Ajay Devgn
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Vishal Veeru Devgan (born 2 April 1969), known professionally as Ajay Devgn, is an Indian actor, film director, and producer. 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Devgn emerged a star with his film debut, the action romance Phool Aur Kaante (1991).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He had further action film roles in Vijaypath (1994), Dilwale (1994), Jaan (1996), Major Saab (1998) and Kachche Dhaage (1999) and romantic roles in Ishq (1997), Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha (1998) and Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999).<ref name=bo25y>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Devgn's dramatic performance in Zakhm (1998) earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor.<ref name="46thaward">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In the 2000s, Devgn saw limited commercial success, but gained critical acclaim for the films Company (2002), The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002), Gangaajal (2003), Khakee (2004), Raincoat (2004), and Omkara (2006).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> For portraying Bhagat Singh in The Legend of Bhagat Singh, he received his second National Film Award for Best Actor and the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actor.<ref name="National Awards">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He had a commercial resurgence in 2010 with Golmaal 3, Raajneeti, and Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, and had further success in Singham (2011), Bol Bachchan (2012), Son of Sardaar (2012), Singham Returns (2014), Drishyam (2015), Golmaal Again (2017), Raid (2018) and Total Dhamaal (2019).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> His highest-grossing releases came with Tanhaji (2020), Drishyam 2 (2022) and Singham Again (2024).<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> For portraying the title role in Tanhaji, he won his third National Film Award for Best Actor.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Devgn owns a production company Ajay Devgn FFilms, which was established in 1999.<ref>https://devgnfilms.com/</ref> He has frequently collaborated with filmmaker Rohit Shetty and is married to actress Kajol, with whom he has two children.
Early life and backgroundEdit
Devgn was born Vishal Veeru Devgan on 2 April 1969 to a Punjabi Hindu family originally from Amritsar, Punjab.<ref name="ajy">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com 31 December 2004. Accessed 30 July 2011.</ref> 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.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Personal lifeEdit
Relationships and familyEdit
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Devgn began a relationship with the actress Karisma Kapoor while filming Jigar (1992), however, the couple ended their relationship in 1995.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> That same year, Devgn's relationship with the actress, Kajol, began whilst they were co-starring in Gundaraj (1995).<ref name="India Today (2006)">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} India Today 22 May 2006.</ref> The media called them "an unlikely pair" due to their contrasting personalities.<ref name="Rediff (2011)">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com 23 March 2011. Accessed 4 June 2012.</ref><ref name="Tribune India (2003)">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Tribune India.com 27 April 2003. Accessed 3 June 2010.</ref> On 24 February 1999, the couple married in a traditional Maharashtrian Hindu ceremony at the Devgan home.<ref name="Srnivasan (1999)">Srnivasan V. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com 25 February 1999. Accessed 4 June 2012.</ref><ref name="Bhattacharya (2010)">Bhattacharya R. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Hindustan Times.com 28 February 2010. Accessed 4 June 2012.</ref> The couple has two children. Their daughter, Nysa, was born 20 April 2003<ref name="Times of India (2003)">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Times of India.com 20 April 2003 Accessed 4 June 2012.</ref> and their son, Yug, was born 13 September 2010.<ref name="Times of India (2010)">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Times of India 13 September 2010. Accessed 4 June 2002.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} The Sunday Tribune.com, India 27 April 2003. Accessed 27 April 2003.</ref><ref name="Tribune India (2003)" /> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Sawfnews.com</ref>
ReligionEdit
He is a practicing Shaiva Hindu who prominently wears a rudraksha which, along with other religious themes, features in his films.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} – Account of Religious Practices</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} – Religious Information</ref><ref>Ghose D. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywoodmantra.com 1 April 2012.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Sawfnews.com Accessed 1 April 2008.</ref><ref>Sinha S. Template:Cite news The Times of India 1 November 2009. Accessed 21 October 2010.</ref>
He visits Ajmer Sharif, a Sufi shrine, every year, and says that he also keeps the Ramadan fast as a sign of secularism and respect when he's with a Muslim artist or crew staff during a film shooting.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Name changeEdit
In August 2009, Devgn changed the spelling of his surname Devgan to Devgn, at the request of his family.Template:Citation needed
Private jetEdit
Devgn was the first Bollywood personality to own a private jet for transport to shooting locations, to promotions and for personal trips.<ref>Template:Cite news The Times of India.com 10 October 2010.</ref>
CareerEdit
Rise to prominence (1991–1999)Edit
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.<ref name="Vishal" /> He began his professional career alongside Madhoo in the action romance Phool Aur Kaante, which earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Male Debut.<ref name="Box Office (1991)">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007</ref><ref>Wire S. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Thaindian.com Accessed 7 June 2010.</ref><ref name="1992 BO">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2009.</ref> 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 Template:INRConvert at the box office.<ref name="1992 BO" />
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.<ref name="ReferenceC">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com 1993</ref> Devgn then worked with Deepak Bahry, who directed the action film Ek Hi Raasta,<ref name="ReferenceC" /> and with Deepak Pawar, who directed Platform. Other releases that year were Shaktiman, Dhanwan and Bedardi.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
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.<ref name="boxofficeindia1">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com.</ref> 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.<ref name="boxofficeindia1" /> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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.<ref name="boxofficeindia2">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com.</ref> Devgn and Kajol then appeared in Gundaraj which did not perform well at the box office.<ref name="boxofficeindia2" /> His next release was Haqeeqat<ref name="boxofficeindia2" /> co-starring with Tabu. This film was the eleventh-highest-grossing film of the year.<ref name="boxofficeindia2" />
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,<ref name="boxofficeindia3">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com.</ref> with Twinkle Khanna. He then starred in Harry Baweja's film Diljale, where he played a terrorist character called Shaka.<ref name="boxofficeindia3" />
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.<ref name="1997 BO" /> The film grossed Template:INRConvert and emerged as the fourth-highest-grossing film of the year.<ref name="1997 BO">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com.</ref>
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.<ref name="boxofficeindia4">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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 Template:INRConvert.<ref name="boxofficeindia4" /> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name="boxofficeindia5">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name="boxofficeindia5" /> He then performed in the successful movie Hogi Pyaar Ki Jeet, a romantic comedy,<ref name="boxofficeindia5" /> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
Career fluctuations and critical acclaim (2000–2009)Edit
In 2000, Devgn performed in Harry Baweja's Deewane. The film did not do well at the box office.<ref name="2000 BO">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.</ref> In the same year, Devgn starred in his first home production; Raju Chacha, with Kajol. The film was moderately successful.<ref name="2000 BO" />
In 2001, Devgn starred in another moderately successful film; Yeh Raaste Hain Pyaar Ke with Madhuri Dixit and Preity Zinta.<ref name="BO 2001">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.</ref> 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.<ref name="BO 2001" /> Mahesh Manjrekar's Tera Mera Saath Rahen followed.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
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."<ref>Adarsh T. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywood Hungama.com.</ref><ref name="2002 BO">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.</ref> Devgn's next release was David Dhawan's comedy Hum Kisise Kum Nahin, with Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt and Aishwarya Rai.<ref name="2002 BO" /> The same year, he played the role of Bhagat Singh, in Rajkumar Santoshi's biopic The Legend of Bhagat Singh.<ref name="smashits">Jindani A. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Smashits.com.</ref> 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."<ref>Adarsh T. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywood Hungama.com.</ref> 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.<ref name="2002 BO" /> 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.<ref name="2002 BO" /> 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.<ref name="2003 BO">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Accessed 10 January 2007.</ref> He then starred in the action thriller Qayamat: City Under Threat with the actress debutante, Neha Dhupia. The film was a commercial success.<ref name="2003 BO" /> 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.<ref name="2003 BO" /> 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com Accessed 29 August 2003.</ref> 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<ref>Verma S. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com 25 September 2003.</ref> and J. P. Dutta's war film LOC Kargil.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com.</ref> 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."<ref>Adarsh T. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywood Hungama.com.</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}. 22 May 2004.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} The Times of India.com 18 January 2007 Accessed 30 July 2011.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rotten Tomatoes.com. Accessed 30 July 2011.</ref>
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.<ref name="Rediff 2004">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com Accessed 9 March 2009.</ref><ref>Template:Cite news Archive.org 6 April 2009.</ref> 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."<ref name="Rediff 2004" /> In 2004, Devgn was also seen in a cameo appearance in Taarzan: The Wonder Car.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Archive.org 8 July 2011. Accessed 11 March 2013.</ref>
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.<ref name="Omkara">Gajjar M. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} BBC.co.uk May 2006. Accessed 19 May 2009</ref><ref>Roy, A. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} The Telegraph, Calcutta. 6 December 2006. Accessed 8 July 2010.</ref> 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com 2 August 2006.</ref> 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."<ref>Adarsh T. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywood Hungama.</ref>
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}. 28 July 2006.</ref>
In 2007, Devgn starred in two films, director Anubhav Sinha's action thriller Cash and Aag.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref name="boxofficeindia.com">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India 2008.</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com Archived 8 July 2011. Accessed 11 March 2013.</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Hindustan Times 12 July 2007 Accessed 20 November 2012.</ref> The film received negative reviews and was a flop at the box office.<ref>Mohamed K. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Hindustan Times 11 January 2008 Accessed 9 January 2012.</ref> The same year, Devgn also starred in Rohit Shetty's third film Sunday.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He then took the lead role with Kajol in his own directorial debut film U Me Aur Hum.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} DNA India.com 1 April 2008 Accessed 1 June 2012.</ref> 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Rediff.com 11 April 2008.</ref> Devgn also made a cameo appearance in his brother Anil Devgan's film Haal-e-Dil. He then starred in Afzal Khan's Mehbooba.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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."<ref>Gupta S. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} India Express.com 31 October 2008. Accessed 13 November 2008.</ref> Golmaal Returns was a financial hit with global revenues of Template:INRConvert.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2009, Devgn produced his third film, All the Best, directed by Rohit Shetty. It was a moderate commercial success.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India.com</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Archive.org Archived 8 July 2011. Accessed 11 March 2013.</ref> 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.<ref name="ReferenceA" />
Prolonged success (2010–present)Edit
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 Template:INRConvert<ref>Kotwani| H. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Hindustan Times 4 June 2010. Accessed 21 June 2010.</ref> At release, it received positive reviews and emerged a superhit at the box office.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Box Office India at Web Archive.org. 2013.</ref> 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Sify.com.</ref> 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!"<ref>Nahta K. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Koimoi.com 30 July 2010.</ref> 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.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> 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 Template:INRConvert and emerging a blockbuster.<ref>Bhattacharya R. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Hindustan Times.com 12 November 2010. Accessed 28 November 2010</ref> Devgn also worked as a voice artist in Toonpur Ka Superrhero, an animated film.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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."<ref>Adarsh T. {{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywood Hungama.</ref> Singham earned him his seventh nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actor. He then starred David Dhawan's action comedy film Rascals.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Bollywood Hungama.com 28 October 2010.</ref>
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Digital Spy.com 15 January 2013.</ref> Devgn next featured in Prakash Jha's political drama Satyagraha.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }} Indiaglitz.com 13 February 2013.</ref>
In 2014, Devgn featured in Rohit Shetty's Singham Returns, a sequel to Singham. Singham Returns received mixed reviews from Indian critics.<ref name="Reviews">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.".<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}Template:Rating</ref> Collection of over Template:INRConvert on the first day of its release in India. Domestic net of Singham Returns are Template:INRConvert.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Devgn next featured in Prabhu Deva's Action Jackson which did not perform well at box office.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}Template:Dead link.IBN live. Rajeev Masand. 5 December 2014. Template:Rating</ref>
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.".<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> The film was successful at the box office, by the end of its sixth week, the film had grossed about Template:INRConvert at the domestic box office.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2016, Devgn was seen in his own production, Shivaay, which released around Diwali 2016. Shivaay is an action drama movie.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Shivaay opened to mixed reviews and grossed more than Template:INRConvert.<ref name="BO">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In 2017, Devgn featured in director Milan Luthria's Baadshaho<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> and Rohit Shetty's Golmaal Again.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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.<ref name="roundup">{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Devgn has long been working on producing Sons of Sardaar: The Battle of Saragarhi, a sequel to Son of Sardaar.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He starred in De De Pyaar De alongside Tabu and Rakul Preet Singh.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In early 2020, Devgn portrayed the role of 17th-century military leader Tanaji Malusare in an eponymously titled film, Tanhaji; directed by Om Raut.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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 <ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Tanhaji earned Rs 3.67 billion ($49 million) worldwide, making it the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2020.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Moreover, it marks Ajay Devgn's 100th film as an actor.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
In 2021, he starred alongside Sanjay Dutt, Sharad Kelkar, Nora Fatehi and Sonakshi Sinha in the historical film, Bhuj: The Pride of India,<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> a critical failure, and had a cameo in Sooryavanshi, reprising as DCP Bajirao Singham.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
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In 2022, Devgn made his OTT debut with the web series, Rudra: The Edge of Darkness, on Disney+ Hotstar.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> 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.<ref>Template:Citation</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
The following year, Devgn starred and directed the remake of Kaithi (2019), Bholaa, his third directorial. The film was a critical and commercial disappointment.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2024, Devgn had four major releases. The first was the horror film Shaitaan, which received favorable response from critics and emerged a huge hit at the box office.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He then appeared in Amit Ravindernath Sharma's third directorial venture Maidaan, which saw him portraying Indian football coach Syed Abdul Rahim. Although the biopic and Devgn's performance received highly positive reviews, the film was a financial failure.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}Template:Rating</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> His next release, Neeraj Pandey's Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha was also a box office flop, this time to mixed to negative reviews.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Devgn's final release of that year, the fifth installment of Rohit Shetty's Cop Universe, the actioner Singham Again took an initial of ₹437 million and collected Template:INRConvert worldwide, emerging as his highest-grossing movie as well as the sixth highest-grossing Indian film of 2024.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
In 2025, Devgn appeared in a supporting role in his nephew Aaman Devgn's debut film Azaad, directed by Abhishek Kapoor.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He was provided voiceover in historical action film Chhaava.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> His first major release of the year, Raid 2, a sequel to his 2018 release Raid, emerged as a box-office hit, ranking as one of the highest-grossing Hindi films of the year.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He is set to release two more major films, Son of Sardaar 2, a spiritual sequel to his 2012 film Son of Sardaar, and De De Pyaar De 2, a direct sequel to his 2019 film directed by Akiv Ali<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Other worksEdit
ProductionEdit
{{#invoke:Labelled list hatnote|labelledList|Main article|Main articles|Main page|Main pages}} 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2008, Devgn co-produced the drama U Me Aur Hum, which marked his directorial debut.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> 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".<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}Template:Rating</ref>
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.Template:Citation needed 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
In 2018, Ajay Devgn released his first Marathi production Aapla Manus.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The story was a dramatic thriller and written by Vivek Bele. The film was distributed by Viacom 18 Motion Pictures.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
NY VFXWAALAEdit
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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> The company won the Best Special Effects award at the 64th National Film Awards for the film Shivaay (2016).<ref>Template:Cite news</ref>
In the mediaEdit
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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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> Sandeep Unnithan of India Today termed him a "versatile actor" and said, "Devgn is a darling of his directors."<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> 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.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
Devgn is among the most popular and highest paid celebrities in India.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref><ref>Template:Cite news</ref> He has frequently featured in the Forbes IndiaTemplate:'s Celebrity 100 list since 2012. He peaked at the 10th position in 2018 with an estimated annual income of Template:INRConvert.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> In 2019, he was placed 12th, with an estimated annual income of Template:INRConvert.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> He was also inducted into the Bollywood Walk of Fame at Bandra Bandstand, where his hand print was preserved.<ref>Template:Cite news</ref> Devgn was placed 7th in Rediff.comTemplate:'s list of Top 10 Actors of 2000–2010.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In Rediff.com "Top Bollywood Actors" list, Devgn ranked 1st in 2002.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> He subsequently ranked 4th in 2004, 10th in 2006 and 2nd in 2019.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref><ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref> In Eastern Eye's Sexiest Asian Men list of 2011, Devgn was placed 29th.<ref>{{#invoke:citation/CS1|citation |CitationClass=web }}</ref>
See alsoEdit
ReferencesEdit
BibliographyEdit
External linksEdit
- Official Site
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