Indian movie stars born in 1905
Here are 6 famous actors from India were born in 1905:
Pankaj Mullick
Pankaj Mullick (May 10, 1905 Kolkata-February 19, 1978 Kolkata) a.k.a. Pankaj Kumar Mullick or Shri Pankaj Kumar Mullick was an Indian singer, actor and film score composer.
He is considered one of the pioneers of Indian film music and is credited with introducing the use of classical music in the Hindi film industry. Starting his career in the 1930s, Mullick went on to compose music for over 100 films in several languages including Bengali, Hindi, and Tamil.
Apart from his work in film music, Mullick was also a renowned singer and was trained in classical music under stalwarts like Ustad Faiyaz Khan and Ustad Abdul Karim Khan. He had a distinctive voice and style of singing that endeared him to audiences across the country.
In addition to his work in music, Mullick was also a respected actor, having appeared in several Bengali films. He was also involved in the Indian independence movement and composed patriotic songs that became anthems during the struggle for freedom.
Today, Pankaj Mullick is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of Indian film music, and his contributions to the field have been recognized with several awards and honors.
Mullick's interest in music began at a young age, and he began learning from his father and uncle, both of whom were musicians. He went on to receive classical training in music and was honored with the title Sangeet Visharad by the Bhatkhande Music Institute in Lucknow.
Mullick's career in the film industry began in 1931 when he was offered the role of music director for the Bengali film, Dena Paona. His work on this film was well-received, and he went on to compose music for some of the most iconic films of his time. Some of his notable works include the music for the film Mukti (1937), which is considered one of the first Indian films to use playback singing.
In addition to his work in film music, Mullick was a prolific composer of devotional and patriotic songs. He composed the famous patriotic song “Door Hato O Duniya Walo” which became synonymous with the Indian independence movement.
Mullick's contributions to Indian music have been recognized with several honors, including the Padma Shri in 1970 and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1974. He passed away in 1978, leaving behind a rich legacy of music that continues to inspire generations of Indian musicians.
Apart from his musical achievements, Pankaj Mullick was also an accomplished academic. He served as the principal of the Bengal Music College and was a senior staff member of the Rabindra Bharati University's music department. Mullick also authored books on music and was a respected authority on the subject.
Mullick's contribution to the Indian film industry was not limited to music and acting. He was also instrumental in the development of the Indian Academy of Music, which aimed to promote Indian classical music. He worked with other musicians and scholars to develop a curriculum for the academy, which he hoped would help preserve and promote Indian music.
Throughout his career, Mullick collaborated with some of the most talented artists of his time, including K.L. Saigal, Hemant Kumar, and Satyajit Ray. His songs continue to be popular to this day, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music lovers in India and beyond.
In recognition of his immense contribution to Indian music and culture, the government of West Bengal has instituted the Pankaj Mullick Music and Art Foundation, which seeks to promote the arts and empower artists in the region.
In addition to his numerous accomplishments as a musician and composer, Pankaj Mullick was also a proficient actor. He appeared in several Bengali films throughout his career, including Grihadaha (1947), in which he played the lead role. Mullick's acting skills were widely recognized, and he was awarded the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actor in 1970 for his performance in the film Nishi Padma (1970). The film, which was directed by filmmaker Bimal Roy, remains a classic of Indian cinema today.
Aside from his work in music and film, Mullick was also actively involved in politics and social issues. He was a staunch supporter of the Indian independence movement and composed several patriotic songs that became anthems for the cause. He was also involved in various social and cultural organizations and served as president of the Indian People's Theatre Association (IPTA) in Kolkata.
Throughout his life, Mullick remained deeply committed to promoting Indian classical music and preserving the country's rich cultural heritage. He worked tirelessly to create opportunities for young artists and musicians, and his contributions to the field have been widely recognized both in India and abroad. Today, he is remembered as a pioneering figure who transformed the Indian film industry and helped shape the course of Indian music history.
Birendra Krishna Bhadra
Birendra Krishna Bhadra (August 4, 1905 Kolkata-November 3, 1991 Kolkata) was an Indian actor, playwright, theatre director and presenter.
He is best known for his iconic recitation of Mahishasura Mardini, an hour-long radio program broadcasted every year during the Hindu festival of Durga Puja. Bhadra's mesmerizing voice and vivid descriptions of the goddess Durga's triumph over the demon Mahishasura is still fondly remembered and listened to by millions of people worldwide. He was also a prolific writer and director who had written over 200 plays and directed numerous theatrical productions. Bhadra received several accolades for his contribution to the Indian theatre and radio, including the Padma Shri in 1972. He passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a rich legacy for future generations to appreciate.
Born in Kolkata (then Calcutta), Bhadra started his career in the early 1920s as an actor in the Bengali theatre scene. He quickly rose to fame for his convincing portrayals of complex characters and became a household name in Kolkata. In the 1930s, he transitioned to radio and gained immense popularity for his unique style of recitation that combined music, poetry, and drama. His recitation of Mahishasura Mardini became a cultural phenomenon and continues to be an essential part of the Durga Puja celebrations in Kolkata.
Aside from his work as an actor and presenter, Bhadra was also a dedicated social worker and philanthropist. He actively worked towards the empowerment of women and children and supported several charitable organizations. In recognition of his contributions to society, he was awarded the prestigious Rabindra Puraskar in 1981.
Bhadra's legacy has inspired several generations of artists and continues to be a source of inspiration for many. His contribution to the Indian culture and entertainment industry will forever be cherished and celebrated.
Birendra Krishna Bhadra came from a family of cultural enthusiasts, and his love for the arts was nurtured from a young age. His father, Haridas Bhadra, was a poet and a prominent member of the Indian National Congress, who played an instrumental role in India's struggle for independence. His mother, Swarnalata Devi, was a singer who was affiliated with the Bengal Music School. Bhadra's exposure to literature, music, and activism influenced his artistic sensibilities and instilled in him a deep sense of social responsibility.
In addition to his work as an actor and presenter, Bhadra was also a skilled writer and poet. He authored numerous plays, poems, and essays that reflected the socio-political realities of contemporary India. His plays often focused on the struggles of the working class and marginalized communities and highlighted the need for social justice and equality. Bhadra was also a gifted director who brought innovation and experimentation to the Bengali theatre scene. His productions were known for their elaborate sets, impressive use of lighting and sound, and powerful performances.
Despite his immense success, Bhadra remained humble and grounded throughout his life. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help those in need. He was a beloved figure in Kolkata who was revered for his artistic talents and his commitment to making the world a better place.
In addition to his contributions to the arts and social causes, Bhadra was also a linguist who was fluent in several languages, including Bengali, Hindi, and English. He used his linguistic skills to translate and adapt several works of literature, including Shakespearean plays and modernist poetry. Bhadra's translations were celebrated for their accuracy and faithfulness to the original texts while also capturing the nuances and spirit of the language. His commitment to language and literature has inspired several scholars and aspiring writers across the country.
Bhadra's impact on Indian society and culture is undeniable, as he brought a unique blend of artistry and activism to every aspect of his life. His legacy continues to be celebrated in Kolkata with annual recitations of Mahishasura Mardini during Durga Puja, and his plays and productions remain popular with theatre enthusiasts. Birendra Krishna Bhadra remains an iconic figure in Indian theatre and radio and continues to inspire future generations of artists, writers, and social activists.
Bipin Gupta
Bipin Gupta (August 21, 1905 Meerut-September 9, 1981 Kolkata) also known as Bepin Gupta was an Indian actor.
He was born in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India and started his acting career in the early 1930s. Gupta acted in over 200 Hindi and Bengali films throughout his career, and was well-known for his supporting roles. He worked with many famous directors and actors, including Uttam Kumar and Suchitra Sen.
Apart from acting, Gupta was also a prolific writer and wrote several novels, short stories, and plays in Bengali. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1971 for his contribution to the field of arts and literature.
Gupta passed away on September 9, 1981 in Kolkata, West Bengal, leaving behind a legacy as an accomplished actor and writer.
Gupta grew up in a family that valued education and culture, and he developed an interest in literature and the arts from a young age. He graduated from the University of Calcutta with a degree in English literature and later pursued a career as a journalist before transitioning to acting.
Gupta's acting career spanned several decades and he appeared in a wide range of films, from comedies to dramas to historical epics. He was known for his ability to bring depth and nuance to his supporting roles, and his performances were often praised by critics.
In addition to his work in film, Gupta was also an accomplished stage actor and director. He founded a theatre company in Kolkata and produced and directed several plays throughout his career.
Gupta's writing was also highly regarded, both in India and abroad. His work explored themes of social justice, humanism, and the complexity of human relationships. Several of his novels and plays were adapted for film, and he received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to literature.
Today, Gupta is remembered as one of the most versatile and talented actors and writers of his time, and his contributions to Indian cinema and literature continue to inspire new generations of artists and thinkers.
Gupta's passion for literature and the arts led him to become a key figure in the cultural scene of Kolkata. He was an active member of the Indian People's Theatre Association and worked closely with other prominent writers and artists of his time, including Satyajit Ray and Ritwik Ghatak. Gupta also served as the president of the West Bengal branch of the All India Youth Federation, a political organization that advocated for social justice and national independence.
Despite his success in the arts and politics, Gupta remained committed to his roots and often explored themes related to his upbringing in his work. Many of his plays and novels were set in rural Uttar Pradesh and highlighted the struggles of the working class.
In addition to his Padma Bhushan, Gupta received several other honors during his lifetime, including the prestigious Rabindra Puraskar for his novel "Ankoor" and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his contributions to theatre.
Overall, Gupta's life and work demonstrate a deep commitment to social justice and humanism, and his contributions to Indian culture continue to be celebrated and studied to this day.
Aside from being a versatile actor and accomplished writer, Bipin Gupta was also a skilled musician and had a deep love for music. He played the tabla, harmonium, and flute, and often incorporated musical elements into his theatre productions. Gupta believed that art in all its forms had the power to bring people together and inspire positive change. He was also a strong advocate for education and worked to promote literacy and access to education for all members of society. Gupta's legacy continues to inspire people from all walks of life, and his commitment to social justice and humanism remains an important part of Indian cultural history.
Dhiraj Bhattacharya
Dhiraj Bhattacharya (November 5, 1905 East Bengal-November 5, 2014) was an Indian actor.
He began his career as a stage actor in Kolkata and later moved on to the film industry. He appeared in over 60 films including notable ones like Devdas (1955), Madhumati (1958), and Jalsaghar (1958). Bhattacharya was known for his versatile acting skills and played a variety of roles throughout his career.
Apart from acting, Bhattacharya was also a renowned theatre director and playwright. He founded his own theatre company called "Bahurupee" in the 1940s and staged numerous plays in Kolkata. Bhattacharya was also a respected teacher of acting and many of his students went on to become successful actors.
In 1980, Bhattacharya was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his contribution to Indian theatre. He continued acting and directing theatre productions well into his 90s and was regarded as one of the legends of Indian theatre and cinema. Dhiraj Bhattacharya passed away on his 109th birthday in 2014.
Bhattacharya was born in East Bengal, which is present-day Bangladesh. He was part of a family with a rich cultural background and his father was a music composer. Bhattacharya grew up listening to music and developed a deep appreciation for it. He even composed a few songs himself and was known to sing on occasion.
Bhattacharya's acting career began in the 1930s when he started performing on stage in Kolkata. He quickly gained recognition for his acting talent and was soon offered roles in films. Bhattacharya made his film debut in the Bengali film "Bilwamangal" (1932) and went on to act in many Bengali and Hindi films.
Apart from acting, Bhattacharya was also an accomplished theatre director and playwright. He founded the theatre company "Bahurupee" in 1947 and staged numerous plays in Kolkata. Bhattacharya believed in promoting regional language and culture through theatre and his plays dealt with a range of issues, from social to political.
Bhattacharya was also a respected teacher of acting and had many students, including the renowned actor Soumitra Chatterjee. Bhattacharya's contribution to Indian theatre was recognized when he was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1980.
Bhattacharya continued to act and direct theatre productions well into his 90s. He was known for his energy and enthusiasm and was regarded as one of the legends of Indian theatre and cinema. Bhattacharya passed away on his 109th birthday in 2014, leaving behind a rich legacy of theatre and cinema.
Throughout his long career, Dhiraj Bhattacharya acted in over 60 films and gained critical acclaim for his performances in movies like Devdas (1955), Madhumati (1958) and Jalsaghar (1958). In addition to his work in films, he remained an active figure in the world of theatre, working tirelessly to promote Indian theatre and culture. He was a pioneer in the field of Bengali theatre and his troupe, Bahurupee, is still considered one of the most respected theatre companies in India today.
Bhattacharya's contribution to Indian theatre was not limited to his work as an actor and director. He was also a respected teacher of acting and many of his students went on to become successful actors in their own right. In fact, one of his most famous students was the renowned Bengali actor, Soumitra Chatterjee, who went on to appear in 14 films by the iconic director Satyajit Ray.
Despite his advanced age, Bhattacharya maintained his energy and enthusiasm for his work until the very end of his life. He remained active in both the theatre and film industries, and was widely regarded as one of the greatest legends of Indian cinema and theatre. His contribution to the world of art and culture has left a lasting impact on the country, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and performers.
Bhattacharya was married to the renowned Bengali actress, Molly Sarkar, and the couple had a son named Shakuntala Barua, who also went on to become an actor. Bhattacharya's family was deeply involved in the arts, and his wife and son appeared in many of his productions.Bhattacharya was known for his commitment to promoting Bengali language and culture through his work in theatre and cinema. He believed that theatre was a powerful medium for bringing about social change, and many of his plays dealt with issues like poverty, education, and social inequality.In addition to his work on stage and screen, Bhattacharya was also an avid reader and writer. He wrote several articles and essays on theatre, and his book "Theatre in the East" is considered a seminal work on the history of Bengali theatre.Bhattacharya's dedication to his craft and his contributions to Indian theatre and cinema have earned him a place among the most iconic and celebrated figures in the world of art and culture. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors, directors, and playwrights, and his impact on Indian theatre and cinema will be felt for years to come.
Kanu Banerjee
Kanu Banerjee (June 20, 1905 Jodhpur-January 27, 1983) otherwise known as Kanu Bannerjee, Kanu Banerji or Kanu Bandyopadhyay was an Indian actor.
He is best known for his role as the father, Harihar Ray, in Satyajit Ray's classic film, Pather Panchali. Born in Jodhpur, Banerjee joined the Indian People's Theatre Association (IPTA) in Bombay in the 1940s. He acted in several Hindi and Bengali films, and worked with renowned directors such as Bimal Roy and Ritwik Ghatak. In his career spanning over three decades, Banerjee appeared in more than 80 films. He was also a stage actor, and had a long association with the Shakespearean theatre company, "Shakespeareana". Banerjee was awarded the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film, Apanjan (1968). The Government of India also honored him with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in India, in 1974 for his contribution to Indian cinema.
In addition to his successful acting career, Kanu Banerjee was also a prominent member of the Communist Party of India. He actively participated in political movements and even went to jail during the Quit India Movement in 1942. Banerjee was known for his simplicity and dedication to his craft. He never compromised on his principles and always stood up for his beliefs. Despite facing financial difficulties, he continued to work in films and theatre till the end of his life. He passed away in Kolkata in 1983, leaving behind a rich legacy in Indian cinema and theatre. Today, he is remembered as one of the finest actors of the Indian film industry and his contribution to Indian cinema continues to inspire budding actors and filmmakers alike.
Kanu Banerjee was born to a wealthy family in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. His family eventually moved to Kolkata (then Calcutta), where he developed an early love for theatre and acting. He was particularly drawn to the work of Shakespeare and performed in many of the Bard's plays throughout his career.
Banerjee began his film career in 1947 with the Hindi film "Nai Duniya." He quickly gained popularity in both Hindi and Bengali films, becoming known for his nuanced performances and natural acting style. His breakthrough role came in Satyajit Ray's 1955 film, "Pather Panchali," which is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.
In addition to his acting career, Banerjee was an active member of the Communist Party of India. He believed in the power of cinema as a tool for social change and often used his platform as an actor to raise awareness about social issues. He was particularly passionate about workers' rights and was a vocal advocate for the labor movement.
Banerjee's legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers in India and beyond. His dedication to his craft, his passion for social justice, and his commitment to his principles make him a beloved figure in Indian cinema and a role model for aspiring artists everywhere.
Throughout his career, Kanu Banerjee worked with some of the most respected directors of his time. In addition to Satyajit Ray, he acted in films directed by Bimal Roy, Ritwik Ghatak, and Tapan Sinha, among many others. His performances in films like "Kanchenjungha" (1962), "Chhinnamul" (1950), and "Apanjan" (1968) are still celebrated today.
One notable aspect of Banerjee's acting style was his ability to convey emotion through his eyes. He was known for his expressive face and his ability to subtly convey a range of emotions without relying on dialogue. This was particularly evident in his role as the father in "Pather Panchali," where he delivered a powerful performance despite having few lines of dialogue.
In addition to his work in cinema and theatre, Banerjee also wrote extensively about acting and drama. He authored several books, including "Abhinaya Darpana," which is considered a seminal text on the art of acting. He also taught drama and mentored many aspiring actors throughout his career.
Overall, Kanu Banerjee was a talented and respected actor who made a significant contribution to Indian cinema. His dedication to his craft and his commitment to social justice continue to inspire new generations of artists in India and beyond.
Mazhar Khan
Mazhar Khan (February 5, 1905 Dhar-September 24, 1950) was an Indian actor.
He was born in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh, India in 1905. Mazhar Khan started his acting career in the 1920s and worked in over 70 films in his career, many of which were silent films. He was known for his roles as the villain in many films including 'Amar', 'Anmol Ghadi', and 'Badi Bahen'.
Apart from acting, Mazhar Khan was also a writer and a filmmaker. He wrote the dialogues for 'Meena Bazaar' and 'Jeet' and even directed a film 'Nadaan' in 1943.
Unfortunately, Mazhar Khan's life was cut short as he passed away at the age of 45 due to a heart attack in 1950. Despite his short life, Mazhar Khan left a lasting impact on Indian cinema with his memorable performances as a villain.
He was also a part of the Indian Independence Movement and had great respect for Mahatma Gandhi. Mazhar Khan was known for his dedication towards his craft and his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters. Some of his other notable films include 'Shahjahan', 'Yateem', and 'Ziddi'. Mazhar Khan's son, Shahrukh Khan, went on to become a successful Bollywood actor in his own right. Today, Mazhar Khan is remembered as one of the greatest actors of the Indian film industry for his contribution to its evolution in the early years.
Mazhar Khan's acting journey began when he moved to Bombay in search of work in the film industry. He initially struggled to find work and had to take up odd jobs before finally landing a role in the film 'Gulbakawali' in 1924. From then on, he worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including K.L. Saigal, Suraiya, and Noor Jehan.
Apart from his work in films, Mazhar Khan was also heavily involved in the theatre scene. He acted in several plays and even formed his own theatre company, which produced plays in both Hindi and Urdu.
Interestingly, Mazhar Khan was not only an actor but was also a wrestler in his youth. He even won several championships and was known for his physical strength and agility.
Mazhar Khan's legacy lives on through his contributions to Indian cinema and his influence on future generations of actors. Despite his untimely death, he remains an inspiration to many and his work continues to be admired and appreciated to this day.
Mazhar Khan was a versatile artist who not only excelled in acting, writing, and directing but was also a skilled musician. He had a deep understanding of Indian classical music and played several instruments. In fact, he composed the music for a movie called 'Basant' in 1942.
Khan was a multi-linguist and fluent in Hindi, Urdu, and English. He was well-known for his wit and humor, and his friends and colleagues admired his sense of humor. He was also a close friend of the renowned poet and lyricist, Sahir Ludhianvi, and the two shared a great bond.
Khan's contribution to Indian cinema was recognized posthumously when he was awarded the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004. This award was a testament to his talent and the impact he had on the industry.
In addition to his artistic contributions, Mazhar Khan was also known for his philanthropy. He was actively involved in social work and was a patron of several charitable organizations. He believed in giving back to society and his selflessness inspired many.
Mazhar Khan's life may have been short, but his artistic and philanthropic contributions continue to inspire many. His legacy remains an important part of Indian cinema's history, and his influence on Bollywood is still felt today.