"A journey that continues to amaze me...": Hrithik Roshan marks 15 years of 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' with heartfelt tribute to film and team
Mumbai, July 16
Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan marked the 15th anniversary of the acclaimed film 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' with a heartfelt social media tribute, describing the 2011 movie as a transformative experience that continues to hold personal and professional significance for him.
Sharing a reflective note on Instagram, Hrithik celebrated the film as more than just a cinematic milestone and described it as "a journey that continues to amaze me."
The actor reflected on how his character Arjun became closely connected with his own personal journey.
"Arjun was a character who allowed me to channel on screen a conundrum I was dealing with in real life," Hrithik wrote.
The actor also praised director Zoya Akhtar for creating an environment that encouraged artistic freedom and collaboration throughout the filmmaking process.
"As we got closer to shooting, across many conversations with Zoya, I found a director and collaborator who let the actor in me run free. The confidence she had in her process was unshakable, and it allowed her to liberate all of us artists on set," he wrote.
Reflecting on the bond shared by the cast and crew during production, Hrithik recalled the experience with warmth and gratitude.
"We were a bunch of fools having fun, and in hindsight creating something meaningful in the process. Thank you Zo for allowing us to be fools," he wrote.
Describing the making of the film as a "deeply transformative and cathartic experience," Hrithik credited the entire team for creating a film that has continued to connect with audiences over the years.
Addressing his co-stars Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif and Kalki Koechlin, along with the film's technical and creative teams, he wrote:
"Together we created a film that continues to speak to audiences even 15 years later. We did this. And most importantly, we had fun while doing it!"
He concluded his tribute by expressing gratitude for being part of the project. "Thank you universe for the opportunity to be a part of this magical film," Hrithik wrote.
Released in theatres on July 15, 2011, 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara' was directed by Zoya Akhtar and produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under the Excel Entertainment banner.
The film starred Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif and Kalki Koechlin.
The road-trip drama follows three friends as they embark on a journey across Spain, where they participate in adventurous activities including the Running of the Bulls, skydiving, scuba diving and the Tomatina festival.
The film received widespread appreciation for its storytelling, visual appeal, performances, music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Javed Akhtar's poetry. Over the years, the movie has developed a strong fan following and attained cult status among audiences.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I remember watching this in a theatre in 2011 with my then-girlfriend (now wife). We both cried at the scuba diving scene. The film's message about living in the moment is timeless. But I do wish Bollywood made more grounded, character-driven films like this instead of all the big action masala. ZNMD set a benchmark that few have matched.
As someone who moved to India from the US a few years ago, this movie was my introduction to modern Bollywood. I was blown away by the cinematography and the depth of the characters. Hrithik's performance as Arjun – dealing with that internal conflict between work and personal life – that's universal. The Spain visuals are absolutely stunning.
ZNMD is one of those rare films that gets better with every re-watch. The chemistry between Hrithik, Farhan and Abhay was spot on. And that poetry by Javed Akhtar – "Zindagi na milegi dobara" – it's become a life motto for a generation. But I feel Hrithik's honest reflection about his personal struggles making the film is what makes this tribute so special. 🙏
Honestly, this film is still my go-to comfort movie. The soundtrack alone – "Dil Dhadakne Do", "Senorita", "Ik Junoon" – absolute masterpieces by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. Hrithik's note shows how much this project meant to him personally. The fact that he was dealing with his own real-life issues while playing Arjun makes the performance even more powerful. 15 years and still relevant! ✨
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