India’s first crossover actor and Bollywood veteran, Om Puri passed away on the 6th of January 2016. As an actor, Om Puri’s work has always enjoyed critical acclaim not only in Indian cinema but also Pakistani, British and American cinema. He might easily have been the first Indian actor to work on as many Hollywood projects. Perhaps one of the most recognisable voices in the Indian cinema and probably would’ve even given the likes of Morgan Freeman a run for their money.
Om Puri will be fondly remembered for his role as a real estate builder Ahuja in the 1983 comedy Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro which enjoys a cult status among cinema lovers.
He had humble beginnings, born in a working class family he could not even afford his education. He worked as a ragpicker, often picking coal off the railway tracks. He stayed with his maternal uncle and pursued his studies.
Om Puri went on to pursue theatre at the NSD (National School of Drama), where he met another legend, Naseeruddin Shah. He further pursued cinematic studies at the Film & Television Institute of India, where he was rejected because he did not fit into the traditional mould of an actor. It was only on the insistence of thespian Girish Karnad & cinema veteran Jairaj, that Om Puri was given admission.
His was mentored by producer Govind Nihalani, director Shyam Benegal and Girish Karnad. The turning point in Om Puri’s cinema career came in 1983 with Ardha Satya.
Not only has actor Om Puri made a mark in Indian films, but he has also earned critical acclaim in various international films with notable roles. The nation bid him adieu with heartfelt notes
Notable Hindi Films: Ardh Satya (1983), Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), Sadgati (1984), Paar (1984), Tamas (1987) and Maachis (1996)
Notable English Films: Gandhi (1982), City of Joy (1992), East is East (1999), White Teeth (2000), The Hundred-Foot Journey (2014)
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