Raja Hindustani(1996)
Raja Hindustani is a 1996 Indian Hindi-language romantic action film directed by Dharmesh Darshan. The lead roles are played by Aamir Khan and Karisma Kapoor. The story follows Raja, a taxi driver from a hill station, who falls in love with Aarti, a wealthy heiress from Mumbai. Their marriage faces opposition from her family, particularly her greedy stepmother Shalini. The film explores class conflict, family betrayal, and the power of love. It was a major commercial success, becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of 1996. The soundtrack, composed by Nadeem-Shravan, sold over 11 million copies. Karisma Kapoor won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress for her performance. The film was released on 15 November 1996.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, Airtel Xstream Play, Netflix, JioHotstar, ShemarooMe
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 1996
- Director
- Dharmesh Darshan
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 57m
- Rating
- 6.2/10
Storyline
A rich city girl named Aarti meets a proud taxi driver named Raja in a small hill town. They fall in love and marry against her family's wishes. Her evil stepmother plots to destroy their marriage with lies. Raja and Aarti are torn apart. They must fight to reunite and save their love.
“A love story that defied all odds.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Raja Hindustani
Cast reunions in this film: Karisma Kapoor & Suresh Oberoi (3 films together), Nishan & Aamir Khan (2 films together), Nishan & Karisma Kapoor (2 films together), and Nishan & Dharmesh Darshan (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally offered to actor Sanjay Dutt, but he turned it down, leading to Aamir Khan's casting.
- The song 'Pardesi Pardesi' was shot in Ooty, but the crew faced heavy rain, causing delays in filming.
- Kareena Kapoor made her acting debut with this film, though it released after 'Refugee' due to production schedules.
- The film's climax scene where Raja slaps Aarti was controversial and sparked debates about domestic violence in cinema.
- It was the highest-grossing Hindi film of 1996 and won several Filmfare Awards, including Best Actor for Aamir Khan.
- The role of Aarti's stepmother was played by veteran actress Smita Jaykar, who often portrayed motherly roles in the 1990s.
- Director Dharmesh Darshan drew inspiration from the 1970 film 'Sachaa Jhutha' for the rich-poor romance theme.