Jeevan Birth Anniversary: ​​The actor who played the role of Narada Muni on the big screen 49 times

Today is the death anniversary of the famous Hindi cinema villain Jeevan. His real name was Omkar Prakash Saigal, but he was known by his stage name "Jeevan ." From the 1970s to the 1990s, he played villainous and supporting roles in numerous films that are still remembered today.      

Life's film journey

Jeevan began his career in the 1940s, but he gained real recognition in the 1970s. His signature voice and menacing smile were his powerful villainous roles. He worked with major stars like Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Vinod Khanna.

Memorable films and roles

• Roti (1974)  – Jeevan played the role of a dreaded villain in this Rajesh Khanna film.

• Dost (1974)  – His role in this action film starring Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra is also remembered.

• Sholay (1975)  – Although his role was small, his presence made the film even more powerful.

• Kaala Patthar (1979)  – In this film, he played the role of a cruel villain, which was highly appreciated by the audience.

A villain the audience loved

Jeevan always played villainous characters that struck fear into the hearts of audiences, yet he was also loved for his acting. His voice and acting style were so distinctive that audiences were always on their toes as soon as he appeared in films.

Personal life and legacy

Jeevan acted in over 300 films in his lifetime. He gave Hindi cinema a villain whose influence remains intact even today. He passed away on September 18, 2009 , but his films continue to immortalize him. Born on October 24, 1915, into a Kashmiri Pandit family, Omkar Nath Dhar's life began with tragedy. He lost his mother at birth and his father at the age of three, and was raised by his grandfather. Growing up in a wealthy family, Omkar had no particular interest in cinema, but he was drawn to acting from childhood.  

The journey started with Rs 26

At the age of 18, when his grandfather forbade him from entering films, Omkar made a bold decision. With just 26 rupees in his pocket, he ran away from home and reached Bombay (now Mumbai). Initially, he found work as a reflector boy in a studio. This began his cinematic journey, which later led to his first acting debut in the film "Fashionable India" (1935). It was during this time that he changed his name to "Jeevan."

Played the role of Narada Muni 49 times

Jeevan played many memorable roles throughout his long career, but the one that brought him the most recognition was that of Narada Muni. He himself revealed on Tabassum's talk show that he played this role 49 times. His role became so popular that people began to mistake him for Narada Muni in real life as well.

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