Next person biography:
Prem Chopra is an Indian actor who has been active in the Hindi and Punjabi film industries for over six decades. Born on September 23, 1935, in Lahore, Punjab, to a Hindu family, Prem was the third of six children. His father, Ranbirlal Chopra, was an attorney-general's office worker, and his mother, Rooprani Chopra, was a homemaker.
Prem was brought up in Shimla, where he developed a strong interest in the performing arts. He graduated in arts from Punjab University and initially worked at the Times of India's circulation department in Bombay (now Mumbai) after his graduation. However, he continued to pursue his passion for acting and started visiting film studios to try his luck in the industry.
Prem made his Bollywood debut in 1960 with the film Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh, but it did not do well. He then appeared in a Punjabi film, Chaudhary Karnail Singh, opposite established star Jabeen Jalil, which won a National Award and helped him gain recognition. However, it was not until 1964 that he had a hit Hindi film, Shaheed, in which he played a positive leading role.
Prem's performances in the 1960s, including films like Sikandar E Azam, Nishan, Kunwari, Teesri Manzil, Mera Saaya, and Upkar, showcased his versatility as an actor. He then became a villain in many films, including Do Raaste, which co-starred Rajesh Khanna. The duo worked together in 19 films between 1969 and 1991.
Prem has also appeared in several critically acclaimed films, including Hulchul, Samaj Ko Badal Dalo, and Kati Patang. He has played positive roles in films like Shaheed, Kunwari, Samaj Ko Badal Dalo, and Hulchul, and has been praised for his performances in these roles.
Prem has been married to Uma, the younger sister of Krishna Kapoor, Prem-nath, and Rajendranath, since 1969. They have three daughters, Rakita, Punita, and Prerana.
