Amrish Puri

Amrish Puri: A Colossus of Indian Cinema Amrish Puri (1932-2005), a titan of Indian cinema and theatre, left an indelible mark with his prolific career spanning over 450 films. His commanding screen presence and distinctive baritone voice made him a memorable villain, dominating the 1980s and 90s. While renowned for his villainous portrayals in films like Mr. India (Mogambo), Vidhaata, Shakti, and Nagina, Puri's versatility extended to critically acclaimed art-house cinema under directors like Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani. His contribution transcended language barriers; he featured in Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, and Marathi films. Puri’s portrayal of Mogambo in Mr. India remains iconic, arguably one of Indian cinema's greatest villainous performances, reportedly earning him 1 crore, making him the highest-paid villain of his time. He also showcased his comedic timing effectively in films such as Chachi 420. Beyond villainy, Puri garnered three Filmfare Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his nuanced performances in positive roles in films like Phool Aur Kaante, Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, and Virasat. His international recognition came through roles in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Gandhi. Puri’s legacy rests not only on his remarkable filmography but also on his ability to effortlessly transition between roles, establishing him as a versatile and unforgettable actor.