Bollywood’s favourite father,uncle,grandfather

Through the ’60s to the ’80s,he was seen in hit films like Guddi,Parichay,Bawarchi,Namak Haraam,Abhimaan,Aandhi,Chitchor,Naram Garam and Khoon Bhari Maang. His most memorable role,however,was that of “Rahim Chacha” in Sholay. Hangal was also part of several films featuring Rajesh Khanna.

“He brought his theatre discipline to the film sets. We used to call him ‘Humble Sahib’ instead of ‘Hangal Sahib’,” said filmmaker Subhash Ghai,who worked with him in Krodhi,Meri Jung and Khalnayak.

During his later years,Hangal was seen in films like Lagaan and Paheli. “He will always be a reference point for me when I tell actors to perform naturally,” said Ashutosh Gowariker,who directed him in Lagaan. Hangal’s last appearance on screen was on Colors’ show,Madhubala.

News of Hangal’s ill-health first surfaced in January last year,when his son,Vijay,said he was unable to pay his medical bills. The Cine and TV Artistes’ Association,the Maharashtra government and some actors had come forward to help him financially.