By Tanveer Zaidi (Actor-Author-Educationist)
Success is often attributed to sheer luck, and some even argue that it’s the determining factor. Ask any person who has faced failures, and they might tell you the same. Consider the case of the handsome and talented actor Ravi Kishan, who had the skills, charm, and dedication but still struggled to get consistent opportunities in Bollywood. Despite delivering memorable performances in films like Tere Naam, he couldn’t secure regular roles in such significant projects. This compelled him to step away from Bollywood and carve out his own niche in the entertainment industry.
Ravi Kishan went on to become the pioneer and ultimate superstar of the Bhojpuri film industry, creating a name for himself that far exceeded expectations. Today, he’s celebrated as an iconic actor, a major force in regional cinema, and a two-time Member of Parliament (MP). To explore his incredible journey, Bollywood Reporter spoke with veteran journalist and film trade expert Sharad Rai, who shed light on Ravi Kishan’s rise to stardom.
The Turning Point: Bigg Boss and Bollywood Success
Sharad Rai explained that Ravi Kishan’s fame skyrocketed after his participation in the very first season of the reality show Bigg Boss. His time on the show allowed audiences to see a different side of him, which resonated strongly with Hindi-speaking regions. The exposure he gained through Bigg Boss helped him connect with a broader audience and paved the way for more opportunities.
His performances in films like Laapataa Ladies and Mamla Legal Hai further solidified his reputation as a versatile actor. Ravi Kishan had earlier been lauded for his roles in movies such as Army, where he starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Sridevi, and Tere Naam, where he shared the screen with Salman Khan. Despite his talent and notable performances, however, the Bollywood industry didn’t provide him with the consistent success he deserved.
Sharad Rai remarked, “He had to struggle despite his talent. He did about a dozen Bollywood films, but it just wasn’t his time. He eventually ventured into regional cinema, including Southern Indian films and Bhojpuri movies. It was in these industries that he truly found his calling.”
Building the Bhojpuri Empire
Ravi Kishan didn’t just act in Bhojpuri films; he elevated the entire industry. According to Sharad Rai, Ravi Kishan’s decision to focus on Bhojpuri cinema was a turning point not only for his career but also for the industry itself. By choosing to do quality Bhojpuri films, he quickly became the undisputed king of that space. Simultaneously, his work in South Indian films also garnered praise, showcasing his versatility across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
A Humbling Experience: The Role of Family
During the conversation, Sharad Rai shared an interesting anecdote about Ravi Kishan’s journey. At one point in his career, Ravi Kishan’s arrogance began to rise along with his success. His wife played a crucial role in grounding him. She encouraged him to participate in Bigg Boss, which turned out to be a pivotal moment in his career.
“Ravi Kishan agreed to join the show, and that decision changed everything,” Rai said. “While his Bhojpuri movies were achieving massive success, Bigg Boss reintroduced him to Hindi-speaking audiences, giving his career a much-needed boost in mainstream media.”
A Man of the People
Beyond his success in cinema, Ravi Kishan has also dedicated himself to social work in Bhojpuri-speaking regions. Sharad Rai highlighted how Ravi Kishan’s commitment to his community eventually led him to politics. Contesting elections from Gorakhpur, he won by a significant margin in consecutive elections, further cementing his position as a beloved public figure.
“Ravi Kishan understands the responsibility that comes with success,” Rai said. “He never hesitated to give back to society. His victory in politics is a testament to his dedication to the people.”
The Global Recognition
Ravi Kishan’s performances in films like Laapataa Ladies and Mamla Legal Hai have taken his stardom to an international level. Sharad Rai couldn’t stop praising the actor’s incredible work. “These roles have turned Ravi Kishan into a globally recognized star. His talent, hard work, and resilience have made him a force to reckon with,” he said.
The Superstar’s Own Words
In an interview, Ravi Kishan reflected on the peak of his career and the challenges he faced along the way. “At that time, I had too much money,” he recalled. “I used to work in three shifts a day. I was working on 17 films simultaneously. I would sleep in my car and only rest when traveling from one set to another. At one point, I was shooting for five films in the same studio.”
These anecdotes reveal the relentless dedication and hard work Ravi Kishan put into his craft. His success wasn’t merely a stroke of luck but the result of years of perseverance and determination.
A Story of Resilience
Ravi Kishan’s journey exemplifies the saying, “You never know what worse luck your bad luck has saved you from.” Though he faced numerous challenges and setbacks in Bollywood, those very experiences paved the way for his immense success in regional cinema and beyond. From a struggling actor in Bollywood to the emperor of Bhojpuri cinema and a respected politician, Ravi Kishan’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and unwavering faith in his abilities.
Today, Ravi Kishan stands tall as an inspiration for countless others who dream of achieving greatness despite the odds stacked against them. His journey is a testament to the fact that hard work, combined with the right opportunities, can lead to extraordinary success.