the Best: Fun Begins, which was directed by Rohit Shetty and also starring, Sanjay Dutt, Fardeen Khan, Bipasha Basu and Mugdha Godse.[139] The film was released on 16 October 2009 and received positive response from critics. It was rated a hit in India, and is the twelfth highest grossing Bollywood film of 2009.[140]

In 2014, ADF produced Singham Returns starring Devgn and Kareena Kapoor. In 2016 Devgn produced and starred in Shivaay which is to be the most expensive film of his production.[141]

In late December 2017, ADF collaborated with Fox Star Studios to produce Total Dhamaal starring Devgn, Riteish Deshmukh, Arshad Warsi, Javed Jaffrey, Madhuri Dixit, and Anil Kapoor.[142][143]

In 2018, Ajay Devgn released his first Marathi production Aapla Manus.[144] The movie was in Marathi language. It was directed by Satish Rajwade and starred Nana Patekar, Iravati Harshe, and Sumeet Raghavan. The film was produced by Ajay Devgn, Nana Patekar, Abhinav Shuklaa, Manish Mishra, & Rohit Choudhary and released on 9 February 2018.[145] The story was a dramatic thriller and written by Vivek Bele. The film was distributed by Viacom 18 Motion Pictures.[146]

NY VFXWAALA

In October 2015, Devgn established a visual effects company, NY VFXWAALA, after his children. It has been involved with many major films, such as Prem Ratan Dhan Payo, Tamasha, Bajirao Mastani, Mersal, Dilwale, Force 2, and Simmba.[147] The company won the Best Special Effects award at the 64th National Film Awards for the film Shivaay (2016).[148]

In the media

Devgn in 2012

Ashwini Deshmukh of Filmfare termed Devgn a "private person" who is self-confessedly uncomfortable around people and said, "Three decades in the industry and Ajay Devgn continues to enjoy the trust of filmmakers and the loyalty of his fans."[149] Ankur Pathak of GQ noted, "Devgn has shown remarkable resilience as a bankable star who has never had to rely on a "comeback" film since he never really goes off-screen."[150] Sandeep Unnithan of India Today termed him a "versatile actor" and said, "Devgn is a darling of his directors."[151] Rediff.com noted the actor's change from "lanky star son" to "back-to-back hits churner". It further credited him for popularising the "intense, brooding hero" looks.[152]

Devgn is among the most popular and highest paid celebrities in India.[153][154][155] He has frequently featured in the Forbes India's Celebrity 100 list since 2012. He peaked at the 10th position in 2018 with an estimated annual income of 745 million (US$8.9 million).[156] In 2019, he was placed 12th, with an estimated annual income of 940 million (US$11 million).[157] Devgn was placed 7th in Rediff.com's list of Top 10 Actors of 2000–2010.[158] In Rediff.com "Top Bollywood Actors" list, Devgn ranked 1st in 2002.[159] He subsequently ranked 4th in 2004, 10th in 2006 and 2nd in 2019.[160][161][162] In Eastern Eye's Sexiest Asian Men list of 2011, Devgn was placed 29th.[163]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b "Ajay Devgn says he's been put behind bars twice, reveals why he changed his real name". Deccan Chronicle. 14 March 2018. Retrieved 14 December 2018.
  2. ^ "Deeply humbled, elated to receive Padma Shri: Ajay Devgn". The Times of India. 27 January 2017. Retrieved 18 March 2022.
  3. ^ "Box Office 1991". Box Office India. Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Retrieved 10 January 2007.
  4. ^ Sampurn Wire. "Ajay Devgan a versatility expert". Thaindian.com. Archived from the original on 22 February 2014. Retrieved 7 June 2010.
  5. ^ "Ajay Devgn Filmography". boxofficeindia.com. Retrieved 23 November 2020.
  6. ^ "68th National Film Awards | Soorarai Pottru wins Best Film award". The Hindu. 22 July 2022.
  7. ^ Devgan, Ajay. "Caste list in Vishwakarma". Pm Vishwakarma.{{cite news}}: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
  8. ^ ""Ajay Devgn: I am a reserved person."". Rediff.com 31 December 2004. Accessed 30 July 2011.
  9. ^ Kapoor, Diksha (2 April 2019). "PTC Punjabi- Live Gurbani | World's No.1 Punjabi Entertainment Channel". PTC Punjabi. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  10. ^ "Ajay Devgn: Lesser known facts". The Times of India. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  11. ^ "When Ajay Devgn left Karisma Kapoor and married Kajol". Daily Bhaskar. Retrieved 1 May 2016.
  12. ^ ""After motherhood, Kajol returns in a role designed to unsettle filmdom's reigning deities."". Archived from the original on 5 October 2013. Retrieved 9 December 2012. India Today 22 May 2006.
  13. ^ ""The Happiest marriages in Bollywood."". Rediff.com 23 March 2011. Accessed 4 June 2012.
  14. ^ a b ""Bonding of the bubbly belle & the brooder."". Tribune India.com 27 April 2003. Accessed 3 June 2010.
  15. ^ Srnivasan V. ""Quietly were they wed."". Rediff.com 25 February 1999. Accessed 4 June 2012.
  16. ^ Bhattacharya R. ""Kajol, Ajay the perfect couple."". Archived from the original on 25 January 2013. Hindustan Times.com 28 February 2010. Accessed 4 June 2012.
  17. ^ ""Kajol delivers baby girl."". Archived from the original on 2 October 2013. Times of India.com 20 April 2003 Accessed 4 June 2012.
  18. ^ ""Kajol, Ajay welcome baby boy."". Archived from the original on 2 October 2013. Times of India 13 September 2010. Accessed 4 June 2002.
  19. ^ ""It takes two tango bonding of the bubbly belle & the brooder."". Archived from the original on 7 May 2003. Retrieved 25 August 2010. The Sunday Tribune.com, India 27 April 2003. Accessed 27 April 2003.
  20. ^ ""Ajay Devgan's life."". Archived from the original on 18 August 2012. Retrieved 13 September 2012. Sawfnews.com
  21. ^ J, Upala (26 August 2009). "Ajay Devgan drops A off his name". FilmiBeat. Retrieved 14 December 2018.
  22. ^ "Insight Into Religious Views". – Account of Religious Practices
  23. ^ "Reliable Account of Personal Life". – Religious Information
  24. ^ Ghose D. ""Happy Birthday, Ajay Devgan; Golmaal Returns."". Archived from the original on 14 June 2021. Retrieved 9 April 2013. Bollywoodmantra.com 1 April 2012.
  25. ^ ""Ajay devgn gets birthday surprise on Rock 'n Roll sets."". Archived from the original on 15 July 2012. Retrieved 25 August 2010. Sawfnews.com Accessed 1 April 2008.
  26. ^ Sinha S. ""xtra-marital affairs happen: Ajay Devgn."". The Times of India. November 2009. The Times of India 1 November 2009. Accessed 21 October 2010.
  27. ^ ""Ajay Devgn buys a personal aircraft."". The Economic Times. The Times of India.com 10 October 2010.
  28. ^ ""Box Office 1991.'". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007
  29. ^ Wire S. ""Ajay Devgan a versatility expert."". Archived from the original on 22 February 2014. Retrieved 20 October 2012. Thaindian.com Accessed 7 June 2010.
  30. ^ a b ""Box Office 1992."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2009.
  31. ^ a b ""Box Office 1993."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com 1993
  32. ^ "Shaktimaan - Movie - Box Office India". Box Office India. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  33. ^ "Dhanwaan Movie: Review | Release Date (1993) | Songs | Music | Images | Official Trailers | Videos | Photos | News". Bollywood Hungama. 10 December 1993. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  34. ^ "Bedardi Movie: Showtimes, Review, Trailer, Posters, News & Videos | eTimes". The Times of India. 12 November 1993. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  35. ^ a b ""Box Office 1994."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com.
  36. ^ "Vijaypath (1994)".
  37. ^ a b c d ""Box Office 1995."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com.
  38. ^ a b ""Box Office 1996."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com.
  39. ^ a b ""Box Office 1997."". Archived from the original on 24 January 2012. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.
  40. ^ ""Box Office 1997."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com.
  41. ^ a b "Box Office 1998". Box Office India. Archived from the original on 21 January 2011.
  42. ^ "Screen Awards Best Actor: History". Indicine.com. 20 January 2012.
  43. ^ "Rediff on the NeT, Movies: The review of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam". Rediff.com. 17 June 1999.
  44. ^ a b c "Box Office 1999". Box Office India. Archived from the original on 21 January 2011.
  45. ^ "Gair". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  46. ^ Chopra, Anupama (13 December 1999). "Movie review: Thakshak, starring Ajay Devgan, Tabu, Rahul Bose". India Today. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  47. ^ a b ""Box Office 2000."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.
  48. ^ a b ""Box Office 2001."". Archived from the original on 17 January 2012. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.
  49. ^ "Tera Mera Saath Rahen - Movie - Box Office India". Box Office India. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  50. ^ Bhattacharya, Priyanka (15 November 2001). "rediff.com, Movies:The film review of Tera Mera Saath Rahen". Rediff.com. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  51. ^ Adarsh T. ""Company (2002)."". Bollywood Hungama. Archived from the original on 18 December 2012. Bollywood Hungama.com.
  52. ^ a b c d ""Box Office 2002."". Archived from the original on 17 January 2012. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.
  53. ^ Jindani A. ""Ajay to play coveted shaheed bhagat singh role."". Archived from the original on 16 July 2011. Retrieved 9 September 2010. Smashits.com.
  54. ^ Adarsh T. ""The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002)."". Bollywood Hungama. Archived from the original on 2 November 2013. Bollywood Hungama.com.
  55. ^ a b c ""Box Office 2003."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.
  56. ^ ""Another ace for Ajay!"". Rediff.com Accessed 29 August 2003.
  57. ^ Verma S. ""Directed by Rohit Shetty!"". Rediff.com 25 September 2003.
  58. ^ "LOC KARGIL (2003)". British Film Institute. Archived from the original on 19 August 2019. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  59. ^ ""Box Office 2004."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India.com.
  60. ^ Adarsh T. ""Khakee (2004)."". Bollywood Hungama. Archived from the original on 31 August 2012. Bollywood Hungama.com.
  61. ^ ""Yuva (2004)"". IMDb.. 22 May 2004.
  62. ^ "Bollywood-inspired IITians eyeing polls.'". Archived from the original on 18 October 2012. The Times of India.com 18 January 2007 Accessed 30 July 2011.
  63. ^ ""Yuva."". Rotten Tomatoes. Rotten Tomatoes.com. Accessed 30 July 2011.
  64. ^ a b ""Rain coat is simply beautiful."". Archived from the original on 6 April 2009. Retrieved 17 February 2013. Rediff.com Accessed 9 March 2009.
  65. ^ Verma, Sukanya. ""Rain coat is simply beautiful."". Rediff. Archived from the original on 6 April 2009. Archive.org 6 April 2009.
  66. ^ Adarsh, Taran (6 August 2004). "Taarzan – The Wonder Car Review 2.5/5 | Taarzan – The Wonder Car Movie Review | Taarzan – The Wonder Car 2004 Public Review | Film Review". Bollywood Hungama. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  67. ^ ""Box Office 2005."". Archived from the original on 8 July 2011. Archive.org 8 July 2011. Accessed 11 March 2013.
  68. ^ Gajjar M. ""Omkara."". BBC.co.uk May 2006. Accessed 19 May 2009
  69. ^ Roy, A. ""Omkara puzzle here, prize there."". Archived from the original on 24 October 2012. Retrieved 17 February 2013. The Telegraph, Calcutta. 6 December 2006. Accessed 8 July 2010.
  70. ^ ""Why Omkara blew my mind."". Rediff.com 2 August 2006.
  71. ^ Adarsh T. ""Omkara"". Bollywood Hungama. Archived from the original on 21 October 2012. Bollywood Hungama.
  72. ^ ""The Awakening (2006)"". IMDb.. 28 July 2006.
  73. ^ "Cash". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  74. ^ "Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  75. ^ ""Box Office 2008."". Archived from the original on 2 January 2010. Retrieved 30 June 2011. Box Office India 2008.
  76. ^ ""Box Office 2008."". Archived from the original on 8 July 2011. Box Office India.com Archived 8 July 2011. Accessed 11 March 2013.
  77. ^ ""Halla Bol based on Safdar Hashmi: Rajkumar Santoshi."". Archived from the original on 21 September 2013. Retrieved 17 February 2013. Hindustan Times 12 July 2007 Accessed 20 November 2012.
  78. ^ Mohamed K. ""Halla Bol."". Archived from the original on 8 September 2013. Retrieved 17 February 2013. Hindustan Times 11 January 2008 Accessed 9 January 2012.
  79. ^ "Sunday - Movie - Box Office India". Box Office India. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  80. ^ ""U, Me Aur Hum, straight from Ajay's heart."". DNA India.com 1 April 2008 Accessed 1 June 2012.
  81. ^ ""Ajay Devgan does well in U Me Aur Hum."". Rediff.com 11 April 2008.
  82. ^ "Mehbooba". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  83. ^ Gupta S. ""Golmaal Returns"". 31 October 2008. India Express.com 31 October 2008. Accessed 13 November 2008.
  84. ^ "Golmaal Returns - Movie - Box Office India". boxofficeindia.com. Retrieved 27 October 2020.
  85. ^ a b "Archived copy". Archived from the original on 21 September 2013. Retrieved 30 June 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link) Box Office India.com
  86. ^ ""Box Office 2009."". Archived from the original on 8 July 2011. Archive.org Archived 8 July 2011. Accessed 11 March 2013.
  87. ^ ""Readers' Picks: Top Bollywood Actors."". Rediff.com 17 August 2006.
  88. ^ ""The Powerlist: Top Bollywood Actors."". Rediff.com 8 August 2006.
  89. ^ ""Box Office 2000s Decade in Review – Top Actors, Actresses and Directors: Final Tallies and Standings."". Archived from the original on 9 December 2012. Ibosnetwork.com 19 January 2010.
  90. ^ Kotwani| H. ""Can Raajneeti recover its Rs 60 crore investment?"". Archived from the original on 8 June 2010. Retrieved 16 February 2013. Hindustan Times 4 June 2010. Accessed 21 June 2010.
  91. ^ ""Box Office 2010."". Archived from the original on 21 January 2011. Box Office India at Web Archive.com . Accessed 25 August 2011.
  92. ^ ""Lifetime Grossers 2010–2019."". Archived from the original on 14 October 2013. Box Office India at Web Archive.org. 2013.
  93. ^ ""Movie Review: Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai review: An outstanding cinematic experience!"". Sify. Archived from the original on 21 January 2014. Sify.com.
  94. ^ Nahta K. ""Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai."". 30 July 2010. Koimoi.com 30 July 2010.
  95. ^ Sharma, Sanjukta (15 October 2010). "Aakrosh | The burning of Jhanjhad". Mint. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
  96. ^ Bhattacharya R. ""Golmaal 3: This year's Diwali cracker."". Archived from the original on 9 August 2013. Retrieved 16 February 2013. Hindustan Times.com 12 November 2010. Accessed 28 November 2010
  97. ^ "Toonpur Ka Super Hero". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  98. ^ Adarsh T. ""Singham."". Bollywood Hungama. Archived from the original on 3 April 2012. Bollywood Hungama.
  99. ^ ""Sanjay Dutt starts Rascals tomorrow."". Bollywood Hungama. 15 March 2016. Bollywood Hungama.com 28 October 2010.
  100. ^ ""Ajay Devgan promised 'Himmatwala' will be a 100 crore hit."". Digital Spy. 15 January 2013. Digital Spy.com 15 January 2013.
  101. ^ ""Ajay Devgn starts shooting for Prakash Jha's 'Satyagraha'."". Archived from the original on 15 February 2013. Indiaglitz.com 13 February 2013.
  102. ^ "'Singham Returns' Movie Reviews: Typical Rohit Shetty's Film". 15 August 2014. International Business Times. 15 August 2014.
  103. ^ Adarsh, Taran (15 August 2014). "Singham Returns". Bollywood Hungamam. Archived from the original on 11 May 2014. Retrieved 15 August 2014.
  104. ^ "Singham Returns". Bollywood Hungama. Archived from the original on 11 May 2014.
  105. ^ "'Action Jackson' review: The film is an orgy of bloody fight scenes"..IBN live. Rajeev Masand. 5 December 2014.
  106. ^ Meena Iyer. "Drishyam Movie Review". The Times of India.
  107. ^ "Ajay Devgn's 'Drishyam' completes 50 days at box office". The Indian Express. 19 September 2015. Retrieved 23 July 2022.
  108. ^ "Ajay Devgn celebrates 5 years of Shivaay with throwback video. Watch". India Today. 28 October 2021. Retrieved 23 July 2022.
  109. ^ "Box Office: Worldwide Collections and Day wise breakup of Shivaay". Bollywood Hungama. 29 October 2016. Retrieved 5 November 2016.
  110. ^ "Here's How the Baadshaho Actor Ajay Devgn is So Fit and Fabulous At 48". NDTV Food. 22 August 2017. Retrieved 23 July 2022.
  111. ^ "Golmaal Again gets third-highest opening weekend box office collection for 2017; Baahubali 2, Raees still lead". Firstpost. 24 October 2017.
  112. ^ "Golmaal Again - Movie - Box Office India".
  113. ^ "Raid movie review roundup: Ajay Devgn starrer is realistic, say critics, celebs". International Business Times. 16 March 2018. Retrieved 16 March 2018.
  114. ^ "Ajay Devgn shares Sons of Sardaar: The Battle of Saragarhi first look; Diwali 2017 release planned". Firstpost. 29 July 2016.
  115. ^ "Ajay Devgn: Saragarhi is set to happen but in the next three or four years". Mumbai Mirror.
  116. ^ "Rakul Preet to star alongside Ajay Devgn and Tabu in this rom-com". Bollywood Hungama. 16 January 2018. Retrieved 16 January 2018.
  117. ^ "Revealed! Ajay Devgn's ferociously intriguing look from Taanaji – The Unsung Warrior". www.timesnownews.com. 2 January 2019. Retrieved 2 January 2019.
  118. ^ "68th National Film Awards: 'Soorarai Pottru', 'Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior' win top honours". The Hindu. PTI. 22 July 2022. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 23 July 2022.
  119. ^ "Ajay Devgn's 'Tanhaji - The Unsung Warrior' declared biggest Hindi box office hit of the last two years". The Times of India. 30 December 2021. Retrieved 25 July 2022.
  120. ^ "Ajay Devgn: 100th film or first, anxiety remains the same". The Times of India. 4 December 2019. Retrieved 25 July 2022.
  121. ^ "'Bhuj: The Pride of India': Sanjay Dutt, Sonakshi Sinha, Rana Daggubati, Parineeti Chopra and Ammy Virk join the Ajay Devgn starrer". The Times of India. 20 March 2019. Retrieved 23 March 2019.
  122. ^ "Akshay Kumar's Sooryavanshi to Have an Extended Climax with Ajay Devgn and Ranveer Singh". News18.
  123. ^ "Ajay Devgn on OTT Debut with Rudra: Nobody Wants to Watch a Nice Guy, Controversies Go On and On". News18.
  124. ^ "Runway 34 Movie Review: Ajay Devgn's aviation drama lands well within the runway", The Times of India, retrieved 23 July 2022
  125. ^ "Ajay Devgn has Watched Neither RRR Nor Gangubai Kathiawadi. Here's Why". News18. 30 April 2022. Retrieved 23 July 2022.
  126. ^ "Thank God (2022)".
  127. ^ "Drishyam 2 Box Office Day 23 (Early Trends): Enters Into 200 Crore Club In Style, Hits 3rd Double Century For Ajay Devgn". koimoi.com. 10 December 2022. Retrieved 11 December 2022.
  128. ^ "Bholaa Final Collections - India And Overseas". 1 June 2023.
  129. ^ "A Decent First Quarter - Shaitaan Leads Classifications".
  130. ^ Bollywood Hungama News Network (9 April 2024). "Maidaan Movie Review". Bollywood Hungama.
  131. ^ "Maidaan Box Office". Bollywood Hungama. 25 April 2024. Retrieved 25 April 2024.
  132. ^ Kaushal, Sweta (9 August 2024). "India Box Office: 'Ulajh', 'Auron Mein Kaha Dum Tha' Score Low". Forbes.
  133. ^ "Singham Again To Release On Diwali: "Rumour Mills Are Working Overtime"". NDTV. 3 September 2024.
  134. ^ "Raid 2 Release Date Postponed? Ajay Devgn Starrer Set To Hit Big Screens On THIS Date". Times Now. 8 August 2024.
  135. ^ "Sanjay Dutt set to join Ajay Devgn in Punjab for 'Son of Sardaar 2': Report". Times of India. 2 September 2024.
  136. ^ "Raju Chacha - Movie - Box Office India". Box Office India. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  137. ^ Basu, Nilanjana (7 November 2020). "Ajay Devgn To Direct Amitabh Bachchan In New Film Titled Mayday. Details Here". NDTV. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  138. ^ Adarsh, Taran (11 April 2008). "U Me Aur Hum Review 4/5 | U Me Aur Hum Movie Review | U Me Aur Hum 2008 Public Review | Film Review". Bollywood Hungama. Retrieved 19 December 2022.
  139. ^ "All The Best-Fun Begins – preview, trailer, cast and crew, release date on moviewood.net". www.moviewood.net. Archived from the original on 23 October 2013. Retrieved 28 March 2019.
  140. ^ "Top India Total Nett Gross 2009 - - Box Office India". Box Office India. Retrieved 19 December 2022.
  141. ^ "Shivay "to be Ajay Devgn Productions' most expensive film". The Times of India.
  142. ^ Iyer, Meena (31 December 2017). "Ajay Devgn to co-produce Total Dhamaal". DNA India.
  143. ^ "| PINKVILLA". www.pinkvilla.com. Archived from the original on 3 May 2022. Retrieved 20 September 2020.
  144. ^ "Ajay Devgn's Maiden Marathi Production Titled Aapla Manus". News18. IANS. 25 December 2017. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  145. ^ "Aapla Manus". Rotten Tomatoes. Retrieved 30 December 2022.
  146. ^ "Aapla Manus Is A Family Drama With A Pinch Of Thriller". MUMBAI LIVE. 9 February 2018.
  147. ^ Sarkar, Prarthna (12 May 2016). "Visual effects: Here's how Ajay Devgn is the common link between 'Bajirao Mastani' and 'Dilwale' [VIDEOS]". International Business Times, India Edition.
  148. ^ Sharma, Priyanka (7 April 2017). "Ajay Devgn on Shivaay's National Award win: Not surprised, it is well deserved". The Indian Express. Retrieved 16 May 2018.
  149. ^ Ashwini Deshmukh. "Ajay Devgn on his film journey as he completes 30 years in Bollywood this year". Filmfare. Retrieved 20 August 2020.
  150. ^ Ankur Pathak (17 February 2023). "Ajay Devgn: Star for all seasons". GQ India - Entertainment. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
  151. ^ Sandeep Unnithan. "How Ajay Devgn rode to industry superstardom". India Today. Retrieved 27 November 2021.
  152. ^ Rediff Movies. "Birthday Special: Ajay Devgn's Top Ten Films". Rediff.com. Retrieved 26 December 2020.
  153. ^ "IMBD: The top 12 Highest paid Indian actors in 2022; see list". The Times of India. Retrieved 29 November 2022.
  154. ^ "From Ajay Devgn to Pankaj Tripathi, 10 highest paid actors on OTT in India". GQ India. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  155. ^ "Exclusive - These are Bollywood's 16 highest paid actors". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 19 December 2015.
  156. ^ "2018 Celebrity 100". Forbes India. Archived from the original on 19 December 2019. Retrieved 20 December 2017.
  157. ^ "2019 Celebrity 100". Forbes India. Archived from the original on 19 December 2019. Retrieved 20 December 2018.
  158. ^ "How Bollywood's top actors have fared last decade". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 4 January 2017. Retrieved 12 September 2017.
  159. ^ "Top Bollywood Actors 2002". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 4 January 2017. Retrieved 15 November 2019.
  160. ^ "Top Bollywood Actors of 2004". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 4 January 2017. Retrieved 26 October 2018.
  161. ^ "Readers' Picks: Top Bollywood Actors". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 4 January 2017. Retrieved 13 February 2018.
  162. ^ "Bollywood's TOP Actors of 2019, so far". Rediff.com. Archived from the original on 4 January 2017. Retrieved 25 August 2020.
  163. ^ "Hrithik Roshan tops Sexiest Asian Men 2011 list". Rediff.com. 2 December 2011. Archived from the original on 31 December 2016. Retrieved 3 January 2017.

Bibliography