Remembering Pran: The Versatile Gentleman Villain of Indian Cinema
A Tribute to Pran Krishan Sikand
Irrfan Khan once remarked, "Pran Saab's career is truly one of a kind and unparalleled." Reflecting on the remarkable journey of Pran Krishan Sikand, one cannot help but admire his incredible range as an actor. After debuting as a hero, Pran dominated the film industry as a villain for nearly 45 years. In the 1960s and 70s, the name Pran became synonymous with villainy, making it rare to find a child named after him. However, in 1967, the innovative filmmaker Manoj Kumar cast him in a sympathetic role as Malang Chachcha in 'Upkar,' marking a significant shift in his career.
After years of being typecast as the antagonist, audiences embraced Pran as a good character. He continued to portray both heroes and villains in films like 'Adhikar' (1971) and 'Zanjeer' (1973), showcasing his versatility.
Shatrughan Sinha, who also transitioned from villain to hero, recalls canceling his trip to Patna to attend Pran's funeral on July 12, 2013. "Pranji was a true institution, inspiring countless actors, including myself. His passing was a significant loss," he stated.
At the funeral, Sinha expressed disappointment at the low turnout from the film industry, feeling that someone who dedicated 70 years to cinema deserved a grand farewell. He reminisced about Satyajit Ray's condolence meeting, noting the stark similarity in attendance.
Sinha shared how Pran influenced him personally, recalling how he emulated Pran's hairstyle from 'Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai' during his college days. They later collaborated on films like 'Ganga Teri Paani Amrit' and 'Buniyaad.' Sinha paid homage to Pran's unique mannerisms in 'Mere Apne,' highlighting his extensive filmography of nearly 400 films.
Raza Murad, another actor who made the switch from villain to hero, regarded Pran as a role model. He admired Pran's portrayal of Kehar Singh in 'Shaheed,' where he depicted a ruthless prisoner who ultimately experiences a change of heart. Murad emphasized Pran's ability to evoke deep emotions without overt displays of sentiment.
Gulshan Grover, known for his villainous roles, credited Pran for paving the way for actors like him. "Pran Saab taught me the essence of professionalism and dedication. He elevated the status of the 'bad man' in Bollywood, allowing many of us to thrive in our careers," Grover remarked.
When asked about his favorite performance by Pran, Grover mentioned 'Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai,' praising the subtlety of Pran's acting. He expressed his admiration for Pran's work, having watched many of his films and even owning VHS tapes of his performances.
Raj Babbar, who also transitioned from villain to hero, spoke of Pran's influence on his career. He admired Pran's ability to portray both good and evil characters with equal skill, noting how Pran's dedication to his craft inspired him.
Asha Parekh, who starred alongside Pran in numerous films, described him as a pillar of the industry. She recalled his duality as both a villain and a good Samaritan, emphasizing his entertaining nature off-screen and his commitment to his roles.
Waheeda Rehman shared a lesser-known fact about Pran, revealing his ticklish nature. She fondly remembered their time together on set, highlighting his charm and dedication to his work.
Despite their busy schedules, Rehman noted that Pran always made time for his friends, showcasing his caring nature. She reflected on their collaborations, emphasizing his transformation from a villain to a beloved character in films.
Pran's legacy in Indian cinema is profound, with many iconic songs associated with his characters, such as 'Kasme vaade pyar wafa' from 'Upkar' and 'Yaari hai imaan mera' from 'Zanjeer.' His contributions to the industry remain unmatched, and he is deeply missed.