Bollywood News / The producer whom actors are scared of, gave history making films to Bollywood

Bollywood News: Yesterday, on 5th September 2025, was the birthday of Bollywood's veteran producer-director Vidyu Vinod Chopra. Vidyu Vinod Chopra is one of the few filmmakers who changed the face of Indian cinema with his unique stories and passionate storytelling style. His films not only entertain but also leave a deep mark in the hearts of the audience. Notably, he laid the foundation of gangster films in Bollywood with his 1989 film Parinda, which brought the world of crime alive on screen.

From Kashmir to Mumbai: An Inspiring Journey

Vidyu Vinod Chopra was born on 5th September, 1952 in Srinagar, Kashmir. After receiving training from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, he started his career in 1976 with the short film Murder at Monkey Hill. The film earned him a National Award from the Government of India. After this, his second short film An Encounter with Faces in 1978 highlighted the poignant story of India's destitute children. The film received a nomination at the 1979 Academy Awards and won the Grand Prix Award at the 1980 Tampere International Short Film Festival.

Foray into mainstream cinema

In 1981, Chopra entered Bollywood with his first mainstream Hindi film Sazaye Maut (Death Row). His subsequent films Khamosh, Parinda, 1942: A Love Story, Kareeb, and Mission Kashmir won over critics and audiences. His film Parinda gave a new dimension to gangster drama in Indian cinema.

Munnabhai and the wave of Gandhism

In 2003, Chopra moved away from direction and produced Munnabhai MBBS under the banner of his company Vinod Chopra Films. Directed by Rajkumar Hirani, the film became one of the most iconic and successful films of Indian cinema. Its sequel, Lage Raho Munnabhai (2006), presented Mahatma Gandhi's non-violence principles in a modern context, creating a new wave of 'Gandhism' across India.

Critics' and audiences' favourite

Chopra produced and wrote Parineeta (2005) along with Pradeep Sarkar, which was well received by critics and audiences. In 2007, he returned to direction with Eklavya: The Royal Guard. Next, his another film 3 Idiots (2009) with Rajkumar Hirani created box office history. The film was India's biggest hit until 2017 and won several honours including the Filmfare Award. Its popularity also spread to international markets like Taiwan and Korea.

Chances to new talent

Chopra also played an important role in giving opportunities to new directors. He co-wrote and produced Ferrari Ki Sawaari (2012) with Rajesh Mapuskar, which was loved by audiences for its emotional message. In 2014, PK once again repeated the success of his and Hirani's pairing.

Hollywood debut

In 2015, Chopra made his directorial debut in Hollywood with Broken Horses, which was co-produced by American company Mandeville Films. Subsequently, he produced films such as Wazir (2016), Sanju (2018), and Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga (2018).

Stories still live on

Vidya Vinod Chopra's films are not only a means of entertainment but also a symbol of social messages and emotional depth. His stories still live on in the hearts of the audience and his contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered.