Priyanka Tiwari
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Many actors have come and gone in Hindi cinema, but some leave an everlasting impact. One such actor dominated the industry, instilling fear in audiences with his powerful performances. Whenever the term "villain" is mentioned, his name comes to mind first. Over decades, his remarkable talent and dedication made him Bollywood's most feared antagonist.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on February 12, 1920, in Lahore (then part of India), this legendary actor was Pran. Before India's partition, his family moved to Ballimaran, Delhi. Coming from a wealthy background, his father was a renowned engineer handling major projects in the capital. The family envisioned a prosperous career for Pran in academics or engineering, but he was drawn to cinema. At that time, the film industry was not considered a respectable profession, making his father's disapproval inevitable.
A Chance Encounter that Changed His Life
Despite family opposition, fate had different plans. Pran, passionate about acting, initially worked as a photographer, earning ₹200 per month. One day, while standing at a paan shop, a stranger approached him with a film offer. Skeptical, Pran refused. However, when the same person introduced himself as an assistant to a prominent producer, he reconsidered and visited the studio.
There, Pran was signed for a film, but his excitement dimmed when he learned he would be paid only ₹50. Initially hesitant, he was convinced that success in the industry could eventually bring him thousands or even lakhs.
The Journey from Struggle to Stardom
Pran began his film career in 1940 with Yamla Jat. The early days were challenging, but he soon carved a niche for himself. He played numerous roles, yet his portrayal of villains made him a household name. By the 1970s, his popularity soared, and he commanded fees of ₹5 to ₹10 lakh per film, a staggering sum at the time.
The Most Feared Villain of Hindi Cinema
Pran's deep voice, intense expressions, and unique acting style cemented his place as Hindi cinema's most formidable antagonist. Over his career, he appeared in over 350 films, delivering unforgettable performances. His contributions were recognized with prestigious awards, including Filmfare, Padma Bhushan, and several lifetime achievement honors.
A Shift to Positive Roles
As he aged, Pran transitioned to positive characters, which audiences embraced wholeheartedly. Even today, his films remain popular, and his legendary villainous roles continue to captivate viewers.
Pran’s legacy as Bollywood’s most iconic villain remains unparalleled, and his impact on Hindi cinema is truly timeless.
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