Early Life and Career Beginnings
Hiralal Thakur, born on March 14, 1912, in Lahore (present-day Pakistan) to Parvati Devi and Sundardas Thakur, was enthused about acting from childhood. He began his career in silent films, transitioned to talkies, and later moved to color films, becoming a versatile actor across different eras of Indian cinema.
Auspicious Presence in Films
Filmmakers considered it auspicious to have Hiralal Thakur in their films. Throughout his career, he featured in over 250 films, becoming a significant figure in the industry.
First Film and Early Success
Hiralal’s first film was “Daughter of Today” (1928), directed by Shankradev Arya. Despite financial issues that delayed its completion by three years, this film was significant as it laid the foundation for the film industry in Lahore, later known as Lollywood. Arya was assisted by A.R. Kardar, who later became a famous director and cast Hiralal in the super hit film “Safdar Jung” (1930).
Diverse Roles and Genres
From 1928 to 1948, Hiralal worked in 20 films, spanning various genres including stunt, mythological, and fantasy films. His presence was considered a lucky charm by filmmakers, leading to numerous collaborations.
Transition to Different Film Industries
Hiralal moved through different film industries in pre-Partition India. He worked in Calcutta with New Theatres and collaborated with Hemchandra Chunder on films like “Wapas” (1943) and “Meri Bahen” (1944).
Personal Life and Move to Bombay
In 1945, Hiralal married Darpan Rani. Post-Partition, he moved to Bombay via Calcutta. Fluent in Punjabi, Urdu, Hindi, and English, he had no trouble adapting to the film industry in Bombay.
Bollywood Breakthrough
Hiralal’s first chance in Bollywood came in 1951 when Bhagwan Das cast him in “Badal” opposite Madhubala. This marked the beginning of many superhit films in Hindi cinema, including “Aurat,” “Jew’s Girl,” “Gumnaam,” “Amar Prem,” “Kalia,” and “Hum Sab Chor Hain.”
Punjabi Films and Later Career
Hiralal also appeared in Punjabi films like “Mera Punjab” (1940) and “Dhyanu Bhagat” (1978). Towards the end of his career, he took on minor roles in films like “Katilon Ke Katil” (1981).
Freedom Struggle and Activism
Before entering films, Hiralal participated in the freedom struggle alongside Bhagat Singh. He became an activist of the Indian National Congress at the age of 14 and later joined Lala Lajpat Rai and Bhagat Singh in their efforts.
Legacy and Family
Hiralal Thakur passed away in 1982, leaving behind a significant legacy in Indian cinema. He had six sons, one of whom, Inder Kumar, was seen in the film “Nadiya Ke Paar.”
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