Teachers' Day: Non-Bollywood celebs on what they learnt from Hindi films

Amjad-Khan-Gabbar

Bollywood must have taught you how to woo your crush, perfect a dance move and even inspired you to develop those sexy, washboard abs, or opt for a life-altering hairstyle.

The immortal ‘Kitne Aadmi Thay?' dialogue from Sholay has taught chef Sanjeev Kapoor (below) to never underestimate his opponents

Hindi films have also influenced lives on a philosophical level.

All in all, you always learn something from every movie.

On the occasion of Teachers' Day today, hitlist listens in to some voices from outside B-Town telling us about the unconventional lessons that Hindi films has imparted to them...

Advaita Kala, author



Many years ago, I was watching Baazigar for the second time with an American friend. Just before the climax, I heard my friend scream; the scene had Shah Rukh Khan dying. It was interesting to watch him react that way considering he doesn't even understand the language. That's when I realised the power of the narrative and visual medium. It showcases how good acting can even transcend language barriers.

Rocky S, fashion designer



Bollywood has actually taught me life. Being in the industry for 22 years has given me knowledge of creativity, timing, patience, fame and love, but most important, being humble and grounded, that is the true lesson from Bollywood for me.

Sanjeev Kapoor, chef



Gabbar Singh's dialogue from Sholay, ‘Kitne aadmi thay?' is a lesson in itself. It taught me the power of the opposition and the assessment of it. It may be a small number, but the important thing is to never underestimate it. Even when you understand what it entails, don't underestimate its power. It is not just a popular dialogue but is humbling too and makes you study the environment you are working in. It makes you strategise and prepares you to deal with it.

Diandra Soares, model

Bollywood taught me the famous Indian chest-heaving move - Madhuri Dixit's dhak dhak dance.

Keegan Perreira, member of Laxmi Bomb band

Bollywood has so many genres and facets. I think in the world of indie music, it has taught me that it doesn't matter if you pick a genre or make a new one, just try and make it big.

R Venkat Raman, member, Bhayanak Maut band



As far as Bollywood lessons are concerned, I have learnt that you can dodge bullets if you are really fast enough; if you die, you can always come back to take revenge in your next life, and if it rains, there has to be a song.

Raghavendra Rathore, costume designer

Design per se is a true teacher for many generations to come. And the industry has given paramount importance to the aesthetics of the craft. Lines between Bollywood and fashion have blurred over the years as well. Personally, it has taught me the power to teach and the aptitude to learn in equal amounts.

Ankur Tewari, member of Ghalat Family band


I think what Bollywood has taught me is to "make sure that your payment is big enough, so that the TDS doesn't hurt you".

Compiled by Ria Lawrence, Letty Mariam Abraham and Nikshubha Garg