Om Puri: A Multidimensional Actor You Should Know
Om Puri, a name that resonates with the essence of Indian cinema, has left an indelible mark on the silver screen. With a career spanning over four decades, Puri has showcased his versatility as an actor in a variety of roles. Let’s delve into the life and work of this remarkable talent.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Om Puri was born on October 20, 1942, in the small town of Raipur, Madhya Pradesh, India. His father was a schoolteacher, and his mother was a homemaker. Puri’s passion for acting began at a young age, and he pursued his dream by enrolling in the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune.
After completing his studies, Puri made his acting debut in the 1969 film “Ghashiram Kotwal.” However, it was his role in the 1975 film “Manthan” that brought him national acclaim. The film, directed by Shyam Benegal, was a groundbreaking social drama that highlighted the struggles of farmers in India.
Acclaim and Awards
Om Puri’s exceptional performances in various films earned him numerous awards and accolades. Some of his notable awards include the National Film Award for Best Actor for his role in “Aakrosh” (1980), “Mirch Masala” (1987), and “Draupadi” (2000). He also received the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, in 2001.
| Year | Film | Award |
|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Aakrosh | National Film Award for Best Actor |
| 1987 | Mirch Masala | National Film Award for Best Actor |
| 2000 | Draupadi | National Film Award for Best Actor |
| 2001 | Various | Padma Shri |
Notable Roles and Films
Om Puri’s career is filled with memorable roles in both Hindi and regional films. Some of his most notable films include:
-
“Manthan” (1975) – Directed by Shyam Benegal, this film showcased Puri’s ability to portray complex characters.
-
“Aakrosh” (1980) – Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Puri played the role of a police officer who takes on the corrupt system.
-
“Mirch Masala” (1987) – Directed by Sai Paranjpye, this film is a satirical take on the Indian film industry.
-
“Draupadi” (2000) – Directed by Mani Ratnam, Puri played the role of a wise old man who teaches the young protagonist valuable life lessons.
-
“The Namesake” (2006) – Directed by Mira Nair, Puri played the role of Ashoke Ganguli, the protagonist’s father.
International Recognition
Om Puri’s talent did not go unnoticed internationally. He received critical acclaim for his performances in English films such as “My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done” (2009) and “Slumdog Millionaire” (2008). His role as the father in “Slumdog Millionaire” earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Personal Life and Legacy
Om Puri was married to actress Nandita Das, and they had a daughter, Ira. Puri was known for his simplicity and humility, and he remained close to his roots throughout his life. He passed away on January 4, 2017, after suffering a heart attack, but
