Sudhir Aka Bhagwandas Mulchand Luthria - Notable Bollywood Villain

Sudhir, recognised by his characteristic voice and distinctive horseshoe moustache, was an iconic actor who is known for his films like Haqeeqat, Deewaar, Kaalia, Majboor, Sharaabi, Satte Pe Satta, Dharmatma, Dostana, Shaan, and Lal Baadshah.

Sudhir was born in Lahore on June 28, 1944, as Bhagwandas Mulchand Luthria. Sudhir's journey in the film industry began with an uncredited role in Dev Anand's Taxi Driver (1955), followed by small roles in Bambai Ki Billi (1960), Barood (1960), and Oomar Qaid (1961).

His first notable appearance was in the 1962 film "Prem Patra," where he played the role of Subhash. However, it was his performance in Chetan Anand's 1964 war film "Haqeeqat" that garnered him significant attention. The songs "Main Yeh Soch Kar" and "Hoke Majboor" from the movie in which he was featured are still remembered fondly.

In Apna Ghar Apni Kahani (1968), he was cast opposite Mumtaz, and the famous Mahendra Kapoor number "Jigar me dard kaisa" was portrayed by him. Mukesh's "mujhe raat din ye khayal hai" and Rafi's "mere dil pe andhera sa chhan laga" from Ek Phool Ek Bhool (1968) were also picturized on him.

Sudhir's unique voice, long moustache, and sideburns became his trademark, making him one of Bollywood's best-known villains from the 1970s through the 1990s. He often played the second-in-command to lead villains like Ajit, Prem Nath, and Pran. His roles ranged from a torturous police inspector to a sleazy man, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

One of his most celebrated roles was in the 1982 film "Satte Pe Satta," alongside Amitabh Bachchan. Sudhir's performance in this film, as well as in other Bachchan movies like "Majboor (1974)," "Deewaar (1975)," "Dostana (1980)," "Kaalia (1981)," "Shaan (1980)," "Sharaabi (1984)," "Ajooba (1991)," and "Lal Baadshah (1997)”.

Sudhir's filmography is extensive, with over 200 films to his credit. Notable appearances include "Khote Sikkay (1974)" and its sequel "Kachche Heere (1982)," "Dharmatma," "Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971)," and "Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971)."

Some of his other notable films include Gambler (1971), Joshila (1973), The Far Pavilions (1984), Meri Jung (1985), Elaan-E-Jung (1989), Sheshnaag (1990), Doodh Ka Karz (1990), Tahalka (1992), Shola Aur Shabnam (1992), Aankhen (1993), Raja Babu( 1994), Ekka Raja Rani (1994), Prem (1995), Raja (1995), Zamaana Deewana (1995), Dulhe Raja (1998), Baadshah (1999), Humraaz (2002).

His last film appearances were in '"Jhoom Barabar Jhoom (2007)" and "Victoria House (2009)." He also played episodic roles in the television series "CID" in 2003.

Despite his on-screen persona as a villain, Sudhir was known for his warm and affable nature off-screen. He was a junior to actor Sunil Dutt in college and was earlier married to model and actress Sheila Ray. His stepson, Ashok Banker, is a renowned author and columnist. Sudhir's nephew, Milan Luthria, is a noted Bollywood director.

On May 12, 2014, the film industry lost one of its most cherished actors. Sudhir passed away. Sudhir's impact on the portrayal of villains in Indian cinema is unparalleled. 

As we remember Sudhir, we celebrate the life of a man who was much more than the characters he played on screen—a true legend of Hindi cinema.