Sunil Dutt
He appeared in such films as “Mother India” (1957) and “Gumrah” (1962), before going on to star in other projects like “Waqt” (1965), 36 Ghante” (1974) and “Pran Jaye Par Vachan Na Jaye” (1974).
At first it seemed as though he, or at least people like him, might take Bombay in a new direction. But two events intervened – firstly he fell ill with diabetes while simultaneously joining the revolutionaries; and secondly an unexpected development took place: both brothers died unexpectedly within 24 hours.
Sunil Dutt | He blamed his politics
Sunil Dutt was known for steadfastly adhering to his principles throughout his life, which earned him respect as both an on-screen hero and in real life.
He remained uncontaminated despite India’s corrupt electoral politics, refusing to be seduced by promises of power or lured in by promise of wealth; instead being inspired by his noble goal of ending longstanding Hindu-Muslim animus.
He appeared in over 100 films throughout his career, from action-packed gangland flicks to romantic comedies and even comedy features. Additionally, he often played roles that required him to act as father figure to children onscreen.
In 1981, he married Nargis Dutt, a Muslim. Although she converted to Hinduism prior to their wedding day, her brothers insisted she be laid to rest according to her original faith of Muslimism.
Dutt stepped aside for three years and his constituency was taken over by Bal Thakkar from Shiv Sena; however, he stated his intention of returning at some point.
Dutt starred alongside son Sanjay in Munnabhai MBBS in 2003 – his last movie before passing away suddenly and shockingly. Dutt’s death sent shockwaves through society; an iconic figure who will always be remembered fondly.
Sunil Dutt | He blamed his friends
Due to his turbulent personal life, Dutt remained a grounded person with strong friendships. A dedicated social worker, Dutt was responsible for founding the Nargis Dutt Cancer Foundation in 1981 as well as leading a 1,250 mile (2,000-km) peace march from Mumbai to Amritsar when Sikh militant activity reached its height in 1987. Additionally he made an appeal for disarmament by walking from Nagasaki to Hiroshima.Sunil Dutt
Sanju’s makers decided not to include many major incidents from his life story in their film. Although many events are essential to its plot, their absence was likely considered too frivolous or would have disrupted its overall tone.
Sanjay Gupta was one of Sunil’s closest allies after his release from prison and provided him with some of his most notable movies such as “Aatish”, “Kaante” and “Musafir”. Unfortunately due to a miscommunication the two parted ways due to an unfortunate misunderstanding, creating a significant void both personally and professionally.Sunil Dutt
Sanju’s makers omitted from its depiction the fact that Sanjay was accused of having links with the underworld, though there was no definitive proof tying him directly with Chhota Shakeel (an underworld don). Guns were recovered from his home on Bandra’s Pali Hill; and there have been reports that he fired shots into his own bungalow, disturbing neighbours nearby.Sunil Dutt
Sunil Dutt | He blamed his family
Dutt’s life was marked by tragedy: losing his wife Nargis to cancer, supporting Sunjay as he battled drug addiction, and facing imprisonment in what many saw as a miscarriage of justice and frame up. Yet, Dutt kept walking with pride.
Dutt remained an active figure in film despite all odds, producing several notable early sixties movies like ‘Gumrah’ and ‘Waqt’ which became hits. Later, he collaborated with director Rajkumar Hirani on Munna Bhai M.B.B.S in which both actor shared screen time together including their son.
Sunil Dutt
Reshma Aur Shera saw him return to filmmaking. This movie included a heartwarming father-son scene which brought tears of joy to millions worldwide. This led him back into Hollywood for another comeback through the release of Reshma Aur Shera.
Dutt took action during January’s communal violence in Mumbai by appearing at the doorsteps of those affected. Hysterical women cursed him out while asking someone else to publicly support his son’s case so he could get out of jail.
