hBy The Indus Zone Media Desk | Published: Nov 26, 2025 | The Inspiring Legacy of Hrithik Roshan’s Family
The Roshan family is today one of the most powerful and admired names in Indian cinema. With superstar Hrithik Roshan, filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, and music composer Rajesh Roshan, the family dominates multiple pillars of Bollywood. But few know that this glittering legacy began with a man who once arrived in India as a jobless and homeless refugee from Pakistan—Hrithik’s grandfather, Roshan Lal Nagrath.
This is the story of how one man’s struggle, talent, and determination created a multigenerational entertainment empire now valued in thousands of crores.
Roshan Lal Nagrath: The Musical Genius Who Laid the Foundation
Born on July 14, 1917, in Gujranwala (now in Pakistan), Roshan Lal Nagrath displayed exceptional musical ability from an early age. His passion for melody and classical sound led him to train under legendary gurus. He refined his skills at Marris College, Lucknow, under Pandit S.N. Ratanjankar, and later trained in sarod under the iconic Allauddin Khan of Maihar gharana.
His early professional recognition came when All India Radio (AIR), Delhi, appointed him as a staff artist in 1940, where he showcased his mastery over the esraj. However, after resigning from AIR in 1948, Roshan took a massive risk by moving to Bombay (now Mumbai) to build a career in the Hindi film industry.
Homeless, Jobless, and Struggling in Bollywood
Roshan’s early years in Bombay were marked by intense struggle. With no steady income and limited industry connections, survival itself became a challenge. He worked as an assistant on the film Singaar (1949), but real success remained elusive.
His turning point came when filmmaker Kidar Sharma recognized his raw talent and gave him his first major break as an independent music director in Neki Aur Badi (1949). Though the film did not perform well commercially, Sharma stood by him and offered another opportunity.
That second chance changed everything.
Breakthrough With Baawre Nain and Rise to Stardom
Roshan’s career transformed with the massive success of Baawre Nain (1950). The film’s music became hugely popular, establishing him as a powerful new voice in Hindi cinema. Over the next decade, he worked with legendary singers such as Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, Mukesh, and Talat Mahmood.
His remarkable compositions in films like Malhar, Anhonee, Shisham, and Naubahar defined an era of soulful and classical Bollywood music.
The Golden Era of the 1960s
The 1960s marked the peak of Roshan’s musical brilliance. His work in Barsaat Ki Raat (1960), especially its legendary qawwalis and romantic tracks, brought him nationwide fame. He became known for blending classical, folk, and emotional depth—a style that influenced generations of musicians.
Family, Tragedy, and an Early Goodbye
Roshan married Ira Moitra in 1948. They had two sons—Rakesh Roshan and Rajesh Roshan—both of whom would go on to become major names in Bollywood.
Despite his success, Roshan had been battling heart illness for over two decades. On November 16, 1967, he passed away due to a heart attack at just 50 years of age, cutting short a legendary career.
The Legacy Lives On: Rakesh, Rajesh, and Hrithik Roshan
Roshan Lal Nagrath’s legacy didn’t end with him—it multiplied.
Rakesh Roshan became one of Bollywood’s most successful directors and producers.
Rajesh Roshan emerged as a top music composer with countless chartbusters.
Hrithik Roshan, the third generation, rose to global stardom with blockbusters like Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, Dhoom 2, Jodhaa Akbar, War, and many more.
Hrithik Roshan’s 3,100 Crore Empire
Today, Hrithik Roshan’s estimated net worth is around ₹3,100 crore, making him one of India’s richest actors. His income comes from:
Blockbuster films and production ventures
High-end brand endorsements
His fitness brand HRX, valued at around ₹200 crore
Strategic investments in wellness and lifestyle startups
Luxury properties, including a ₹100 crore Juhu sea-facing home and a ₹33 crore farmhouse in Lonavala
From Refugee Struggle to Bollywood Royalty
The Roshan family’s story is more than just fame and fortune—it is a powerful tale of migration, hardship, resilience, and artistic excellence. What began with a homeless musician from pre-Partition India has today transformed into a ₹3,000+ crore global entertainment legacy.
Roshan Lal Nagrath’s journey proves that true talent, when backed by patience and sacrifice, can change generations.
