Biography of Balraj Sahni:
Balraj Sahni (1 May 1913 – 13 April 1973) was a prominent Indian film actor and writer, known for his significant contributions to Hindi cinema.
Here’s a brief biography of Balraj Sahni:
Early Life:
Balraj Sahni was born on 1 May 1913, in Rawalpindi, British India (now in Pakistan). He came from a progressive family with roots in Rawalpindi.
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| Biography of Balraj Sahni |
Balraj Sahni’s Education and Career:
Sahni studied at Government College in Lahore and later at the Cambridge University in England. He was involved in the Indian independence movement and worked as a teacher, promoting social and educational causes.
Acting Career:
Balraj Sahni entered the world of acting, making his film debut in the Punjabi film “Pind Di Kudi” in 1945. He gained recognition for his performances in films like “Do Bigha Zamin” (1953), directed by Bimal Roy. His portrayal of a farmer struggling against economic hardships in the film earned him critical acclaim.
Balraj Sahni’s Notable Films:
Balraj Sahni acted in a wide range of films, including classics like “Kabuliwala” (1961), “Waqt” (1965), “Neelkamal” (1968), and “Gharonda” (1977). His roles often reflected social and humanistic themes.
Social Activism:
Sahni was not only an actor but also a socially conscious individual. He was associated with the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA) and was known for his commitment to social causes. His involvement in progressive and socially relevant cinema was reflective of his broader worldview.
Literary Contributions:
Balraj Sahni was also a writer and authored several works, including the book “Mera Pakistani Safarnama,” which documented his experiences during a visit to Pakistan.
Personal Life of Balraj Sahni:
Balraj Sahni was married to Damayanti Sahni, and they had two children, a son named Parikshit Sahni (also an actor) and a daughter named Shabnam.
Death: Balraj Sahni passed away on 13 April 1973, at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances and contributions to Indian cinema.
Balraj Sahni’s legacy in Indian cinema is remembered for his versatile acting, dedication to social causes, and the ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity.