Pran

Pran: A Titan of Indian Cinema Pran Krishan Sikand, or Pran, (1920-2013), remains an iconic figure in Hindi cinema, celebrated as one of the greatest villains ever. His career, spanning from the 1940s to the 2000s, saw him transition from leading man to a master of negative roles, his intensity leaving a lasting impact. The 1950s and 60s marked the peak of his villainy, his portrayals so powerful they reportedly discouraged parents from naming their children "Pran." Beyond his villainous roles, Pran's versatility extended to supporting and character roles. His filmography boasts over 362 films, including notable leading roles in Khandaan (1942), Pilpili Saheb (1954), and Halaku (1956). His iconic villainous performances include those in Madhumati (1958), Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai (1960), Zanjeer (1973), Don (1978), and Amar Akbar Anthony (1977). Pran's achievements garnered significant recognition. He received three Filmfare Awards for Best Supporting Actor (1967, 1969, 1972) and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1997). Further accolades include the "Villain of the Millennium" award (2000), the Padma Bhushan (2001), and posthumously, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2013), India's highest film honour. His contributions to cinema also earned him a place on CNN's Top 25 Asian actors of all time (2010). Pran's legacy endures as a testament to his exceptional talent and enduring screen presence.