Suraj Barjatya stands tall as Bollywood’s undisputed king of family-centric narratives, blending romance, tradition, and values into blockbuster entertainment. With his birthday on February 22, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the man behind the beloved ‘Prem’ character and a string of cinematic gems that have shaped Indian family viewing.
It all began with ‘Maine Pyar Kiya,’ where a young Salman Khan embodied Prem – the quintessential good son, brother, and lover. Barjatya once shared in an interview that they envisioned a boy deeply rooted in family life, interacting warmly with relatives and possessing untainted innocence. The name ‘Prem’ was a serendipitous choice that exploded in popularity, leading to its reuse in films like ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!’ and beyond, each time symbolizing purity and affection.
‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!’ redefined wedding films with its opulent rituals, emotional depth, and chart-topping music, grossing unprecedented figures and cementing Barjatya’s legacy. This was followed by ‘Hum Saath-Saath Hain,’ highlighting fraternal bonds and forgiveness, and ‘Vivah,’ which beautifully portrayed the journey from courtship to marriage. ‘Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi’ and ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’ further explored marital and royal family dynamics. These aren’t mere movies; they’re cultural touchstones teaching respect, sacrifice, and the joy of togetherness.
Adding a light-hearted touch, Barjatya confessed on ‘Indian Idol’ his phobia of animals. Despite preaching their value, he managed shoots cleverly: Tuffy the dog in ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!’ had morning and evening doubles, and he steered clear of the elephant in ‘Hum Saath-Saath Hain,’ directing from afar.
From assisting Mahesh Bhatt to helming mega-hits, Barjatya’s career peaked with the National Award-winning ‘Uunchai.’ His films, rich in cultural nuances and moral fibers, continue to draw families to theaters, proving that in Bollywood, family dramas reign supreme under his masterful direction.