Emraan Hashmi may not have a long list of blockbuster films, but he has earned a cult following for his standout performances. One of his most memorable roles came in the 2010 gangster drama Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, directed by Milan Luthria. In the film, Hashmi portrayed Shoaib Khan, an ambitious underworld figure. His depiction of the character was widely praised and remains a highlight of his career.
Mahesh Bhatt's Warning
However, the decision to take on the role was not an easy one. Hashmi's uncle, filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, had serious reservations about the part. Bhatt feared that the character could damage Hashmi's on-screen image and alter how audiences perceived him. In a 2024 interview with The Lallantop, Hashmi revealed the warning he received before signing the film. He recalled Bhatt saying, 'If you play this character, your career will be over.' Bhatt elaborated, 'While some characters with grey shades are able to redeem themselves, this character will change people's perception of you overnight.' The warning reflected a genuine concern, as anti-hero roles were still considered risky at the time, and actors often avoided morally complex characters.
The Film's Success
Despite the warning, Hashmi went ahead with the project. The risk paid off handsomely. Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai was released in 2010 and became a major commercial and critical success. Hashmi later shared that Bhatt acknowledged his misjudgment. He said, 'When the film released and became a massive success, he called Milan and said, “I am sorry. I was wrong.” He admitted that the film, contrary to his initial thoughts, was entertaining rather than dark.' The success of the film changed perceptions about Hashmi's abilities, proving he could handle layered roles beyond his usual image.
Supporting Cast and Legacy
The film also benefited from a powerful supporting cast, including Ajay Devgn in a key role, along with Kangana Ranaut, Prachi Desai, and Randeep Hooda, who added depth to the narrative. Today, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai is regarded as a modern classic in the gangster genre.
Emraan's Recent Villain Role in 'OG'
On the work front, Hashmi recently appeared in the Telugu film OG, starring Pawan Kalyan in the lead. Hashmi played a negative role, marking his debut in Telugu cinema. The film received a rating of 3 out of 5 stars from ETimes. The review praised his performance, stating, 'Emraan Hashmi makes a strong impact as the menacing Omi, though his character could have used more depth. It still works as a promising debut in this space.' The review also noted, 'Japanese actor Kazuki Kitamura’s brief but memorable cameo hints at bigger things ahead, keeping fans curious for the sequel. Sriya Reddy delivers a solid performance, while Priyanka Arul Mohan’s Kanmani feels underwritten. Prakash Raj, as Satya Dada, brings authority and intensity, especially in his dynamic with OG. Arjun Das too leaves an impression.'
Hashmi's journey from being warned about career ruin to delivering acclaimed performances showcases his resilience and willingness to take risks. His role in Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai remains a testament to his talent and the importance of trusting one's instincts in the face of doubt.
