In the golden era of Indian cinema, a name synonymous with villainy yet commanding respect and awe was that of Pran Krishan Sikand, better known as Pran. A man of immense talent, versatility, and charisma, Pran's legacy lies not just in the multitude of characters he portrayed on screen but in how he fundamentally transformed the image of the Hindi film villain. His characters weren't just negative archetypes; they were layered, psychologically complex, and often more memorable than the heroes themselves.
Early Life and Entry into Cinema
Pran was born on February 12, 1920, in Ballimaran, Old Delhi, into a wealthy Punjabi family. His father, Kewal Krishan Sikand, was a government civil engineer. Pran received his early education in various cities like Kapurthala, Unnao, Meerut, and Dehradun, which helped him develop a wide perspective and a fluent command of Hindi, Urdu, and Punjabi. Initially interested in photography, Pran's journey into cinema began accidentally when he was spotted by a film producer while working in a bakery in Lahore. That led to his first role in the Punjabi film “Yamla Jat” (1940).
Before India’s Partition, Pran worked extensively in Lahore, acting in several successful films. However, after Partition in 1947, he moved to Bombay (now Mumbai) and faced severe challenges restarting his career. But fate smiled upon him when veteran writer Saadat Hasan Manto recommended him to Bombay Talkies, and soon he was cast in “Ziddi” (1948), alongside Dev Anand. That film marked the beginning of an illustrious journey in Hindi cinema.
Rise to Stardom and Redefining
the Villain
Pran's early years in Hindi films saw him playing the quintessential villain – conniving, cruel, and sinister. But what set him apart was his uncanny ability to humanize even the darkest characters. He brought a unique charm, poise, and dignity to roles that were typically one-dimensional. His diction, dialogue delivery, body language, and fashion became benchmarks in villainy.
In movies like “Madhumati” (1958), “Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai” (1960), “Kashmir Ki Kali” (1964), and “Ram Aur Shyam” (1967), Pran was the scheming antagonist who could evoke both fear and fascination. He made evil charismatic. One of his most iconic performances came in “Zanjeer” (1973), where he played Sher Khan – a former smuggler who reforms due to the influence of the upright police officer played by Amitabh Bachchan. Sher Khan, with his Pathani suit, colorful personality, and deep moral compass, became one of the most beloved characters in Bollywood.
His versatility allowed him to move beyond the confines of villainous roles. In the 1970s and 80s, he played several positive characters in films like “Upkar” (1967), “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), “Parichay” (1972), and “Amar Akbar Anthony” (1977). His shift from villain to supporting roles showcased his range as an actor and his ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Contribution to Indian Cinema
Pran's contribution to Indian cinema goes beyond acting. He set standards for professionalism and discipline in the industry. Despite playing negative roles, he was immensely respected by his peers and the public. Parents in the 60s and 70s often refrained from naming their children "Pran" because of the strong impact of his villainous persona. Yet, such was his stature that he remained one of the most admired figures in Bollywood.
Anecdotes and Personal Life: The Whisky Story
One of the most memorable stories about Pran is tied to his fondness for whisky. Though he enjoyed his drink, he was highly principled. He never drank while working. If a scene required him to appear intoxicated or hold a drink, it was always an imitation. Real liquor never touched his lips while in makeup or on set.
Although liquor was banned, permits could be obtained to consume alcohol privately. Pran and his friend, who was also a neighbour and reportedly close to Pranab Mukherjee, secured such permits. On one occasion, they visited the Cricket Club of India (CCI), where both were members. To bypass the law banning drinking in public, they devised a humorous loophole – they began drinking inside the CCI's lift.
Every day, they’d ride the lift up and down, enjoying their drinks. This continued for a few days until someone reported them. The police arrested them and presented them in court. The judge, amused but firm, questioned why they didn’t drink at home. Pran cleverly argued that CCI, being a private club and their second home, was not a public place. His wit won the judge over, and the case was dismissed. Club members lauded Pran for his clever argument.
Another hilarious incident took place during Christmas when Pran's friend, married to a European woman, hosted a grand party where liquor was served – a violation under the prohibition law. The police raided the party after receiving a tip-off. Fortunately, Pran and his friend had received advance warning and managed to hide or remove all signs of alcohol before the police could take action. Once again, Pran’s resourcefulness and calm demeanor saved the day.
Family Life
Despite portraying cruel and
villainous roles on screen, Pran was a devoted family man. He was married to
Shukla Ahluwalia in 1945, and they had three children – two sons and a
daughter. He kept his family life private, and despite his celebrity status,
Pran maintained a dignified, grounded personality off-screen. He was known for
his generosity, especially towards junior artists and technicians in the
industry.
His children stayed away from the limelight, and Pran never encouraged them to enter films, wanting them to choose their own paths.
Health Issues and Last Years
As he aged, Pran faced multiple health challenges. In his later years, he suffered from heart ailments and respiratory issues. Yet, he continued to make occasional appearances in films. One of his last major screen appearances was in “Kya Kehna” (2000). He received the Padma Bhushan in 2001 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2013 for his lifetime contribution to Indian cinema.
However, by then, his health had severely deteriorated. He was mostly confined to his home and later hospitalized frequently due to chronic illnesses. Despite these struggles, he remained mentally alert and was always aware of the world of cinema.
Pran passed away on July 12, 2013, at the age of 93 in Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital, leaving behind a void in the film industry that can never truly be filled. His funeral was attended by numerous film personalities who paid their last respects to the actor who had once redefined the essence of villainy in Indian films.
Legacy
Pran's legacy is not only in the hundreds of roles he played but also in how he changed public perception. His screen presence was so dominant that the industry found it difficult to find a suitable antagonist in his absence. Many tried to emulate his style, but few succeeded.
His transition from villain to character actor was seamless, and his performances always carried emotional depth and nuance. From cold-blooded thugs to wise uncles, Pran gave Indian cinema some of its most unforgettable characters.
Today, actors like Amrish Puri, Prem Chopra, and Danny Denzongpa are considered successors to the tradition that Pran began. But even among them, Pran remains the benchmark.
Conclusion
Pran Krishan Sikand was not just an actor; he was an institution. His ability to breathe life into characters, his professional ethics, his love for poetry, and his uncanny wit both on and off screen made him one of the most cherished personalities in Indian cinema. Through his roles, he humanized the villain and demonstrated that even the darkest characters can possess complexity, emotion, and depth. His stories – both cinematic and real – continue to inspire and entertain generations.
Pran’s life is a reminder that a man who terrified millions on screen could be the gentlest soul off it, a loyal friend, a loving husband, and a shayar with a fondness for fine whisky. In redefining villainy, he truly became one of Hindi cinema’s greatest heroes.