Om Puri: The Brother of Amrish Puri
Amrish Puri, the iconic Indian actor known for his deep, commanding voice and memorable performances, had a brother who was equally talented and influential in his own right. His name was Om Puri, and his life and career were as fascinating as his brother’s. Let’s delve into the life of Om Puri, exploring his background, career, and the impact he had on the Indian film industry.
Early Life and Background
Om Puri was born on October 20, 1940, in Jullundur, Punjab, India. He was the younger brother of Amrish Puri, who was already an established actor in the film industry. Om’s parents were both teachers, which instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and education. He completed his education at Punjab University, where he earned a degree in English Literature.
Acting Career
Om Puri’s acting career began in the 1960s, and he quickly gained recognition for his performances in both theater and film. He made his film debut in 1969 with the movie “Ghar”, directed by Kundan Shah. Over the years, he worked in various genres, including drama, comedy, and even action.
One of his most notable roles was in the 1975 film “Sargam”, where he played the character of a music teacher. His performance was widely praised, and it marked the beginning of his successful career in the film industry. Puri went on to star in several critically acclaimed films, such as “Mirch Masala” (1987), “Masoom” (1984), and “Draupadi” (1989).
Om Puri’s versatility as an actor was evident in his ability to portray a wide range of characters. He could effortlessly switch between playing a villain, a hero, or a comic character. His performances were always marked by his intense dedication to his roles, which made him a favorite among both critics and audiences.
International Recognition
Om Puri’s talent did not go unnoticed internationally. He received several awards and nominations for his performances in international films. In 1988, he won the Best Actor Award at the Berlin International Film Festival for his role in the film “Mirch Masala”. He also received the Best Actor Award at the National Film Awards for his performance in the 1990 film “Agni Mattha”.
Puri’s international success continued with his role in the 1991 film “City of Joy”, directed by Roland Joff茅. The film was a critical and commercial success, and it further cemented his reputation as a talented actor. He also starred in the 1993 film “The Prophecy”, directed by Greg Stratan, which was a significant step in his international career.
Political Activism
Om Puri was not only a talented actor but also a passionate activist. He was deeply involved in social and political issues, and he used his platform to advocate for various causes. He was a member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and actively participated in various protests and movements.
In 2007, Puri was appointed as the chairperson of the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), a position he held until 2010. During his tenure, he worked to promote Indian cinema and support new talent. He also founded the Om Puri Foundation, which aims to provide scholarships to underprivileged students and support the arts.
Personal Life and Legacy
Om Puri was married to actress Nandita Das, and they had a daughter together. He was known for his humble nature and his dedication to his family. Despite his success in the film industry, Puri remained grounded and focused on his passion for acting and activism.
Om Puri passed away on January 4, 2017, after a brief illness. His death was a great loss to the Indian film industry and to the world of cinema. However, his legacy lives on through his memorable performances and his commitment to social causes.
Table: Om Puri’s Notable Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1969 | Ghar | Unknown |
| 1975 | Sargam | Music Teacher |
