“The Roshans” docuseries: an engaging watch with an inspiring narrative
“The Roshans” takes a close look at the trials and triumphs of Bollywood's iconic Roshan family. It focuses on the legacy of music director Roshan Lal Nagrath, his sons Rakesh Roshan and Rajesh Roshan, and his grandson Hrithik Roshan.
IMDB Page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31189484/
Documentaries that truly capture the essence of a family's artistic journey are rare, but "The Roshans" emerges as a compelling narrative that transcends the typical biographical exploration. Directed by Shashi Ranjan, this Netflix documentary series offers an intimate glimpse into a family that has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of Bollywood across three generations.
Through its four episodes, the series masterfully chronicles the Roshan family's journey, from the early struggles of patriarch Roshan Lal Nagrath to the rise of his sons Rakesh and Rajesh Roshan, and grandson Hrithik Roshan—each of whom has left an indelible mark on Hindi cinema. The result is a thoughtful exploration of artistic ambition, familial bonds, and the intricate interplay of legacy and creativity.
What truly sets The Roshans apart is its seamless balance of celebration and candor. While the series highlights the family’s extraordinary achievements—from Roshan Lal’s timeless musical compositions to Hrithik Roshan’s meteoric rise as a global superstar—it does not shy away from delving into the hardships and vulnerabilities they encountered along the way. This nuanced portrayal is bolstered by candid interviews, archival footage, and deeply personal anecdotes. For instance, Shah Rukh Khan’s heartfelt reflections and Asha Bhonsle’s fun and illuminating insights lend authenticity to the narrative, elevating the series beyond mere nostalgia.
A recurring theme throughout the series is the enduring power of family legacy. Roshan Lal’s pioneering contributions to Indian music continue to influence the industry decades later, setting the stage for his descendants to build upon his foundation. Rakesh Roshan’s evolution from actor to filmmaker, Rajesh Roshan’s prolific yet underappreciated career as a music director, and Hrithik Roshan’s transformative impact as an actor collectively underscore the family’s remarkable ability to adapt and innovate across generations. This intergenerational narrative resonates deeply, serving as both a tribute to their impact on Bollywood and a testament to the resilience required to sustain such a legacy. Overall, I found the anecdotes of overcoming fear, stress, negativity, and even health crises discussed in the docuseries truly inspiring and noteworthy.
Despite its many strengths, the series does have a few limitations. For a documentary that promises an “inside look” at a legendary film family, it occasionally falters in providing deeper insights into pivotal struggles and personal setbacks. While the episodes touch on significant moments in the Roshans’ journey, they sometimes lack the depth and narrative drama that could have made the series even more compelling. Expanding the series to include additional episodes and adopting a bolder and edgier, more detailed approach might have provided a richer understanding of the emotional and professional trials that shaped the family. (Side note: I would love to learn more about Hrithik Roshan’s journey of 25 years in the Hindi cinema in another documentary or docuseries focused solely on him, along with insightful perspectives and anecdotes from his peers.)
Nonetheless, I was glad to learn many new things. One of the most compelling aspects of the series is its spotlight on the Roshan family’s musical legacy, particularly the contributions of Roshan Lal Nagrath and Rajesh Roshan. For many viewers, including myself, this aspect of the series is revelatory. I knew very little about the legendary musician Roshan and his journey, and even though I have heard many of his compositions, I didn’t know they were his until I watched the docuseries. Actually, I can say the same about Rajesh Roshan’s compositions as well. I didn’t know some of the hit tracks of the '70s and '80s that are extremely popular even today and that I have listened to several times were the creations of Rajesh Roshan.
Therefore, the one key thing the Netflix docuseries gets right is throwing a spotlight on the family’s two “silent” members—the father and his younger son Rajesh Roshan, who never got his due either. Learning about their individual journeys and their significant yet underrated roles in shaping Indian music added a layer of appreciation for their genius and artistry. The series’ focus on these two unsung heroes—whose contributions are often overshadowed by more prominent figures—is both overdue and deeply gratifying.
Ultimately, The Roshans succeeds in offering an honest and heartfelt portrayal of a family whose creative and emotional journey has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. By blending personal stories with a broader exploration of Bollywood’s evolution, the series invites audiences to reflect on the resilience, dedication, and artistry required to build and sustain a legacy. While there is room for a more detailed and daring exploration, the series’ sincerity and depth ensure it is both engaging and impactful. I was hooked and thoroughly enjoyed all four episodes and would highly recommend it to anyone interested in the history and artistry of Bollywood. The series is now streaming on Netflix.
Did you enjoy this essay? ☕ Buy me a cup of joe here.
