This actor worked in 400 films, owned a 25-room bungalow, 7 luxury cars, then lost all his money, spent his last days in chawl, his name is..
Once Bollywood’s wealthiest star with 7 luxury cars, Bhagwan Dada ended his days in obscurity, far from the glory of his golden era.
Born as Bhagwan Abhaji Palav in 1913 in Amravati, Maharashtra, Bhagwan Dada rose from humble beginnings to become India(BHARAT)’s first action and dancing superstar in cinema. The son of a textile mill worker, he left school after Class 4 due to financial constraints and moved to Mumbai, where he worked as a mill labourer before entering films. His debut came with a small role in the silent movie Criminal, and by 1934, he made his talkie debut in Himmat-E-Marda.
How did he earn the title ‘India(BHARAT)n Douglas’?
Inspired by Hollywood legend Douglas Fairbanks, Bhagwan Dada performed his own stunts without body doubles. Actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor even nicknamed him the “India(BHARAT)n Douglas.” His unique bhangra-inspired dance style influenced future stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Mithun Chakraborty, and Govinda.
The peak: Albela and unmatched stardom
In 1951, his film Albela starring Geeta Bali became a blockbuster, running in theatres for over 45 weeks. Songs like Shola Jo Bhadke and Bholi Surat Dil Ke Khote became timeless classics. Riding high on success, Bhagwan Dada bought a lavish 25-room bungalow in Juhu and seven luxury cars, arriving at sets in a different one each day.
What led to his downfall?
His ambitious project, Hansate Rehna with Kishore Kumar, proved disastrous when production stalled, forcing him to sell his mansion, cars, and possessions to cover debts. Alcohol addiction and financial ruin followed, reducing him to minor film roles in the 1960s.
A moment he could never forget
During the filming of Jung-E-Azadi (1942), he accidentally slapped actress Lalita Pawar so hard that it caused facial paralysis, altering her career forever. Bhagwan Dada remained remorseful about the incident throughout his life.
From being Bollywood’s richest star to living in a Dadar chawl, Bhagwan Dada’s journey is a stark reminder of the industry’s fleeting glory. He passed away on February 4, 2002, after a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy of over 400 films, groundbreaking dance, and unforgettable songs.
What's Your Reaction?
