Prithviraj Kapoor

Biography

Prithviraj Kapoor was a towering figure in the early history of Indian cinema and theatre. Born in a modest family in Samundri (now in Pakistan), he pursued higher education at Edwards College in Peshawar before moving to Bombay (now Mumbai) in the late 1920s to follow his passion for acting. He soon became a central figure in the development of both Hindi theatre and the Indian film industry.

Career

Prithviraj began his film career with silent movies, debuting in Do Dhari Talwar (1928). He was among the first generation of actors to transition successfully into talkies. His role in Alam Ara (1931), India's first sound film, marked a significant moment in cinematic history. Over the next few decades, he became known for powerful performances in films such as Sikandar (1941), Mughal-e-Azam (1960), and Kal Aaj Aur Kal (1971).

In 1944, he founded Prithvi Theatres, a traveling troupe that staged socially relevant plays across India. This initiative revived interest in Hindi theatre and nurtured generations of actors, including his sons Raj, Shammi, and Shashi Kapoor.

His portrayal of Emperor Akbar in Mughal-e-Azam remains one of the most iconic performances in Indian cinema history.

Legacy

Prithviraj Kapoor was not just a performer but a visionary who laid the foundation for one of Bollywood’s most respected acting dynasties—the Kapoor family. His dedication to the arts and cultural development earned him the Padma Bhushan in 1969 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award posthumously in 1971, India's highest award in cinema.

He passed away on May 29, 1972, but remains a legendary figure whose contributions shaped the landscape of Indian entertainment.