Amrish Puri - The Iconic Villain of Indian CinemaAmrish Puri (June 22, 1932 - January 12, 2005) was an accomplished Indian actor, best known for his unforgettable roles as the antagonist in both Indian and international cinema. He was a significant figure in the industry, creating an indelible mark in the heart of cinema enthusiasts with over 450 films to his name. Born into a Punjabi Hindu family in Nawanshahr, Punjab, Puri moved to Mumbai in the mid-1950s to venture into acting. Despite a shaky start, he eventually became a renowned stage actor and began his illustrious film career in the early 1970s. He became a household name in India, often playing the antagonist, a role he breathed life into with his distinct baritone voice and commanding screen presence. Puri's performances encompassed a range of genres, but he was particularly known for his villainous roles. Some of his most remembered films include 'Vidhaata' (1982), 'Hero' (1983), 'Mr. India' (1987), 'Ghayal' (1990), 'Damini' (1993), and 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha' (2001). His portrayal of Mogambo in 'Mr. India' continues to be recognized as one of the greatest villain roles in Indian Cinema. His comic role in 'Chachi 420' was also lauded by critics.

Despite his reputation as a villain, Puri proved his versatility with positive supporting roles in films like 'Phool Aur Kaante' (1991), 'Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge' (1995), 'Ghatak' (1996), and 'Virasat' (1997), earning him three Filmfare Awards for Best Supporting Actor. To western audiences, he is fondly remembered as Mola Ram in Steven Spielberg's 'Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom' (1984) and as Khan in Richard Attenborough's 'Gandhi' (1982). His grandson, Vardhan Puri, carries on his legacy as an actor in Indian Cinema. However, Puri's journey to stardom was not an easy one. He faced many challenges and was almost fifty when he played his first significant role in a film. Despite his success in cinema, Puri remained humble and rooted, continuing his job at the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) until he secured a stable position in the film industry.

In his later years, Puri suffered from myelodysplastic syndrome, a rare type of blood cancer. Despite receiving treatment, he passed away on January 12, 2005. His immense contribution to Indian cinema continues to be celebrated. In 2019, Google honored him with a doodle on his 87th birthday. Throughout his career, Puri received numerous awards and nominations, reflecting his remarkable versatility and talent. He won the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for Theatre in 1979 and the Maharashtra State Drama award in 1968. He also secured multiple nominations for the Filmfare Award for Best Villain. Amrish Puri's journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. Despite numerous challenges, he remained committed to his craft, carving out an iconic place for himself in the annals of cinema. His enduring legacy as one of the greatest villains in Indian cinema continues to inspire future generations.