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Karisma Kapoor, who celebrates her 50th birthday on June 25, has had a remarkable journey in Bollywood. Making her debut with "Prem Qaidi" in 1991, she initially faced criticism for her performances and costumes in massy films. However, she silenced her critics with a stunning makeover in Dharmesh Darshan's "Raja Hindustani" and ventured into arthouse cinema with notable films like "Fiza" and "Zubeidaa." As we celebrate her golden jubilee, let's look at five of her most iconic roles that define her illustrious career.
Raja Hindustani (1996)
In Dharmesh Darshan's "Raja Hindustani," Karisma Kapoor's transformation was nothing short of spectacular. Her portrayal of Arti, a wealthy girl who falls in love with a humble taxi driver, played by Aamir Khan, marked a significant shift in her career. The film, based on the traditional love story involving class divisions, drew inspiration from the Shashi Kapoor-Nanda starrer "Jab Jab Phool Khile" (1965). Karisma's character underwent a metamorphosis from a damsel-in-distress to a sophisticated woman, which resonated with the audience. The film's music, especially the song "Pardesi Pardesi," became a '90s sensation. The chemistry between Karisma and Aamir, particularly in the famous kissing scene, was groundbreaking for its time. Despite the conservative era, the censor board gave the film a U certificate without objections. Karisma and Aamir both won Filmfare Awards for their performances, and "Raja Hindustani" became the biggest commercial hit of their careers up to that point.
Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)
In Yash Chopra's musical love story "Dil To Pagal Hai," Karisma Kapoor starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit. Many leading actresses of the time, including Manisha Koirala, Urmila Matondkar, Juhi Chawla, and Kajol, declined the role of Nisha. Karisma, however, embraced the challenge of playing the second lead and delivered a performance that earned her a National Award for Best Supporting Actor (Female). Her "Dance of Envy" sequence with Madhuri Dixit showcased her exceptional dancing skills and was highly praised for its choreography and glamour. Karisma's portrayal of Nisha, a passionate dancer caught in a love triangle, resonated with audiences and solidified her status as a versatile actress.
Haseena Maan Jayegi (1999)
Returning to the massy genre, Karisma Kapoor starred in David Dhawan's comedy-drama "Haseena Maan Jayegi," alongside Govinda and Sanjay Dutt. The film, which also featured Pooja Batra and Anupam Kher, was a laugh riot and showcased Karisma's impeccable comic timing. Her chemistry with Govinda, especially in their dance numbers, was a highlight of the film. Karisma played Ritu Verma, a character that brought out her flair for comedy and high-energy performances. "Haseena Maan Jayegi" was a box-office hit and became the fifth-highest-grossing Hindi film of 1999, further cementing Karisma's place in Bollywood's comedic space.
Fiza (2000)
Karisma Kapoor took a bold step by starring in Khalid Mohammed's "Fiza," a film that tackled themes of communal riots and religious discrimination. She played the titular role, portraying Hrithik Roshan's elder sister, who embarks on a painful journey to find her missing brother, only to discover he has become a terrorist. Karisma's performance in "Fiza" was widely acclaimed for its depth and emotional intensity. Her portrayal of Fiza's anguish and determination was considered one of her best performances, earning her accolades and praise from both critics and audiences. The film showcased Karisma's ability to handle complex and serious roles, marking a significant departure from her earlier work.
Zubeidaa (2001)
In Shyam Benegal's "Zubeidaa," Karisma Kapoor delivered one of the most memorable performances of her career. The film, written by Khalid Mohammed, was based on the life of Zubeida Begum, an ill-fated actress who married Hanwant Singh of Jodhpur. Karisma played the titular role, bringing to life the tragic yet captivating story of Zubeidaa. Her portrayal was nuanced and powerful, capturing the essence of a woman torn between her ambitions and societal expectations. Acting opposite Manoj Bajpayee, Karisma's performance in this period film was a testament to her versatility and dedication to her craft. "Zubeidaa" remains a standout in her filmography, showcasing her ability to excel in complex, character-driven narratives.
Also read: Top 9 Female Led Bollywood Movies That Smashed Box Office Records
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