Nazir Hussain
Nazir Hussain: The Unsung Pioneer of Bhojpuri Cinema and Character Actor of Hindi Film
Nazir Hussain, born on May 15, 1922, in Usia village near Dildarnagar in the Kamsar region of Ghazipur district, Uttar Pradesh, emerged as a significant yet underappreciated figure in Indian cinema. His multifaceted career as an actor, director, and screenwriter spanned over three decades, during which he appeared in nearly 500 films. Despite his extensive contributions, particularly as a character actor in Hindi cinema and a pioneer of Bhojpuri films, he remains relatively unrecognized in mainstream narratives.
Early Life and Military Service
Nazir Hussain’s father, Shahabzad Khan, served as a railway guard, and the family later moved to Lucknow. Hussain briefly worked as a fireman in the railways before enlisting in the British Indian Army during World War II. His service took him to Malaysia and Singapore, where he was captured and became a prisoner of war. During his captivity, he was influenced by Subhas Chandra Bose and subsequently joined the Indian National Army (INA), contributing to India’s struggle for independence. Post-independence, he was honored with the status of a freedom fighter and received a lifetime free railway pass.
Transition to Cinema
After his military service, Hussain faced challenges in securing employment, leading him to the performing arts. He began acting in plays and caught the attention of B. N. Sircar of New Theatres, who invited him to Calcutta. There, he collaborated with renowned filmmaker Bimal Roy, assisting in the production of “Pehla Aadmi” (1950), a film based on the INA experience. Hussain not only acted in the film but also contributed to its story and dialogues, marking his entry into the film industry.
Prolific Career in Hindi Cinema
Nazir Hussain became a staple in Hindi cinema, particularly known for his roles as a father, uncle, or elder figure, earning him the moniker of Bollywood’s quintessential onscreen father. His collaborations with actors like Dev Anand in films such as “Munimji” (1955) and “Paying Guest” (1957) showcased his versatility. Despite his extensive filmography, he often remained in the background, with his name not prominently featured in credits, reflecting the industry’s tendency to overlook character actors.
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Pioneering Bhojpuri Cinema
Recognizing the cultural richness of the Bhojpuri-speaking population, Hussain envisioned a cinema that resonated with their experiences. He discussed this idea with President Rajendra Prasad, leading to the creation of “Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo” (1963), the first Bhojpuri film. This endeavor earned him the title of the “Pitamah” (father) of Bhojpuri cinema. He continued to produce and direct Bhojpuri films, including “Hamaar Sansar” and the successful “Balam Pardesia” in the late 1970s, laying the foundation for the regional film industry.
Underappreciation in Hindi Cinema
Despite his significant contributions, Nazir Hussain did not receive the recognition he deserved within the Hindi film industry. Several factors contributed to this oversight:
Typecasting: His frequent portrayal of similar roles led to typecasting, limiting opportunities for diverse characters.
Focus on Lead Actors: The industry’s emphasis on lead actors often overshadowed the contributions of character actors like Hussain.
Regional Bias: His association with Bhojpuri cinema, considered regional, may have contributed to his marginalization in mainstream narratives.
These factors, combined with the industry’s hierarchical structure, resulted in a lack of awards and formal recognition for his work.
Legacy and Death
Nazir Hussain passed away on October 16, 1987, in Bombay (now Mumbai). His legacy endures through the films he acted in and the Bhojpuri cinema he helped establish. While he may not have received widespread acclaim during his lifetime, his contributions laid the groundwork for future generations in both Hindi and regional Indian cinema.
Nazir Hussain’s journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to becoming a stalwart in Indian cinema exemplifies dedication and passion. His story serves as a reminder of the countless artists whose work forms the backbone of the film industry, deserving recognition and appreciation.
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