Death Anniversary: A Tribute to Mahipal Bhandari Ji, He Played Gods on Screen, and Became Immortal in Our Hearts

An artist is known for their craft, but some artists become immortal — remembered not just within their era, but for centuries to come. One such unforgettable name is that of the legendary actor and lyricist Mahipal Bhandari, often referred to as the “religious actor” of Hindi cinema. Yes, we are talking about Mahipal, who earned widespread acclaim for portraying roles like Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, Lord Vishnu, Tulsidas, and Abhimanyu. On the occasion of his 20th death anniversary, we take a look back at his life and legacy.

Beginnings in Cinema

Mahipal began his acting career with India’s first Marwari film 'Nazrana' in 1942, where he appeared with a charming smile in the song "Aadha Hai Chandrama Raat Aadhi". After working in Marwari films, he got the opportunity to act in Hindi films, where he found success, particularly in mythological cinema. He was also known for fantasy films, playing memorable roles from Alibaba to Hatimtai.

Recognition from Navrang

Although Mahipal began his career with Nazrana, his real breakthrough came in 1959 with V. Shantaram’s film Navrang. He played the character Diwakar, with Sandhya in the lead opposite him. Songs like "Aadha Hai Chandrama Raat Aadhi" and "Are Ja Re Hat Natkhat" from the film remain iconic even today. His films were popular not only in India but also across the Middle East. Over his career, Mahipal acted in over 130 films, sharing the screen with top actresses like Meena Kumari, Mala Sinha, Sandhya, and Nirupa Roy.

Mahipal's Film Career

Mahipal’s filmography includes classics like Alibaba Aur 40 Chor, Aladdin Aur Jadui Chirag, Alibaba Ka Beta, Rooplekha, Sunhari Nagin, Parasmani, Cobra Girl, Jantar Mantar, Daulat, and Arabian Nights. His career spanned until 1984, with his last film being Amar Jyoti. On May 15, 2005, at the age of 86, Mahipal passed away due to a heart attack.

Revered Like a God

Mahipal’s first mythological role was in Shree Ganesh Mahima (1950), directed by Homi Wadia, where Meena Kumari starred opposite him. He played the role of Lord Ganesh — the first time he portrayed a deity onscreen. This marked the beginning of a long association with mythological cinema, including hit films like Sampoorna Ramayan, Veer Bhimsen, Veer Hanuman, Hanuman Patal Vijay, and Jai Santoshi Maa.

He holds the record for playing the most roles of gods in Hindi cinema — portraying deities or devotees in more than 35 films. Audiences were so moved by his performances that many began to treat him as a divine figure in real life. Wherever he went, people would bow and touch his feet. This was during the golden era of Indian cinema, alongside legends like Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, and Dilip Kumar.

A Lyricist Too

Mahipal wasn’t just an actor — he was also a lyricist. He wrote songs for legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram, including the title song of the 1944 film Mali. During that time, Mahipal was still struggling to make a name for himself in the film industry and took up writing as well.

A Passion for Poetry

He also had a deep love for poetry. During his college years, a poem he wrote titled "Kisan" (Farmer) became so popular that he was frequently invited to recite it at public events and gatherings.

Struggles Within the Family

Born on November 24, 1919, in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Mahipal had to struggle to gain acceptance from his family. When the producers of Nazrana offered him Rs. 125 per month for the role, his family and relatives initially objected. They mocked him with comments like, “Will a man from the Bhandari family now sing and dance with courtesans and performers?” Eventually, it was his grandfather who convinced the family, paving the way for Indian cinema to gain a multi-talented gem — an actor, lyricist, and writer.

Mayapuri Magazine pays heartfelt tribute to Mahipal Ji on his death anniversary. His contributions to Indian cinema will remain immortal.

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