Dev Anand, born Dharamdev Pishorimal Anand on September 26, 1923, in Shakargarh, Punjab (now in Pakistan), emerged as one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema. Known for his charming personality and unique acting style, Anand’s career spanned over six decades, during which he appeared in more than 100 films. He was honored with prestigious awards, including the Padma Bhushan in 2001 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2002, recognizing his immense contribution to Indian cinema.
Anand’s journey in the film industry began in 1946 with his debut in “Hum Ek Hain,” a film promoting Hindu-Muslim unity. However, it was his performance in “Ziddi” (1948) that catapulted him to stardom. He solidified his reputation with the crime thriller “Baazi” (1951), a film that marked the beginning of the “Bombay Noir” genre in Bollywood. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Anand starred in numerous successful films such as “Jaal” (1952), “Taxi Driver” (1954), “C.I.D.” (1956), and “Kala Pani” (1958), the latter earning him his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor.
Anand’s versatility as an actor was evident as he transitioned seamlessly from crime thrillers to romantic dramas. Films like “Manzil” (1960), “Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai” (1961), and “Hum Dono” (1961) established him as a romantic hero. His performance in “Guide” (1965), based on R.K. Narayan’s novel, was a significant milestone in his career. The film was a critical and commercial success and was even India’s entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 38th Academy Awards.
In addition to acting, Anand ventured into film production and direction. He co-founded Navketan Films in 1949 with his brother Chetan Anand. His directorial debut came with “Prem Pujari” in 1970, but it was “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” (1971) that garnered widespread acclaim. The film addressed the hippie culture and introduced Zeenat Aman, who became an overnight sensation.
Despite his advancing age, Anand continued to captivate audiences with his energetic performances and directorial ventures. In the 1970s and 80s, he delivered hits like “Johny Mera Naam” (1970), “Banarasi Babu” (1973), and “Des Pardes” (1978), the latter marking the debut of actress Tina Munim.
Anand’s influence extended beyond cinema. He was politically active, campaigning against the Internal Emergency imposed by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the 1970s. He even formed his political party, the National Party of India, which he later disbanded.
Dev Anand’s contribution to Indian cinema is immeasurable. His films are renowned for their memorable music, often created in collaboration with legendary composers and lyricists. Even in his later years, Anand remained a dynamic figure, constantly involved in new projects until his last film, “Chargesheet” (2011). Anand passed away on December 3, 2011, in London, but his legacy as the “Evergreen Star” of Indian cinema endures.
