Jeevan was born as Omkar Nath Dhar on October 24, 1915, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Coming from an aristocratic Kashmiri Pandit family, his grandfather served as a high-ranking official under the princely state of Kashmir. Despite this privileged background, the world of films was taboo for his family. Running away at the age of 18, with just Rs 26 in his pocket, he headed to Bombay to chase his dream.
What was his big break?
Jeevan started by working behind the scenes, sticking silver paper on reflectors at a studio, before being offered small acting parts. Over time, he became known for playing the divine sage Narad Muni in mythological films; in fact, he played the role in more than 60 films, a record in itself. Simultaneously, he made a name as a memorable villain, particularly in the 1960s, 70s and 80s, delivering stand-out roles in classic Bollywood films.
Why is Jeevan still remembered?
His versatility set him apart. Whether it was the sly Narad with his heavenly mischief or the menacing villain with sharp glare and unforgettable dialogues, Jeevan covered the spectrum. His performance in films like Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) and Dharam Veer signalled his mastery of the villain role. On one occasion, a woman in a train station in Madhya Pradesh was so unsettled by his villainous image that she threw a slipper at him, mistaking fiction for reality. Jeevan reportedly told the police, “I considered that chappal an award for my natural acting.”
How did his career reflect perseverance and adaptation?
Despite the odds, Jeevan created a legacy. He shifted from mythological to mainstream roles, adapted to changing eras of cinema and carved longevity into his career—more than five decades in the industry. He passed away on June 10, 1987, in Bombay at the age of 71, but the characters he portrayed remain etched in memory.
What can young actors learn from his journey?
Jeevan’s story reminds us that beginnings do not determine endings. He began with no connections in film, came with little money, faced social prejudice for choosing acting, yet he crafted a unique path defined by resilience and diversity of roles. The shift from reflecting light behind the camera to sourcing light on screen is symbolic of his transformational journey.
Highlights:
- Jeevan played Narad Muni in more than 60 films, setting a world record.
- He ran away from home at 18 with just Rs 26 to pursue acting in Bombay.
- From mythological sage to chilling villain, his career spanned over 50 years in India(BHARAT)n cinema.
