Ashutosh Gowariker

Born: 15 February, 1964

Biography: Ashutosh Gowariker is an actor turned director-producer. He is one of the finest filmmakers in Indian cinema and a winner of several National and International awards including a nomination to the Oscars.

He started his career with ads and acting in films and television serials. He first appeared on screen in the film Holi in 1984. This was followed by his work in serials like CID, Circus and Kachchi Dhoop. He also starred in other films like Mahesh Bhatt’s Naam, David Rathod’s West is West, Jalal Agha’s Goonj, Kundan Shah’s Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa and so on.

Ashutosh forayed into filmmaking in 1993. With a diverse experience at hand, he made his directorial debut with the film Pehla Nasha inspired by Hollywood’s Body Double. Although this movie failed commercially it gave him the much needed kick to start his career in Bollywood. His next film Baazi (1995) also proved to be a moderate success.

In 2001 released his greatest hit so far, Lagaan - a movie set in Rural India. He directed this movie. It showcased the British Raj, rural folks and was a movie based on cricket. This film won several awards for Best Director and Best Film. This included Filmfare and National Film Awards back home and awards at several International Film Festivals. It also won the nomination to the Oscars, Academy Awards and European Film Award.

2004 saw the release of Swades starring Shahrukh Khan. Though this movie did not do as well in India, it was critically acclaimed and was well received overseas. His last film Jodha Akbar (2008) another epic film starring Hrithik and Aishwariya was well received in India as well as abroad. Besides this, he directed 5 commercials for Coca Cola which won him Campaign of the Year honor and other accolades. Ashutosh is currently working on a romantic comedy film, What’s Your Raashee?

AKA & Alternative Spellings: Ashutosh Govariker