As Anil Sharma turns a year older on March 7, 2025, we look back at the journey of the filmmaker behind some of Bollywood’s most iconic patriotic dramas. Born in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, on March 7, 1955, Sharma's cinematic path is filled with fascinating milestones.

1. A Film Journey That Began at 18

Coming from a culturally rich family—his grandfather, Pt. Dalchand, was a renowned astrologer—Sharma’s passion for storytelling was deeply rooted. After earning a Bachelor of Science from Khalsa College, he entered Bollywood at just 18 as an assistant director to B.R. Chopra, working on classics like Pati Patni Aur Woh (1978) and The Burning Train (1980).

2. A Visionary Director at 21

Sharma made his directorial debut at just 21 with Shradhanjali (1981), earning praise for his storytelling. He went on to deliver hits like Hukumat (1987) and Tahalka (1992). At one point, he even dreamed of setting up a Mumbai studio modeled after Universal Studios in Los Angeles—an ambition that highlights his larger-than-life vision.

3. A Career-Defining Decision for Priyanka Chopra

During a critical phase in Priyanka Chopra’s career, when a cosmetic procedure led to industry skepticism, Sharma stood by her. He retained her in The Hero: Love Story of a Spy (2003) and actively championed her in the industry, proving his dedication to nurturing talent.

4. The Accidental Casting of His Son in Gadar

For the role of Jeete, Tara and Sakina’s son in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001), Sharma struggled to find the perfect child actor. It was only after observing his own son, Utkarsh Sharma, at home that he realized he had the ideal fit. Initially hesitant due to fears of favoritism, he was convinced after Utkarsh’s screen test won over the producers. Years later, Utkarsh reprised his role in Gadar 2 (2023), marking a full-circle moment in Bollywood history.

5. The real story behind the iconic Handpump Scene in Gadar

The iconic hand-pump scene from Gadar has a separate fanbase, but did you know that many people suggested to the filmmaker Anil Sharma that he should not include the hand-pump scene in Gadar, but he was very adamant. He was sure that this scene would land with the audience and he went ahead with it, and the rest is history.