Credited for bringing the technique of ‘method acting’ into Bollywood, legend Dilip Kumar made an everlasting impression on his fans with some brilliant performances. He was the last surviving actor of the ‘golden age of Hindi cinema.’ Just one year short of celebrating his 100th birthday, he has left back an immaculate legacy that is hard to be filled. His passion and vigor as an actor, even today, are unmatched and incomparable. His screen presence, his dialogue delivery and unambiguous portrayal of every character with ease,were a true gift. Often referred to as the ‘First Khan’ of the film industry, Dilip Kumar made his debut into Bollywood in 1944 with Jwar Bhata. He however, gained immense popularity only with his 1947 film Jugnu. It was no turning back for him post that.

Dilip Kumar holds the record for winning the maximum number of Filmfare Awards by any actor in Bollywood and was the first actor to receive one. His career graph spans for over 5 decades with 65 films to his credit and ones that have been etched into people’s memory. Some of his best known films include Andaz(1949), Aan(1952), Daag(1952), Devdas(1955), Azaad(1955), Mughal-e-Azam(1960), Gunga Jumna(1961) and Ram Aur Shyam(1967).

It is said that the actor suffered severe depression due to the intense roles he portrayed during the 1950’s, resulting, which he was called the ‘tragedy king’. Dilipji took a five year long break from acting in 1976 and returned with some incredible character roles in films like Kranti(1981), Shakti(1982), Mashaal(1984), Karma(1986) and Saudagar(1991). His last film was Qila in 1998 that starrer Rekha.

Dilipji made headlines with his love affair with actress Madhubala, but the couple never tied the knot. He eventually fell in love and married young actress Saira Banu in 1966.

Dilip Kumar has created a benchmark for actors of all generations that is looked up to even today. It is said that the only actor who has come anywhere close to his emotional efficacy as an actor has been Shah Rukh Khan. We wish the family great strength to bear this irreparable loss not just to them but the entire Hindi film industry that has lost one of the greatest actors we ever will have!