Dilip Kumar- A trip down memory lane

Dilip Kumar's under rated films

Yesterday Dilip Kumar celebrated his 98 birthday, while all of us will agree that the image of Prince Salim watching the theatrics of Anarkali while proclaiming “Jab Pyaar Kiya to Darna kya,” is still fresh in our minds and refuse to fade with time. We still decided to have a look at the thespian’s lesser known films and roles that have been relegated to the background due to their progressive and forward themes and have been declared duds at the box office.  

The movies listed below are a must watch for all those who are old movie buffs and are fans of the golden era of the film industry. The movies are also highly recommended for students of film making as well amateurs interested in history of film making in India.

Amar directed by Mehboob Khan was a love triangle with Dilip Kumar, Nimmi and Madhubala playing the lead roles. The film is the first film to talk about the idea of an anti hero or the hero with a flaw. For all those who think that Darr and Shahrukh Khan introduced the idea of an anti hero in Bollywood, watch this movie and they will end up realizing that they were indeed wrong. 

Jogan was a film about spiritual awakening and physical desires. The film essayed the story of a Jogan, performed with élan by Nargis. Dilip Kumar played the role of the lovelorn hero. The film is considered one of the earliest films to center round a female protagonist and also to discuss issues of sexual awakening.

Leader was Dilip’s tribute to the ideals of Jawahar Lal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. Apart from corruption and politics the film was a novel attempt that talked about the profession of journalism. The film underlined the importance of Journalists in a democracy, a theme that was new at that point in time but is very relevant in the current scenario. The film has beautiful music and songs as a bonus for all those who enjoy the melodies of a bygone era.

Footpath was a film that examined the theme of illegal trade and black marketing of medicines. The mega star beautifully captures the nuances of Noshu’s character.  From being a criminal to the guild ridden common man caught in a pandemic, the character captures the acting capability of the star superbly.  With the Covid 19 Pandemic raging the world many people would be able to relate with situation and characters in the movie. 

Shaheed was a 1948 film that revolved around the life of a freedom fighter, played to perfection by Dilip Kumar. The film cast Kamini Kaushal opposite the mega star, which in his own words, “was inspired to play the role owing to the nationalist movement and was very much in sync with the character.”

So if your Monthly subscriptions for OTT platforms has already expired and you find yourself in a limbo, regarding your weekend plans, curl up in a blanket with a steaming cup of coffee and enjoy these classics on YouTube.