Hameed Butt
Actor
About Hameed Butt
Hameed Butt was an Indian actor who appeared during the early years of Indian cinema's transition to independence-era filmmaking. His sole known film appearance was in the groundbreaking 1946 film 'Neecha Nagar,' which marked a significant milestone in Indian cinematic history. The film, directed by Chetan Anand, was a social drama that tackled themes of class inequality and social justice, reflecting the political climate of pre-independence India. Butt's participation in this landmark project placed him among the pioneering actors of Indian parallel cinema, though his career appears to have been limited to this single notable contribution. The film's international recognition at the first Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Grand Prix, made all its cast members part of a historic moment in Indian cinema. Unfortunately, detailed records about Butt's life beyond this film are scarce, suggesting he may have been a character actor or someone who pursued acting only briefly.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in 'Neecha Nagar' (1946), the first Indian film to win an international award at Cannes
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Grand Prix du Festival International du Film (Cannes Film Festival, 1946) - as part of 'Neecha Nagar' cast
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Hameed Butt's contribution to Indian cinema, while limited to a single film, places him within the historic context of India's first major international film success. 'Neecha Nagar' was revolutionary for its time, addressing social issues of class disparity and injustice, themes that would become central to Indian parallel cinema. The film's victory at Cannes in 1946 opened doors for Indian cinema on the global stage, proving that Indian films could compete and succeed internationally. As part of this pioneering cast, Butt contributed to establishing India's presence in world cinema during the crucial pre-independence period.
Lasting Legacy
Hameed Butt's legacy is intrinsically tied to the historic achievement of 'Neecha Nagar' as India's first internationally acclaimed film. While his individual career may have been brief, his participation in this groundbreaking work makes him part of the foundation of Indian cinema's global recognition. The film's success at Cannes set a precedent for future Indian filmmakers and actors, demonstrating that socially relevant Indian stories could resonate with international audiences.
Who They Inspired
Due to the limited scope of his documented career, Hameed Butt's direct influence on subsequent generations of actors is difficult to trace. However, his involvement in 'Neecha Nagar' contributed to the film's role as an inspiration for future Indian parallel cinema filmmakers who would continue to explore social themes and seek international recognition.
Off Screen
Very little information is available about Hameed Butt's personal life, as he appears to have had a brief career in cinema with only one known film credit. His participation in 'Neecha Nagar' represents his only documented contribution to Indian cinema during the pivotal year of 1946, just before India's independence.
Did You Know?
- 'Neecha Nagar' was the first Indian film to win an award at an international film festival
- The film won the Grand Prix (now Palme d'Or) at the first Cannes Film Festival in 1946
- 1946 was the year of India's independence, making the film's themes particularly relevant
- The film was based on a story by writer Zia Sarhadi
- Director Chetan Anand was the brother of future Bollywood star Dev Anand
- The film was produced with a modest budget but achieved international acclaim
- The film's success helped establish the credibility of Indian cinema internationally
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Hameed Butt?
Hameed Butt was an Indian actor known for his appearance in the 1946 film 'Neecha Nagar,' which was historically significant as the first Indian film to win an international award at the Cannes Film Festival.
What films is Hameed Butt best known for?
Hameed Butt is known for his role in 'Neecha Nagar' (1946), which appears to be his only documented film appearance. This film made history by winning the Grand Prix at the first Cannes Film Festival.
When was Hameed Butt born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Hameed Butt are not available in documented records, as he appears to have had a brief career with only one known film credit in 1946.
What awards did Hameed Butt win?
As part of the cast of 'Neecha Nagar,' Hameed Butt shared in the film's historic win of the Grand Prix du Festival International du Film at the first Cannes Film Festival in 1946.
What was Hameed Butt's acting style?
Due to limited documentation of his career beyond 'Neecha Nagar,' specific details about Hameed Butt's acting style are not available in historical records.
Why is 'Neecha Nagar' historically significant?
'Neecha Nagar' is historically significant as the first Indian film to gain international recognition, winning the top prize at the inaugural Cannes Film Festival in 1946, which established India's presence in world cinema.
Did Hameed Butt act in other films?
Based on available records, 'Neecha Nagar' (1946) appears to be Hameed Butt's only documented film appearance, suggesting a very brief acting career focused on this single historic production.
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Films
1 film
