Amrish Puri Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Amrish Puri was one of the most legendary and powerful actors in Indian cinema, best remembered for his deep baritone voice, towering screen presence, and commanding performances. Known as the “Ultimate Villain of Bollywood,” he redefined negative roles and gave audiences some of the most iconic antagonists like Mogambo in Mr. India and Mola Ram in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. With a career spanning over three decades and more than 400 films, he also excelled in positive, character-driven roles that showcased his immense versatility.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Amrish Lal Puri
- Date of Birth: 22 June 1932
- Birthplace: Nawanshahr, Punjab, British India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
- Died: 12 January 2005, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India (aged 72)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 80 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Amrish Puri was born into a Punjabi family in Punjab. His father, Lala Nihal Chand Puri, and mother, Ved Kaur, raised him alongside his siblings, including elder brothers Madan Puri and Chaman Puri, who were also actors. Initially rejected in his first film screen test, Amrish Puri worked with the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation before joining theatre.
Education Journey
- Completed his schooling in Punjab.
- Graduated from B.M. College, Shimla.
- Pursued theatre in Mumbai, where he trained under the guidance of noted dramatists and became a prominent stage actor.
Film Debut & Early Career
- Film Debut: Prem Pujari (1970) in a small role.
- Initially played supporting characters before finding his niche in villainous roles.
- His breakthrough came with Reshma Aur Shera (1971).
Rise to Stardom
Amrish Puri quickly rose to prominence with his unmatched intensity:
- Nagina (1986) – Played the evil sorcerer Bhairo Nath.
- Mr. India (1987) – His portrayal of Mogambo remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic villains with the famous dialogue “Mogambo khush hua!”
- Tridev (1989), Karan Arjun (1995), and Ghatak (1996) further cemented his reputation.
- In international cinema, he gained recognition as Mola Ram in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984).
Bollywood Journey & Iconic Films
- Prem Pujari (1970)
- Reshma Aur Shera (1971)
- Mashaal (1984)
- Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984, Hollywood debut)
- Mr. India (1987) – Mogambo
- Nagina (1986)
- Ram Lakhan (1989)
- Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995) – Played the strict but emotional father, Chaudhary Baldev Singh.
- Karan Arjun (1995)
- Ghatak (1996)
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor (1991): Meri Jung.
- Screen Awards & Zee Cine Awards: Multiple wins and nominations for villain and supporting roles.
- Widely recognized as one of the greatest villains in world cinema.
Personal Life
Amrish Puri married Urmila Divekar in 1957. The couple had two children – son Rajeev Puri and daughter Namrata Puri. Known for his discipline and humility, Amrish Puri maintained a simple life off-screen despite his grand on-screen persona.
Death
On 12 January 2005, Amrish Puri passed away in Mumbai due to a brain hemorrhage after battling myelodysplastic syndrome. His death was mourned by fans, filmmakers, and actors across the world.
Legacy & Influence
Amrish Puri is remembered as the actor who set the gold standard for villains in Bollywood. His portrayal of Mogambo ranks among the most iconic characters in Indian cinema. Beyond villainy, his emotional roles, like the father in Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, showcased his range. He remains a timeless legend, whose dialogues and screen presence continue to inspire generations of actors.
FAQs
Q1: What was Amrish Puri’s full name?
A: Amrish Lal Puri.
Q2: Which was his debut film?
A: Prem Pujari (1970).
Q3: What was his most famous role?
A: Mogambo in Mr. India (1987).
Q4: Did Amrish Puri work in Hollywood?
A: Yes, he played Mola Ram in Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984).
Q5: When did Amrish Puri die?
A: 12 January 2005, at the age of 72.
