Zahur Raja
Actor
About Zahur Raja
Zahur Raja was an Indian actor who appeared in early cinema during the golden era of Indian filmmaking in the 1940s. His known filmography consists primarily of his appearance in the historical epic 'Sikandar' (1941), one of the most significant productions of early Indian cinema. The film, directed by Sohrab Modi, was a grand historical drama about Alexander the Great and featured an ensemble cast of prominent actors of the time. While information about Zahur Raja's specific role in the film is limited, his participation in such a prestigious production suggests he was part of the burgeoning film industry in Bombay during its formative years. The early 1940s marked a significant period in Indian cinema with the transition to sound and the development of more sophisticated storytelling techniques. Unfortunately, detailed records about supporting actors from this era are scarce, making it difficult to trace the complete career trajectory of performers like Zahur Raja.
The Craft
Milestones
- Appeared in the historical epic 'Sikandar' (1941) directed by Sohrab Modi
Best Known For
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
As a participant in 'Sikandar' (1941), Zahur Raja contributed to one of the foundational works of Indian historical cinema. The film was significant for its ambitious scale and technical achievements during a formative period in Indian filmmaking. Historical epics like 'Sikandar' played a crucial role in establishing Indian cinema's artistic credentials and demonstrated the industry's capability to produce grand, technically sophisticated productions that could compete with international cinema.
Lasting Legacy
Zahur Raja's legacy is tied to his involvement in 'Sikandar' (1941), a film that remains an important milestone in Indian cinema history. While his individual contribution may have been small, he was part of a production that helped establish the historical epic genre in Indian cinema and demonstrated the artistic potential of the medium during its early sound era.
Who They Inspired
Given the limited documentation of his career and the brief nature of his known filmography, it's difficult to assess Zahur Raja's specific influence on other actors or filmmakers. However, his participation in significant productions of the era contributed to the overall development of the Indian film industry.
Off Screen
Very limited information is available about Zahur Raja's personal life, as was common for many supporting actors in early Indian cinema whose biographical details were not extensively documented.
Did You Know?
- Appeared in 'Sikandar' (1941), which was one of the most expensive and ambitious films of early Indian cinema
- The film 'Sikandar' was produced by Minerva Movietone, one of the prominent studios of the era
- His career appears to have been limited to the early 1940s, with only one documented film credit
- During this period, many actors in Indian cinema came from theatrical backgrounds
- Early Indian cinema often featured ensemble casts with many actors playing smaller, uncredited roles
- The 1940s was a transitional period for Indian cinema with the industry establishing its unique identity
- Historical films were particularly popular in early Indian cinema as they could showcase grand production values
- Documentation of supporting actors from this era is often incomplete due to limited record-keeping practices
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Zahur Raja?
Zahur Raja was an Indian actor who appeared in early cinema during the 1940s. He is known for his role in the historical film 'Sikandar' (1941), which was one of the significant productions of early Indian cinema directed by Sohrab Modi.
What films is Zahur Raja best known for?
Zahur Raja is primarily known for his appearance in 'Sikandar' (1941), a historical epic about Alexander the Great. This film was a major production of its time and remains an important work in the history of Indian cinema.
When was Zahur Raja born and when did he die?
Specific birth and death dates for Zahur Raja are not available in documented records. This is common for many supporting actors from early Indian cinema, whose biographical details were not extensively preserved.
What awards did Zahur Raja win?
There are no documented awards or nominations for Zahur Raja. During the early 1940s, formal award systems for Indian cinema were not yet established, and documentation of recognition for supporting actors from this period is limited.
What was Zahur Raja's acting style?
Specific details about Zahur Raja's acting style are not documented. Actors in early Indian cinema of the 1940s often drew from theatrical traditions, with performances that emphasized dramatic expression suitable for the technical limitations of early sound films.
What studio did Zahur Raja work with?
Zahur Raja worked with Minerva Movietone, the production company behind 'Sikandar' (1941). Minerva Movietone was one of the prominent studios of the era, known for producing socially relevant and historically significant films under the leadership of Sohrab Modi.
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Films
1 film
