Raaj Kumar, a legendary figure in Indian cinema, remains an iconic and enigmatic personality. His unique style and understated acting continue to captivate audiences even today. This comprehensive biography explores his life, career, and lasting legacy.
Wiki/Biography
Raaj Kumar, born Kulbhushan Pandit on Friday, 8 October 1926 (age 69 at the time of death), in Loralai, Baluchistan Agency, British India (now Balochistan, Pakistan), embarked on an extraordinary journey. Following the partition of India, he moved to Bombay, securing a position as a Sub Inspector at the Mahim Police Station. His career took an unexpected turn after an alleged involvement in a murder case, leading him to leave the police force and pursue a career in acting.
Physical Appearance
• Height (approx.): 5’ 10”
• Eye Colour: Dark Brown
• Hair Colour: Salt & Pepper
Family & Caste
Raaj Kumar hailed from a middle-class Kashmiri Brahmin family, often referred to as “Kashmiri Pandits.”
Parents & Siblings
His father was Jagdishwar Nath Pandit, and his mother was Dhanraj Rani Pandit. He had four sisters and three brothers: Anand Babi Pandit, Jeevanlal Pandit, and Mahindernath Pandit.
Wife & Children
In the 1960s, he met Jennifer, an Anglo-Indian air hostess, on a flight. Their love story blossomed into marriage, and Jennifer later adopted the name Gayatri. They had three children: two sons, Puru Raaj Kumar and Panini Raajkumar (both actors), and a daughter, Vastavikta Pandit, also an actress.
Signature/Autograph
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Address
Raaj Kumar owned two homes in Mumbai – one in Dadar and another, his primary residence, the Juhu bungalow “The Whispering Windows”.
Career
Raaj Kumar’s illustrious acting career spanned over four decades. His memorable roles include ‘Shamu’ in Mother India (1957), ‘Ram’ in Dil Ek Mandir (1963), ‘Raja’ in Waqt (1965), ‘Chitrasen’ in Neel Kamal (1968), ‘Salim’ in Pakeezah (1972), ‘Rajeshwar Singh’ in Saudagar (1991), and ‘Brigadier Suryadev Singh’ in Tirangaa (1993). While his debut was in 1952’s Rangeeli, Neeli (1950) is often considered his screen debut. His performance in Sohrab Modi’s Nausherwan-E-Adil brought him initial recognition. The role of ‘Shamu’ in Mother India solidified his position in the industry. His first Filmfare nomination was for Best Supporting Actor in Paigham (1959), where he co-starred with Dilip Kumar. They would later reunite in Subhash Ghai’s Saudagar, a cult classic.
Awards & Honours
- Won Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for “Dil Ek Mandir” (1963) in 1964.
- Won Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for “Waqt” (1965) in 1966.
Controversies
A well-publicized altercation with Raj Kapoor at Prem Chopra’s wedding in 1969 made headlines. An earlier incident involving a death during a fight, while he was with friends, resulted in his arrest, though he was later acquitted.
Car Collection
Raaj Kumar’s love for cars is well-documented. His collection included a Plymouth, Chevrolet, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and a Willy’s Jeep.
Favourites
| Category | Favorite |
|---|---|
| Food | Rogan Josh, Chaman (Paneer) with Baingan and Kasuri Methi, Methi Paratha |
| Beverage | Kahwa (a Kashmiri drink) |
| Cuisine | Continental |
| Song | “Aye dil-e-nadaan” from Razia Sultan |
| Filmmaker | Mehboob Khan |
| Attire | Kurta Pyjama, Shirts and Trousers, Khadau (wooden sandals) |
| Travel Destination | Kashmir, Switzerland |
Death
Raaj Kumar passed away from throat cancer, reportedly after a long battle with Hodgkin’s Disease. Ironically, he was known for his opposition to the dramatic portrayal of death scenes in films.
Facts/Trivia
• Earned the sobriquet “Jaani” in the film industry.
• Enjoyed non-vegetarian food.
• Leisure activities included trekking, golf, horse riding, and listening to classical music and Ghazals.
• Was a regular smoker and drinker.
• Changed his name from Kulbushan Pandit to Raaj Kumar in 1950.
• Was a skilled golfer and horse rider.
• Was highly selective in choosing roles, often doing only one film per year.
• Maintained a private and enigmatic persona throughout his life.
• Reportedly lost his hair permanently in his youth due to an illness.
• Enjoyed sunsets with his family.
• Was among the first Bollywood actors to drive a Jeep.
• Was a passionate dog lover.
• Known for his flamboyant style.
• Reportedly refused Zanjeer due to his dislike of director Prakash Mehra.
• Maintained disciplined work ethics and a loyal staff for many years.
• Was the face of many memorable Bollywood songs.
