Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai: The Blockbuster Debut That Made Hrithik Roshan a Sensation Overnight

Released on January 14, 2000, Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai is counted among those rare Hindi films that have only grown more special with time. It was not just a film—it marked the birth of a star who, almost instantly, began ruling millions of hearts. The film turned Hrithik Roshan into an overnight superstar and earned him the title of the “heartbeat of young hearts.” Made as a musical romantic action thriller, the film still enjoys a powerful connection with audiences.

Ameesha Patel’s Debut Film

Alongside Hrithik Roshan, the film featured Ameesha Patel. It was the debut film for both actors, and their pairing was immensely loved by audiences. Interestingly, during the initial planning stages, Kareena Kapoor was considered for the female lead, but eventually Ameesha Patel was chosen. Her innocence and screen presence added depth to the film’s love story.

It was also revealed that the film was initially planned with Shah Rukh Khan or Aamir Khan in mind. Hrithik disclosed this in an interview, saying, “I was involved with the script of this film. After a week or two, everyone realized that the film needed a new face. That’s how I came on board.”

Hrithik Received Marriage Proposals

After the release of Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, Hrithik Roshan was no longer just an actor—he became a phenomenon, the kind Hindi cinema had not seen in a long time. Thousands of marriage proposals poured in for him from across the country. Fans thronged production houses and his home, with many girls openly expressing their desire to marry him. In several places, the frenzy reached such heights that fans waited for hours outside his house and shooting locations just to catch a glimpse of him. His dancing style, personality, and romantic image especially captivated young women, firmly establishing Hrithik as a national heartthrob. That phase proved that Hindi cinema had found its next superstar.

The House Was Mortgaged

The film’s story, direction, and production were all handled by Rakesh Roshan. It was one of the most ambitious projects of his career. His passion for the film knew no limits. In an interview, he revealed that he had a clear vision of grand and unique locations for the film. He wanted a song to be shot on a ship in the middle of the sea and filming to take place at breathtaking, lesser-seen locations like Krabi Island and New Zealand. To bring this vision to life, the film’s budget went far beyond expectations, and driven by his passion, Rakesh Roshan even mortgaged his house.

Songs Became Superhits

The film’s music took its popularity to new heights. Composed by Rajesh Roshan, the soundtrack remains a part of people’s playlists even today. Lyrics penned by Ibrahim Ashq, Sawan Kumar Tak, and Vijay Akela left a deep impact on young listeners. Songs sung by Lucky Ali—especially “Ek Pal Ka Jeena” and “Na Tum Jaano Na Hum”—made the film musically immortal.

Babul Supriyo, Udit Narayan, and Kumar Sanu also lent their voices for Hrithik Roshan in the film. The music was launched at The Club in Andheri by Rakesh Roshan’s close friends Jeetendra and Rishi Kapoor.

Blockbuster Success, Multiple Awards

Made on a modest budget of just ₹10 crore, the film went on to collect around ₹80 crore worldwide, emerging as a super blockbuster. It also swept awards galore. At the Filmfare Awards, the film won 9 awards, and Hrithik Roshan became the only actor to win both Best Actor and Best Male Debut in the same year. By 2002, the film had won 92 awards, earning a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Rakesh Roshan, too, won the first Filmfare Award of his career with this film.

Not only that, after the film’s release, New Zealand became a dream destination for Indian audiences. A large number of Indian tourists began visiting the country, ushering in a new wave of film-induced tourism.

Film Re-released

The enduring popularity of Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai is evident from the fact that even after 25 years, it managed to draw audiences back to theatres. On the occasion of its 25th anniversary (January 14, 2025), the film was re-released on the big screen.

The re-release not only transported older audiences back to their golden memories but also introduced a new generation to the cinematic magic that once made Hrithik Roshan an overnight superstar. Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai is not just a hit of its time—it is a timeless cinematic experience whose glow has only deepened with time.

Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai is a film that redefined love, music, and stardom. Its songs are still heard, its scenes still remembered, and Hrithik Roshan’s debut is still counted among the most memorable debuts in Hindi cinema. That is why, even after so many years, the film continues to shine with the same importance and charm—like a truly timeless classic.

FAQs

Q1. In which year was 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai' released?

A1. According to Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai release history, the film was released in theatres on January 14, 2000.

Q2. How did this film change Hrithik Roshan's career?

A2. Hrithik Roshan debut movie success made him a superstar overnight and earned him recognition as the "heartthrob of the youth".

Q3. 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai' is a film of which genre?

A3. Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai romantic action thriller is a musical, romantic and action thriller film.

Q4. Is 'Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai' considered a cult classic?

A4. Yes, Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai is a cult classic in Bollywood, which has become even more special with time.

Q5. What is the reason for the popularity of this film among the audience?

A5. Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai musical blockbuster's memorable music, story and Hrithik Roshan heartthrob debut are the main reasons for its popularity.

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