"Play the Role Well, Age Doesn’t Matter," Says Actor-Director Deepak Tijori

During the 1990s, Deepak Tijori was a well-known name in Bollywood. His negative and supporting roles were also well-received by audiences. Whether it was Balu in Aashiqui or Shekhar Malhotra in Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Deepak brought a unique flavor to each character. Though he mostly appeared in negative or supporting roles, his presence was so strong that at times he overshadowed even the lead actors. Throughout his acting career, he worked with big names like Akshay Kumar, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan.

After testing his luck in acting, Deepak turned director in 2003 with his debut film Oops!. He went on to direct several more films, including Fareb, Tom, Dick and Harry, Fox, and Do Lafzon Ki Kahani.

Comeback with a Short Film

After a long hiatus, Deepak Tijori returned with the short film Echoes of Us, which he wrote and acted in. The film has already been showcased and nominated at several film festivals in Spain and the U.S., and is expected to release in India later this year.

Speaking about his return to the screen, Deepak shared why he stayed away from films for so long. He said, “It was a conscious decision. There was a time when I did a few supporting roles, and people began to assume that was all I was suited for. So, I stepped back. Now, the industry has changed—there are more opportunities, more platforms, and more freedom for an artist to explore different kinds of work. I felt it was the right time. I want to work with my real age and appearance.”

He added, “But the challenge was—how do I communicate this to the industry? That’s why I wrote this short film. I also did another film, Ittar, where my look and character suit my current age. The beauty that comes with age—why can’t we show that on screen? I’ve always wanted to be a part of such cinema.”

Aging Heroes Are Still Heroes

Deepak also spoke about choosing roles as he grows older. “If you look at French, Iranian, or Hollywood films, actors like Robert De Niro and Al Pacino are still playing lead roles. So, what crime have I committed? If you can perform a role well, age shouldn’t matter,” he said.

Debut with 'Tera Naam Mera Naam'

Now a director, Deepak Tijori began his career in 1988 with the film Tera Naam Mera Naam. However, he gained recognition in 1990 with the blockbuster Aashiqui, starring Rahul Roy and Anu Aggarwal in lead roles. Deepak’s performance won hearts. He was seen for the first time as a lead actor in the 1993 film Pehla Nasha, alongside Raveena Tandon and Pooja Bhatt. Unfortunately, the film didn’t do well at the box office.

Replaced Akshay Kumar

One of Deepak Tijori’s most memorable films was the 1992 hit Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, with Aamir Khan in the lead. Interestingly, the role Deepak played was initially auditioned for by Akshay Kumar, who was rejected. The makers then chose Deepak for the part.

Other Notable Works

In addition to Aashiqui, Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, and Pehla Nasha, Deepak acted in several other films including Sadak, Anjaam, Krodh, Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin,   Fareb, Saajan Ka Ghar,  Santaan, khiladi, Chhoti Bahoo and  Baadshah.  

In the ’90s, Deepak Tijori won hearts with his friendly, relatable characters. Today, he brings fresh perspectives to storytelling. Whether it’s acting or directing, Deepak has consistently reinvented himself. His passion, understanding, and experience prove one thing—a true artist never retires.

Deepak Tijori Movies

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