Today, we will highlight the journey of this actor who started his career as a leading man but didn’t garner much success in heroic roles.
Then, he transitioned into portraying minor antagonists, and gave some memorable performances. Well, he was Kamal Kapoor, the man who charmed everyone with his piercing green, snake-like eyes and fair complexion. He was cousin of legendary actor Prithviraj Kapoor, and uncle to Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor and Shashi Kapoor.
Kamal Kapoor’s journey
Born on 22th February 1920, Kamal completed his education in Lahore. He started working in theatre with Prithviraj Kapoor, pursuing his passion in acting and creative arts. In 1946, he made his on-screen debut with Phani Majumdar’s Door Chalein, opposite lead actress Naseem. In 1968, He starred in Raj Kapoor’s Aag, portraying the role of his father. Following that, he received numerous offers to play similar roles but he declined to do so.
Kamal Kapoor’s noteworthy work
Kamal Kapoor then transitioned into playing villain with film Johar Mehmood In Goa, which was released in 1965. He garnered limelight after that, and was flooded with numerous offers to portray different kind of roles in films like Johar In Bombay, Johar Mehmood In Hongkong, Jab Jab Phool Khile, Raja Aur Rank, Dastak, Pakeezah, Paapi, ChorMachaye Shor, Five Rifles, Do Jasoos, Deewar, Khel Khel Me, Mard and Toofan.
One of his most memorable performances stands as Don’s right-hand man Narang in Don (1978). In a career spanned over five decades, Kamal Kapoor worked in over 600 films in Hindi, Punjabi and Gujarati languages. From gangster to police officer, the actor portrayed wide range of roles, and captivated audiences with his powerful screen-presence.