Who Was Hakim Kairanvi?
In the dazzling world of Bollywood, legends are born both in front of the camera and behind it. While we celebrate actors and directors, some of the most influential artists are the unsung heroes who shape the very image of our stars. One such master craftsman was the legendary celebrity hairstylist Hakim Kairanvi.
His is a story as dramatic as any blockbuster film, ending in a moment that has become industry folklore.
A Shocking Death While Cutting Amitabh Bachchan‘s Hair
Imagine the scene: The year is 1985 on the set of Manmohan Desai’s epic film, Mard. The nation’s biggest superstar, Amitabh Bachchan, is in his makeup room. Holding the scissors is his trusted stylist and friend, Hakim Kairanvi, meticulously at work.
Suddenly, in a shocking turn of events, the stylist collapsed, suffering a fatal heart attack. He died, quite literally, with scissors in hand, in the service of his craft and his most famous client. This tragic event sent shockwaves through the industry, and Bachchan himself was deeply affected by the loss of a collaborator who had been with him from the start of his superstardom.
Architect of the ‘Angry Young Man’ Look
While his death was dramatic, Hakim Kairanvi‘s life was defined by his revolutionary artistry. When a lanky, intense actor named Amitabh Bachchan was breaking the mould in the early 70s, it was Hakim who gave him the look that would define a generation.
The slightly long, dishevelled, side-parted hair that framed Bachchan’s brooding face in classics like Zanjeer, Deewar, and Sholay was Hakim’s creation. He crafted the iconic ‘Angry Young Man’ look—a hairstyle that became a symbol of rebellion and angst for millions across India. His chair wasn’t just for a haircut; it was where icons were forged.
A Global Legend: Styling Muhammad Ali and Bruce Lee
Hakim Kairanvi’s magic was not confined to Bollywood. His reputation was global, and his client list was a testament to his unparalleled skill.
- Muhammad Ali: When the greatest boxer of all time needed a trim, he sought out Hakim.
- Bruce Lee: During a visit to India, the martial arts dragon reportedly visited Hakim’s salon.
- Tony Greig: The famous English cricketer was also among his international clientele.
He also styled countless Bollywood luminaries like Dilip Kumar and Sunil Dutt, proving his artistry transcended genres and borders.
The Legacy Lives On Through Aalim Hakim
Born in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, Hakim’s journey to the pinnacle of hairstyling elevated his profession from a simple service to a celebrated art form. He understood that a hairstyle could communicate character and attitude more powerfully than a page of dialogue.
His legacy never truly died. Today, it is carried on by his son, Aalim Hakim, who has become one of the most celebrated celebrity hairstylists of his own generation, styling stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Virat Kohli, and Hrithik Roshan.
Hakim Kairanvi’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every iconic look, there is an artist. Every time we see a glimpse of the Angry Young Man on screen, we see the immortal work of a true legend.
