Death anniversary: Dev Anand was a true symbol of Indian cinema
An iconic figure in Indian film, Dev Anand was a dynamic actor, producer, and director. Renowned for his sleek appearance, easy charisma, and flawless performance, Anand left a legacy that still enthralls audiences today.
Here are a few of this legend’s most famous films that not only shaped his career but also had a big impact on Indian cinema as we honor him.
1. The 1965 Guide
The book by R.K. Narayan served as the inspiration for one of the best Indian films, “Guide,” which was directed by Vijay Anand, the brother of Dev Anand. Dev Anand portrayed Raju, a tour guide who later became a spiritual leader, in this movie. Together with Waheeda Rehman, his subtle performance worked its magic on film. The movie, which is now regarded as one of Dev Anand’s most cherished and highly regarded creations, examined themes of love, independence, and spiritual enlightenment. The song “Aaj Phir Jeene Ki Tamanna Hai” and the film’s soundtrack, which was created by S.D. Burman, have left a lasting impression on generations.
2. Baazi (1951)
Dev Anand was first established as the charming anti-hero of Hindi cinema in the movie “Baazi.” Anand portrayed a disobedient young man who becomes caught in a world of crime and moral quandaries in this Guru Dutt-directed movie. In addition to Dev Anand’s captivating performance, “Baazi” is famous for its songs, particularly “Mere Labon Pe Chhipe,” which turned into a love hymn.
3. In 1963, Tere Ghar Ke Samne
‘Tere Ghar Ke Samne’ was a lighthearted romantic comedy that demonstrated Dev Anand’s impeccable comedic timing. Anand’s depiction of a young guy who falls in love with his neighbor over family opposition was adorable, especially when paired with the always beautiful Nutan. Anand’s flexibility was shown in the very successful movie, which went beyond his previously recognized tough parts. “Tere Ghar Ke Samne,” one of its charming melodies, never fails to make listeners grin.
4. Mera Naam, Johny (1970)
One of the first movies to promote the “supercop” genre in Indian cinema was “Johny Mera Naam.” Dev Anand portrayed a suave, tough investigator who wants to get retribution for his parents’ deaths. Action, tension, and a fantastic music were all abundant in the movie, with hits like “Pal Bhar Ke Liye Koi Hume Pyaar Kar Le” hitting the charts. Fans of action and thriller movies adored Dev Anand because of his depiction of a strong but sensitive hero.
5. Pani Kala (1958)
Dev Anand played a guy who was falsely convicted of murder and given a life sentence in a distant jail in “Kala Pani.” The film’s premise centered on subjects that were progressive for their time: social justice and corruption. Madhubala, who never goes out of style, plays the major part in the movie as well. One of the well-known songs from the film “Acha ji chalo mai haari” is still a favorite among viewers.
6. In 1971, Hare Rama Hare Krishna
Taking on the burgeoning counterculture movement of the 1970s, Dev Anand’s directorial debut ‘Hare Rama Hare Krishna’ explored subjects such as drug usage and the generational divide. In addition to its classic song “Phoolon Ka Taron Ka,” the film’s representation of hippie lifestyle and breakout performance by Zeenat Aman contributed to its enormous success.
More than simply a movie star, Dev Anand was a trailblazer who influenced Indian filmmaking. He not only amused but also served as an inspiration to other performers and directors with his ageless appeal, commanding presence on screen, and varied roles in films such as “Jewel Thief,” “CID,” “Taxi Driver,” and “Paying Guest,” among others.
Over the course of his six-decade career, Dev Anand worked on more over 100 films and received several important accolades, including the Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke accolades.
On December 3, 2011, while undergoing a medical examination in his room at The Washington Mayfair Hotel in London, Dev Anand had a heart attack and died at the age of 88. ‘Chargesheet’ was his most recent feature, which he both produced and directed.
