This comprehensive biography explores the life and career of the celebrated Indian actor, Vijay Arora, known for his roles in iconic films and television series. From his early life and education to his remarkable career and untimely death, we delve into the details of this multifaceted personality.

Wiki/Biography

Vijay Arora was born on Wednesday, 27 December 1944 (age 62 at the time of his death) in Cutch State, British India. He graduated from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in 1971, earning a Gold Medal. Even before FTII, he pursued acting roles but was advised to hone his skills first; this led him to enroll at FTII. In an interview, he recounted his early struggles, stating, “When I decided to join films, I made a round of each studio once. Then I sat back to wait for them. Nobody came. It was suggested to me I first groom myself for the profession. So I went to the Film Institute, slogged it out for two years, took the Gold Medal and was signed up even before I’d graduated.”

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5′ 10″
• Eye Colour: Black
• Hair Colour: Black

Family & Caste

Vijay Arora hailed from a Punjabi Khatri family. While details about his parents and siblings remain scarce, his family background significantly shaped his life and career.

Relationships, Wife & Children

Vijay Arora married Dilber Debara, a former model and Miss India. Their son, Farhad Vijay Arora, is a prominent promoter for Ferrari and Maserati cars in India.

Career

Film

Arora’s film debut was in “Zaroorat” (1972), alongside Reena Roy. He quickly followed this with roles in “Rakhi Aur Hathkadi” (1972) with Asha Parekh, and the pivotal role in “Yaadon Ki Baaraat” (1973) opposite Zeenat Aman, which catapulted him to fame. The romantic song “Chura Liya Hai” from this film remains a classic. His filmography is extensive, including notable collaborations with leading actors of his time and appearances in a variety of genres.

His success continued with roles in films like “Phagun” (1973), “Roti” (1974) with Rajesh Khanna, and the surprise hit “Jeevan Jyoti” (1976). He also worked in several horror films (“Veerana,” “Purani Haveli,” “Aakhri Cheekh”) and Gujarati cinema. His later films include “Sargam” (1979), “Bade Dil Wala” (1983), “100 Days” (1991), “Jaan Tere Naam” (1991), and his final film, “Indian Babu” (2003).

Television

After experiencing some setbacks in his film career, television provided a resurgence for Vijay Arora. His portrayal of Meghnad in Ramanand Sagar’s “Ramayan” (1988) garnered immense popularity. He also appeared in Shyam Benegal’s “Bharat Ek Khoj” (1988), playing Prince Salim/Emperor Jahangir. These roles cemented his status as a versatile and accomplished actor.

Death

Vijay Arora passed away on February 2, 2007, at his Mumbai residence due to stomach cancer. He had been battling an intestinal ailment for several months. His death deeply affected his wife, Dilber, who experienced prolonged depression.

Facts & Trivia

• He’s often mistaken for a cinematographer of the same name.
• After “Yadon Ki Baaraat,” he was considered a potential successor to Rajesh Khanna as Bollywood’s leading star.
• He was a pioneer in using ISO 9000 standards for advertising and documentary films in India.
• He owned a software house that produced commercials and corporate films.
• He worked extensively with the Gem and Jewellery Council of India.
• He promoted various imported products, including acupuncture massagers and industrial ventilators.
• He manufactured and supplied playing cards to Indian corporations and even Warner Brothers for the movie Superman.
• He dedicated time to mentoring aspiring actors.
• He was passionate about yoga, health, and fitness.

Key Roles and Collaborations