Come September and it would be known to one and all that kisme kitna hai dum. Month of July has been extraordinary for Bollywood with four huge hits in a row. However September could well be the most defining month of 2011 when it comes to youngsters taking the forefront and rising up to the challenge. Shahid Kapoor, Imran Khan and John Abraham - three Gen X actors on whom Bollywood future is dependent would be vying for attention right through the month, hence claiming their spot under the sun.

Says a filmmaker who has a knack for launching newcomers, "This is the most crucial period for the industry since all three actors are at a very crucial juncture of their career. Shahid has to score a big hit with 'Mausam' so that after 'Kaminey, 'Jab We Met' and 'Vivah', he can stake further claim in the bracket of top stars. Ditto for Imran Khan who has to now strike hard with 'Mere Brother Ki Dulhan' now that his positioning is hot after 'Delhi Belly', 'Break Ke Baad' and 'I Hate Luv Storys'."

The man who can be expected to be the most anxious of all is John Abraham who has some catching up to do after 'Jhoota Hi Sahi'. However with 'Force' looking good, he now needs to reclaim his 'New York' and 'Dostana' positioning.

"The biggest fun though lies in seeing how coming together of this young blood takes on the might of Salman Khan," a trade pundit quips, "Don't forget that his 'Bodyguard' would be a solid threat for everyone who dares to come in September. Though his film opens on Eid, it would see full fledged release only on 2nd September. Especially Imran can't take him too lightly as he arrives only a week later."

One wonders how the fun element would have only accentuated further had Ranbir stuck to his original plans for September arrival of 'Rockstar'! Now that would have resulted in some battle of supremacy for sure.