Amrish Puri: The Versatile Actor
Amrish Puri, a name that resonates with the golden era of Indian cinema, is often mentioned in the same breath as his brother, Om Puri. While Om Puri was known for his intense and realistic performances, Amrish Puri had a unique charm that set him apart. In this article, we delve into the life and career of Amrish Puri, exploring his journey from a small town in Rajasthan to becoming one of the most iconic actors in Indian cinema.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 3, 1932, in the small town of Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Amrish Puri was the younger brother of Om Puri. His father, Kishanlal Puri, was a schoolteacher, and his mother, Ramlal Puri, was a homemaker. Amrish Puri completed his education at the Jodhpur Public School and later joined the Indian Air Force, where he served for a brief period.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1932 | Born in Jodhpur, Rajasthan |
| 1950 | Joined the Indian Air Force |
| 1954 | Discharged from the Indian Air Force |
| 1956 | Debut in cinema with the film ‘Azaad’ |
Debut and Early Career
After his discharge from the Indian Air Force, Amrish Puri decided to pursue a career in acting. In 1956, he made his debut in the film ‘Azaad,’ directed by Bimal Roy. The film was a moderate success, but it was his performance in the 1959 film ‘Naya Daur’ that brought him to the forefront of the industry. His portrayal of the character ‘Rajaram’ in the film was widely appreciated, and he began to gain recognition as a talented actor.
Iconic Roles and Achievements
Amrish Puri’s career was marked by a string of memorable roles in both Hindi and regional films. One of his most iconic roles was as the villainous ‘Ravana’ in the 1989 epic film ‘Ramayana: The Epic.’ His portrayal of the demon king was so terrifying that it became a part of Indian folklore. Other notable roles include ‘Rajaram’ in ‘Naya Daur,’ ‘Rajkumar’ in ‘Dhund,’ and ‘Rajesh’ in ‘Ek Duuje Ke Liye.’ His versatility as an actor allowed him to essay a wide range of characters, from the villainous to the heroic.
| Year | Film | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1959 | Naya Daur | Rajaram |
| 1961 | Dhund | Rajkumar |
| 1989 | Ramayana: The Epic | Ravana |
| 1991 | Ek Duuje Ke Liye | Rajesh |
Personal Life and Legacy
Amrish Puri was married to Shobha Puri, and the couple had two sons, Aditya and Akshay. He was a man of simple tastes and enjoyed spending time with his family. Despite his success in the film industry, he remained grounded and humble. Amrish Puri passed away on July 12, 2000, after suffering from a heart attack. His death was a huge loss to the Indian film industry, and he is still remembered for his unforgettable performances.
