Ajay Devgn, Aamir Khan and more: As Bholaa releases today, here's taking a look at leading actors who turned directors

Contrary to what us laymen believe, acting is an extremely tough job that requires hard work, determination and perseverance. Not only that, some actors are so good at their craft that they not only act, but pick up direction too, thus proving that some personalities are naturally gifted at being Jack of all trades! Here's taking a look at actors who have have donned the director's hat, with or without starring in those movies...

Ajay Devgn's Bholaa has piqued the interest of Bollywood buffs and has hit screens today. Before this, the actor has directed Shivaay, U Me Aur Hum and Runway 34. According to the actor, Bholaa is a human story and one that will touch a chord with the audience. Ajay had earlier admitted that he immensely enjoys both acting and directing. Bholaa co-stars Tabu, who plays a cop in the movie.

The actor, who is known as a perfectionist, has always gravitated towards direction. Along with director Amole Gupte, Aamir helmed his 2007 flick, Taare Zameen Par. The movie, co-starring Darsheel Safary is the heartwarming tale of eight-year-old Ishaan, who is diagnosed with Dyslexia and finds a friend and confidant in his Art teacher Ram, played by Aamir. The movie remains one the best pieces of work in the last couple of decades.

As an actor, Naseeruddin Shah needs no introduction. The 72-year-old, who is known for movies like A Wednesday, Ardh Satya and Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro has delivered path-breaking performances throughout his career. His directorial debut Yun Hota To Kya Hota was released to critical acclaim in 2006. It starred Konkona Sen Sharma, Paresh Rawal, Irrfan Khan, Ayesha Takia and the actor's son Imaad Shah. This apart, Naseeruddin has directed multiple plays.

Just like Naseeruddin, Anupam Kher is a force to reckon with when it comes to acting. The actor, who made his debut with Mahesh Bhatt's Saaransh, actually played a 65-year-old and aced the part and how. The NSD graduate finally took to direction in 2002 with Om Jai Jagadish. The family drama boasted of an ensemble cast, including Anil Kapoor, Fardeen Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Mahima Chaudhry, Urmila Matondkar and Waheeda Rehman. The movie did not fare well at the BO though, and Anupam returned to acting full time.

Dancer, producer, actor, politician and director - diva Hema Malini dons many hats. The actor, who has given many hits such as Seeta Aur Geeta, Sholay and others continues to act as a leading lady in movies like Baghban. She turned director with movies like Dil Aashna Hai, Mohini and Tell Me O Kkhuda. However, as a director, success has eluded her and now, she concentrates all her energies on politics, dance and acting.