A Look Back: The Golden Age of Comedy in Bollywood – Films & Actors You Can’t Miss
BOLLYWOOD: The late 1960s to 70s in Bollywood were a golden age for comedy films. A fantastic bunch of comedians had audiences rolling in the aisles with their impeccable timing, witty dialogues, and hilarious characters. These actors left an evergreen mark on Indian cinema, and their films continue to tickle funny bones even today. Let’s revisit 10 of these legendary comedians and some of their most iconic movies:
- Johnny Walker: Renowned for his drunken act and comic one-liners, Johnny Walker tickled audiences with his slapstick humor.
Top 5 Movies: Padosan (1968), Shor in the City (1972), Bombay to Goa (1972), Jewel Thief (1967), Sangam (1964)
- Mehmood: A versatile actor, Mehmood brought hilarious energy with his unique style and facial expressions.
Top 5 Movies: Pyaar Kiye Jaa (1966), Gumnaam (1965), Bombay 405 (1980), Dulhan Wahi Jo Piyar Kare (1970), Kunwara Badan (1968)
- Jagdeep:Jagdeep (1939-2020) was a versatile comedian known for his witty dialogues, hilarious expressions, and knack for physical comedy. He often played goofy or eccentric characters, bringing a unique charm to his roles. Jagdeep wasn’t restricted to one type of humor; he could be playfully mischievous or subtly sarcastic, keeping audiences entertained throughout his long career.
Top 5 Movies: Sholay (1975), Purana Mandir (1964), Bombay to Goa (1972), Swarg Narak (1978), Seeta Aur Geeta (1971)
- Keshto Mukherjee: Keshto Mukherjee (1925-1982) was a celebrated comedian in Hindi cinema, known for his natural acting and hilarious portrayals. He wasn’t limited to just one comedic style; he could bring characters to life through drunkenness, witty remarks, or even just his facial expressions.
Top 5 Movies: Padosan (1968), Teesri Kasam (1966), Bombay to Goa (1972), Sholay (1975), Zanjeer (1973)
- Dhumal: A veteran character actor, Dhumal’s comedic timing and quirky characters made him a favorite.
Top 5 Movies: Sadhu Aur Shaitan (1968), Anupama (1966), Padosan (1968), Bombay to Goa (1972), Jewel Thief (1967)
- Manorama: A phenomenal comedienne, Manorama’s powerful performances and comic dialogues were a delight to watch.
Top 5 Movies: Ek Phool Do Mali (1968), Mera Naam Joker (1970), Padosan (1968), Caravan (1971), Bombay to Goa (1972)
- Rajinder Nath: Rajendra Nath (1931-2008) was a prominent comedian in Bollywood known for his impeccable comedic timing and witty one-liners. He primarily excelled in portraying endearing and lovable characters, often the funny sidekick or the clueless friend. Rajendra Nath’s humor was often subtle and situational, relying on his expressive face and delivery to tickle audiences’ funny bones.
Top 5 Movies: Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon (1963), Mere Sanam (1965), Jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai (1961), Dil Deke Dekho (1959), An Evening in Paris (1967)
- Asrani: Asrani (born Govindlal Agrawal in 1941) is a celebrated comedian and supporting actor who left a lasting mark on Bollywood. Asrani could portray a wide range of comedic characters, from the jittery simpleton to the cunning schemer. His delivery of dialogues and reactions were spot-on, adding humor to even the most ordinary scenes. Asrani’s expressive face and exaggerated reactions became his trademark, leaving audiences in stitches.
Top 5 Movies: Padosan (1968), Abhimaan (1973), Bawarchi (1972), Khel Khel Mein (1975), Do Anjaam (1973)
- Kishore Kumar: The multi-talented Kishore Kumar wasn’t just a legendary singer. His comedic roles displayed his brilliance in physical comedy and witty dialogues.
Top 5 Movies: Do Badan (1966), Padosan (1968), Half Ticket (1967), Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958), Man Mauji (1966)
- Om Prakash: Om Prakash (1919-1998) was a prominent character actor in Bollywood, leaving a lasting legacy with his diverse and memorable performances. He wasn’t just funny; he excelled at portraying characters that were affable, humorous, and sometimes even scheming.
Top 5 Movies: Gopi (1970), Hulchul (1971), Namak Halaal (1982), Sharaabi (1984), Chupke Chupke (1975)
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