Goodbye, AK Hangal, cinema's 'common man' (1917-2012)

Aug 26, 2012 14:02pm

AK Hangal was born in Sialkot (Pakistan). He moved to Mumbai after India became an independent state. His film journey started with Basu Bhattacharya's 'Teesri Kasam' in 1966. This is a still from 'Bawarchi'.
Ramnath Sharma (Bawarchi, 1972) was a family fan despite being detached from it. Wasn't that a complex role to play?
Hangal's portrayal of Ram Shahstri, an upper cast Hindu, brought out the diversities of the traditional Indian society in 'Aaina' (1974).
Hangal was so real in 'Aaina' that his character Ram Shahstri didn't look like a hypothetical character even for a second.
Hangal played a benevolent father in 'Guddi' (1971). His relationship with his daughter Kusum (Jaya Bachchan) was a treat to watch.
The interesting father-daughter relationship set up the mood in the film.
Hangal played Professor Harbanslal in 'Chhupa Rustam' (1973).
He tries to find a mythical golden temple in the snow clad mountains in 'Chhupa Rustam'.
'Shaukeen' (1982) was a path-breaking film. For the first time Indian audiences saw such immoral oldies.
Inder Sen (AK Hangal) did all the things that a middle class man wants to do but can't do due to the societal pressure.
Hangal completed the shooting of 'Lagaan' (2001) despite being injured.
Though he had a cameo in 'Lagaan', still he left his mark as a character artist.
Hangal played Vishwanath Gupta in 'Shriman Shrimati' (1982).
He and Amol Palekar portrayed a very powerful father-son duo on screen.
Once again, AK Hangal fought for the common man as advocate Gupta in 'Meri Jung' (1985).
His verbal battle with Amrish Puri in the film was a hit among the audiences.
'Sholay' (1975) was the film in which he delivered his legendary dialogue, "Itna sannata kyun hai bhai!"
Rahim Chacha later became the synonym for a helpless old man.
AK Hangal's act as Bipinlal Pandey in 'Namak Haraam' (1973) was appreciated in all quarters.
Recently, AK Hangal was seen in a guest role in a TV serial called 'Madhubala'.
AK Hangal will remain in the memories of the common film enthusiasts for making his presence felt on the screen. RIP Hangal Saab!