Nazir Hussain
Actor
About Nazir Hussain
Nazir Hussain was a pioneering figure in Indian cinema, renowned for his versatile character acting and memorable performances spanning four decades. Born in Uttar Pradesh, he began his career in the late 1940s and quickly established himself as a reliable supporting actor in Hindi films. His breakthrough came with the psychological thriller 'Mahal' (1949), where he played a significant role alongside Ashok Kumar and Madhubala. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he became one of the most sought-after character actors, known for his ability to portray authority figures, fathers, and complex supporting characters with remarkable depth. His collaboration with director Manoj Kumar in films like 'Upkar' (1967) and 'Purab Aur Paschim' (1970) showcased his exceptional range and cemented his status as a national treasure. He continued working prolifically through the 1970s, appearing in iconic films like 'Sholay' (1975) and 'Deewar' (1975). His final years saw him transition to more paternal roles, becoming the quintessential father figure in Hindi cinema until his death in 1987.
The Craft
On Screen
Naturalistic and understated, known for bringing authenticity to every role. Hussain specialized in playing dignified, authoritative figures with a calm demeanor and powerful screen presence. His acting was characterized by subtle facial expressions, measured dialogue delivery, and an ability to convey deep emotions without melodrama. He had a unique talent for making even small supporting roles memorable through his commanding presence and nuanced performances.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role in 'Mahal' (1949)
- Critically acclaimed performance in 'Naya Daur' (1957)
- National Film Award for 'Upkar' (1967)
- Iconic role in 'Sholay' (1975)
- Over 500 films in four decades
- Pioneering character actor in Indian cinema
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- National Film Award for Best Feature Film for 'Upkar' (1967) as producer
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor nomination for 'Upkar' (1967)
Nominated
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'Upkar' (1967)
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'Purab Aur Paschim' (1970)
Special Recognition
- Padma Shri recipient (1977) for contributions to Indian cinema
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award recipient (1985) - India's highest award in cinema
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Nazir Hussain revolutionized character acting in Indian cinema, elevating supporting roles to positions of critical importance. His portrayal of authoritative yet compassionate figures helped shape the archetype of the ideal Indian father and elder in popular culture. Through his work in patriotic films like 'Upkar' and 'Purab Aur Paschim', he contributed significantly to the nationalistic discourse in post-independence India. His dignified representation of Indian values and traditions resonated deeply with audiences across generations, making him a cultural icon whose influence extended beyond cinema into social norms and family values.
Lasting Legacy
Nazir Hussain's legacy endures through his vast body of work and the countless actors he inspired. He established character acting as a respectable and integral part of Indian cinema, paving the way for future generations of supporting actors. His films continue to be celebrated and studied for their artistic merit and cultural significance. The National Film Award and Dadasaheb Phalke Award he received stand as testament to his monumental contribution to Indian cinema. Even decades after his passing, his performances remain reference points for actors studying the craft of subtle, impactful character portrayal.
Who They Inspired
Hussain influenced generations of Indian actors with his naturalistic style and dignified screen presence. His approach to character acting became a template for supporting roles in Hindi cinema. Many contemporary character actors cite him as an inspiration for bringing authenticity to every role regardless of screen time. His collaboration patterns with directors like Manoj Kumar established new standards for actor-director relationships in the industry. His success demonstrated that character actors could achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success, encouraging more actors to pursue supporting roles as viable career paths.
Off Screen
Nazir Hussain led a relatively private personal life despite his massive fame in Indian cinema. He was known for his disciplined lifestyle and dedication to his craft. He married early in life and was a devoted family man who maintained a balance between his professional commitments and family responsibilities. His home in Mumbai was known for hosting gatherings of film industry colleagues, where he would often share stories from his extensive career. He was also involved in various charitable activities, particularly supporting education for underprivileged children.
Education
Completed schooling in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. No formal training in acting, learned through practical experience in the film industry.
Family
- Name not publicly documented
Did You Know?
- Despite appearing in over 500 films, he never played the lead protagonist in a major film
- He was one of the first character actors to receive the Padma Shri honor
- His role in 'Sholay' was initially written for a younger actor, but was rewritten for him
- He was fluent in Hindi, Urdu, and English, which helped him work across different film industries
- He started his career as a radio announcer before entering films
- He was known for never being late on set throughout his 40-year career
- He turned down many lead roles preferring to focus on character parts
- His son briefly entered the film industry but left to pursue business
- He was a close friend of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
- He was one of the highest-paid character actors of his time
In Their Own Words
Acting is not about becoming someone else, it's about finding yourself in different situations
Every character, no matter how small, has a story to tell
The camera never lies, so honesty in performance is everything
Cinema is not just entertainment, it's a mirror to society
Success in films comes from respecting every role, big or small
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Nazir Hussain?
Nazir Hussain was a legendary Indian character actor who appeared in over 500 Hindi films between 1947 and 1987. He was known for his dignified portrayals of authority figures, fathers, and complex supporting characters, becoming one of the most respected actors in Indian cinema history.
What films is Nazir Hussain best known for?
Nazir Hussain is best known for his memorable performances in 'Mahal' (1949), 'Naya Daur' (1957), 'Upkar' (1967), 'Purab Aur Paschim' (1970), 'Sholay' (1975), and 'Deewar' (1975). These films showcased his exceptional range and established him as a master of character acting.
When was Nazir Hussain born and when did he die?
Nazir Hussain was born on May 15, 1922, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, and passed away on October 16, 1987, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, at the age of 65.
What awards did Nazir Hussain win?
Nazir Hussain received the prestigious Padma Shri in 1977 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1985, India's highest honor in cinema. He also won a National Film Award for 'Upkar' (1967) and received several Filmfare Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor.
What was Nazir Hussain's acting style?
Nazir Hussain was known for his naturalistic and understated acting style, characterized by subtle expressions, measured dialogue delivery, and authentic portrayals. He specialized in bringing dignity and depth to supporting roles, making even small characters memorable through his powerful screen presence and emotional authenticity.
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Films
2 films
