Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Jan 1: Veteran actor Jackie Shroff once opened up about his extraordinary journey from a modest upbringing to becoming one of Hindi cinema’s most respected performers, crediting filmmaker Subhash Ghai as the turning point in his life. A resurfaced video from an earlier edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards has brought his heartfelt words back into the spotlight.
In the clip, recorded when he was being honoured on stage, Jackie Shroff candidly spoke about his background and the odds he overcame. He recalled growing up in a chawl and slum environment, with no exposure to acting or the film world. He admitted that he never imagined himself as a leading man and even struggled with language, saying he could not speak Hindi or any other language fluently. According to him, it was Subhash Ghai who saw potential where he himself saw none, offering him the chance to become a hero and patiently guiding him through the process. Jackie expressed deep respect and gratitude to the filmmaker, acknowledging that Ghai’s mentorship gave him the confidence to share a stage with accomplished actors like Anil Kapoor.
Jackie Shroff’s life story is one of resilience shaped by hardship. Raised amid financial struggles and personal loss, he dropped out of school at a young age to support his family, taking up various odd jobs. His entry into the entertainment industry came unexpectedly through modelling, and acting was never part of a carefully laid plan. His breakthrough role in Hero transformed his life overnight, with his raw screen presence and street-honed authenticity setting him apart in an industry dominated by polished star personas.
The road ahead, however, was far from smooth. His career witnessed fluctuations, box-office setbacks, and the constant challenge of remaining relevant as Hindi cinema evolved. Instead of fading away, Jackie reinvented himself, transitioning from romantic leads to layered character roles with quiet confidence. Films such as Parinda, Gardish, Rangeela, and Devdas highlighted his emotional range and acting depth, earning him critical acclaim that went beyond commercial success.
Perhaps one of Jackie Shroff’s most defining achievements has been his steadfast connection to his roots. Despite decades of fame, he retained his grounded outlook, spiritual inclination, and distinctive, unconventional lifestyle. Long before reinvention became a buzzword, he embraced diverse roles across mainstream and regional cinema, carving out a career marked by authenticity, adaptability, and enduring respect.