Dilip Kumar

Dilip Kumar, the 'Tragedy King' of Bollywood, captivated audiences with his natural acting and iconic performances, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Movie Actor

December 11, 1922

July 07, 2021

98

Dilip Kumar, born Muhammad Yusuf Khan on December 11, 1922, in Peshawar, British India (now Pakistan), was an iconic figure in Indian cinema. Often referred to as the “Tragedy King” or the “First Khan” of Bollywood, Kumar’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Indian film industry.

Kumar’s early life was shaped by his upbringing in a Pashtun family. His father, Lala Ghulam Sarwar Khan, was a fruit merchant, while his mother, Ayesha Begum, was a homemaker. Kumar had a passion for acting from a young age and actively participated in stage plays during his school days.

His acting career took off in 1944 with the film “Jwar Bhata.” However, it was his portrayal of the tragic hero in the 1947 film “Jugnu” that brought him widespread recognition. Throughout his career, Kumar showcased his versatility by playing a diverse range of characters, from romantic leads to historical figures. Some of his most notable performances include “Andaz” (1949), “Babul” (1950), “Deedar” (1951), “Aan” (1952), “Daag” (1952), “Devdas” (1955), “Naya Daur” (1957), “Mughal-e-Azam” (1960), “Gunga Jumna” (1961), “Ram Aur Shyam” (1967), “Kranti” (1981), “Karma” (1986), and “Saudagar” (1991).

Kumar’s exceptional talent earned him numerous accolades, including eight Filmfare Awards for Best Actor, the Padma Bhushan in 1991, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1994, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2015. He was the only actor to have won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor for three consecutive years (1954, 1955, and 1956). Kumar’s portrayal of Devdas in the 1955 film of the same name is considered one of the greatest performances in Indian cinema history. He was also the first actor to be paid a fee of one million rupees for a single film.

Dilip Kumar married actress Saira Banu in 1966, and they remained together until his death. The couple did not have any children. Kumar was known for his philanthropic work and was involved in various charitable organizations. He was initially offered the role of “Sher Singh” in the iconic film “Sholay,” but he declined due to creative differences.

Dilip Kumar’s contribution to Indian cinema is immeasurable. His legacy as an actor, producer, and philanthropist continues to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.