Sunil Dutt | |
|---|---|
 Dutt in 2005 | |
| Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports | |
| In office 22 May 2004 – 25 May 2005 | |
| Prime Minister | Manmohan Singh |
| Preceded by | Vikram Verma |
| Succeeded by | Mani Shankar Aiyar |
| Member of Parliament,Lok Sabha | |
| In office 6 October 1999 – 25 May 2005 | |
| Preceded by | Madhukar Sarpotdar |
| Succeeded by | Priya Dutt |
| Constituency | Mumbai North West, Maharashtra |
| In office 31 December 1984 – 16 May 1996 | |
| Preceded by | Ram Jethmalani |
| Succeeded by | Madhukar Sarpotdar |
| Constituency | Mumbai North West, Maharashtra |
| Personal details | |
| Born | Balraj Raghunath Dutt (1929-06-06)6 June 1929 |
| Died | 25 May 2005(2005-05-25) (aged 75) Mumbai,Maharashtra, India |
| Cause of death | Heart attack |
| Political party | Indian National Congress |
| Spouse | |
| Children | 3, includingSanjay Dutt andPriya Dutt |
| Relatives | SeeDutt family |
| Residence | |
| Alma mater | Jai Hind College |
| Occupation |
|
| Awards | Padma Shri (1968) |
| Signature |  |
Sunil Dutt (bornBalraj Raghunath Dutt; 6 June 1929 – 25 May 2005) was an Indian actor, film producer, director, and politician known for his work inHindi cinema. He acted in more than 80 films over a career spanning five decades and was the recipient of threeFilmfare Awards, including two for Best Actor. Regarded as one of the most successful and finest actors in the history ofIndian cinema, Dutt was known for his unique style and delivering impactful messages through his films.[2] In 1968, theGovernment of India honoured him with thePadma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian award, for his contribution to Indian cinema.[3][4]
Dutt made his film debut in 1955 with theHindi filmRailway Platform.[5] He rose to prominence with the highly successful films:Ek Hi Raasta (1956) andMother India (1957), and consistently starred in several top–grossing Indian films from the late-1950s to the 1970s, such asSadhna,Sujata,Gumrah,Waqt,Khandan,Mera Saaya,Hamraaz,Milan,Mehrban,Padosan,Heera,Zakhmee,Nagin,Daaku Aur Jawan andJaani Dushman.[6] Some of his acclaimed performances includeInsān Jaag Utha,Chhaya,Mujhe Jeene Do,Nartaki,Yaadein,Gaban,Chirag,Darpan,Reshma Aur Shera,36 Ghante,Muqabla andDard Ka Rishta.[7][8] Beginning in the early 1980s, Dutt featured in supporting roles in notable films such asShaan,Badle Ki Aag,Kala Dhanda Goray Log,Watan Ke Rakhwale,Kurbaan andMunna Bhai M.B.B.S (his final film).[9][10]
In 1995, he was honoured with theFilmfare Lifetime Achievement Award for his five decades of contribution to the film industry.[11]
In 1958, Dutt married hisMother India co-starNargis. Together, they had three children, including actorSanjay Dutt.[12] In 1984, he joined theIndian National Congress and was elected toParliament of India for five terms, representing the constituency ofMumbai North West. Dutt served as theMinister for Youth Affairs and Sports in theManmohan Singh government (2004–2005) and asSheriff of Mumbai.[13][14]
Sunil Dutt was born on 6 June 1929, inNakka Khurd in theJhelum District of thePunjab Province ofBritish India (now inPunjab, Pakistan) into aPunjabi Hindu family. His birth name was Balraj Dutt, and he was born to father Diwan Raghunath Dutt and mother Kulwanti Devi Dutt.[15][1][3][16]
Dutt belonged to aHussaini Brahminlandlord family.[17][18] Dutt had a younger brother, Som Dutt, and a younger sister, Raj Rani Bali.[19] Dutt's father died when he was five years old. Dutt was 18, when thePartition of India took place, and it began incitingHindu-Muslim violence across the country.[18] A Muslim friend of Dutt's father named Yakub saved their entire family, and helped them safely relocate to India.[20] The family resettled in the small village of Mandauli on the bank of the riverYamuna, located in theYamunanagar District ofEast Punjab (now inHaryana).
Dutt later moved to theAminabad Bazaar neighbourhood inLucknow,United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh) with his mother for some time before college. He then moved toBombay, where he attendedJai Hind College of theUniversity of Bombay and took up a job at theBEST Transportation Engineering division.[3][21] He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree inHistory (Hons.) in 1954.[3][22]
DirectorRamesh Saigal played a key role in introducing Dutt, who was hosting the radio show Lipton Ki Mehfil on Radio Ceylon, to the film industry by casting him inRailway Platform (1955).[23] Saigal met Dutt in 1953, while Dutt was reporting on the filmShikast. Impressed by Dutt's voice and personality, Saigal offered him a role in an upcoming project. Dutt declined the offer as he had promised his mother that he would first complete his education. After graduating, he acted in Saigal's film. To avoid confusion with the established actorBalraj Sahni, Saigal suggested that he adopt a new screen name and gave him the name "Sunil Dutt".[24][25][26]
He shot to stardom withB. R. Chopra'sfamily dramaEk Hi Raasta (1956) oppositeMeena Kumari andMehboob Khan'sepic dramaMother India (1957) oppositeNargis.[27][28][29] WhileEk Hi Raasta was a major commercial success,Mother India emerged as a blockbuster and became thehighest-grossing film of 1957. Although Dutt was relatively new to the industry at the time, he took on the challenging role of Birju, the rebellious son of Radha (Nargis). His performance earned widespread critical recognition, and the character has been consideredBollywood's first anti-hero.[30][31] While reviewingMother India, Shaikh Ayaz ofThe Indian Express found him "rogue and devilish".[32]Mother India was also dubbed in several European languages, including Spanish, French and Russian.[33] It went on to win several accolades and was featured in the book1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die.[34][35]
Dutt once again collaborated with B. R. Chopra inSadhna (1958).[36] The film was a major box office success and went on to become a superhit.[37] The following year, he starred inBimal Roy'sSujata andShakti Samanta'sInsān Jaag Utha.[38] While the former was a huge commercial success,Insaan Jaag Utha did moderately well.[39]Sujata also won theNational Film Award for Third Best Feature Film (Hindi).[40] From 1960 to 1962, he starred in moderately successful films, such asHum Hindustani in 1960,Chhaya in 1961 andMain Chup Rahungi in 1962.[41] The year 1963 brought him into the big league with the superhitsGumrah andMujhe Jeene Do.[42] Along with their commercial success, both films received positive reviews from critics. In the same year, he made his debut as a producer with alegal dramaYeh Rastey Hain Pyar Ke, based on the infamous Nanavati case and later producedMujhe Jeene Do.[43] For his portrayal of a notorious bandit inMujhe Jeene Do, Dutt won his firstFilmfare Award for Best Actor.[44] Madhavi Pothukuchi ofThePrint opined, "Sunil Dutt did what many other leading actors wouldn’t have done taken up a negative role at the peak of his career, and turned it into one of his best without getting stereotyped. He also chose to highlight an issue that nobody seemed to want to talk about and with that, he won the Indian audience all over again."[45] In 1964, he directed, produced and starred inYaadein, an experimental film with him as the sole actor.[46] It did not performed well at the box office, but received critical praise and wonNational Film Award for Second Best Feature Film (Hindi) as well as an entry inGuinness Book of World Records in the categoryFewest actors in a narrative film.[47][46] Dutt's performance was highly appreciated by the audience.Yaadein was well received for its distinctive concept and is considered a film that was ahead of its time.[48]
Dutt reached the peak of his success during the mid-1960s.[27] In 1965, he featured inYash Chopra's ensemblemasala filmWaqt.[49] It opened to an excellent response from the audience and proved to be a major blockbuster as well as the highest-grossing film of the year.[50] It is widely regarded as a cult classic.[51] His next release wasA. Bhimsingh'sfamily dramaKhandan, which became a superhit. Dutt was praised for his portrayal of a paralyzed, dedicated family man and earned his secondFilmfare Award for Best Actor.[52] In 1966, he starred inRaj Khosla'sthriller filmMera Saaya oppositeSadhana andLekh Tandon'shistorical dramaAmrapali oppositeVyjayanthimala. WhileMera Saaya was a blockbuster,Amrapali failed commercially but was critically praised.[53][54] The soundtrack ofMera Saaya composed byMadan Mohan was highly successful and one of the best-selling Hindi film albums of the 1960s.[55] Its songs, such as "Jhumka Gira Re", "Mera Saaya Saath Hoga" and "Aap Ke Pehaloon Mein", remain popular. For his performance inMera Saaya, Dinesh Raheja commented that Dutt made an "endearing" husband and suffused his romantic scenes with warmth.[56] In 1967, Dutt consolidated his stardom with three major commercial successes.[27] He first starred inAdurthi Subba Rao'sreincarnation dramaMilan.[57] A remake of Telugu hitMooga Manasulu (1964),Milan was successful at the box office with its songs "Sawan Ka Mahina", "Main Toh Deewana", "Bol Gori Bol Tera Kaun Piya" and "Ram Kare Aisa Ho Jaye" topping the music charts that year.[58] For portraying an innocent boatman in the film, Dutt was nominated for theFilmfare Award for Best Actor category and won his firstBFJA Award for Best Actor (Hindi).[58] His next release was Bhimsingh drama filmMehrban, alongsideAshok Kumar,Nutan andMehmood, where he played a dedicated and honest man.[59]Mehrban was also a commercially successful.[41] He concluded the year with B.R. Chopra'ssuspense thrillerHamraaz which received positive reviews from critics and emerged as a blockbuster, marking Dutt's third consecutive hit of the year.[60][61]Hindustan Times commended Dutt for "beautifully playing a guilt-ridden husband".[62]
"Playing the epitome of loyalty, Sunil Dutt relied on that rare ability to project honest sentiment."
In 1968, he delivered another superhit inJyoti Swaroop'smusical comedy filmPadosan, where he played a buffoonish lover named Bhola.[64] Indiatimes ranked the film among the "Top 25 Must See Bollywood Films".[65] His portrayal of Bhola, which differed from his earlier rugged roles, was lauded by critics as an "endearing" character and his comedic performance showcased his versatility.[66]Eastern Eye reported thatPadosan is widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s funniest and most entertaining films, and Dutt received appreciation for breaking his traditional heroic image by portraying "a simpleton with innocence".[67]
The year 1969 saw the rise ofRajesh Khanna, who gained nationwide popularity with filmsAradhana andDo Raaste.[68] With his emergence, several established stars, including Dutt, faced challenges in maintaining their earlier momentum.[69] Nevertheless, between 1969 to 1972, Dutt continued to deliver a few successful films, including Raj Khosla'sChirag (1969) andRaja Nawathe'sBhai-Bhai (1970). In the latter, he played adual role astwins.[70][71] His other films such asReshma Aur Shera (which he also directed),Jwala,Zindagi Zindagi andZameen Aasmaan were not commercially successful.[6] Despite its commercial failure,Reshma Aur Shera received critical acclaim and gainedcult status. Critics lauded Dutt for his performance and direction, calling it a "blood-splashed love story set in a bleak but beautiful desert" that establishes "the primacy of love and the futility of violence", as it features both gore and tragedy.[72][73]
The year 1973 marked Dutt's return to the big league withSultan Ahmed's dacoit dramaHeera, which was a huge hit.[74] The success ofHeera was followed by other superhits,Pran Jaye Per Vachan Na Jaye (1974),Geeta Mera Naam (1974),Zakhmee (1975) andUmar Qaid (1975), cementing his position as a leading star of the era.[75][76] By this period, Dutt had adopted a new screen persona, shifting to action-oriented and occasional negative roles.[6]
In 1976, Dutt had two releases -Rajkumar Kohli'shorror filmNagin and Raj Khosla's action dramaNehle Pe Dehla.[77][78]Nagin which featured an ensemble cast, includingReena Roy,Feroz Khan,Sanjay Khan andRekha went on to become a blockbuster at the box office.[79] On the other hand,Nehle Pe Dehla, co-starringSaira Banu andVinod Khanna, was also a major commercial success.[79] The following year, he delivered two more successes withO. P. Ralhan'sPaapi andShibu Mitra'sAakhri Goli.[80] In 1978, Dutt donned the director's hat forDaaku Aur Jawan, co-starring Vinod Khanna, Reena Roy andLeena Chandavarkar.[81] The film opened to positive response from critics and emerged as a superhit at the box office.[82] In the same year, he also appeared inRam Kasam oppositeRekha andBindiya Goswami, where he once again played dual role as twins andKaala Aadmi opposite Saira Banu. WhileRam Kasam was a commercially successful,Kaala Aadmi failed to do well.[82] In 1979, he reunited with Rajkumar Kohli for the multi-starrer horror filmJaani Dushman, which had a bumper opening and emerged as a blockbuster as well as one of the highest-grossing films of that year.[83] Dutt collaborated with Kohli again in the same year forMuqabla.[84] The film featured the chartbuster song "Govinda Govinda", a duet byMohammed Rafi andKishore Kumar and was a hit at the box office.[85][83] He concluded the year with another critical and commercial success in the action drama filmAhinsa.[83]
Dutt began the new decade with an important supporting role inRamesh Sippy's mega-budgetaction crime dramaShaan (1980).[86] The film received positive reviews from critics, but ended up as a moderately successful venture due to its high costs.[87] In 1981, he launched his sonSanjay Dutt's career withRocky, which became a hit at the box office.[88] Shortly before the film's release, his wife Nargis died ofpancreatic cancer. Dutt founded theNargis Dutt Foundation in her memory for the care of cancer patients.[89] In 1982, he appeared alongsideDharmendra andJeetendra in Rajkumar Kohli's action thrillerBadle Ki Aag, which was a box office success.[90] The following year, he directed, produced and starred in the drama filmDard Ka Rishta, alongsideAshok Kumar,Reena Roy,Smita Patil andKhushbu Sundar.[91]Dard Ka Rishta received positive reviews from critics and was a hit at the box office.[92] Dutt experienced a minor setback between 1984 and 1985 with only one successful filmRaaj Tilak while others such asLaila,Yaadon Ki Zanjeer andFaasle failed both critically and commercially.[93][94] This changed in 1986 with the hit filmsKala Dhanda Goray Log (1986) andWatan Ke Rakhwale (1987).[95][96]
After appearing inDharamyudh (1988), Dutt took a brief hiatus and returned to big screen in 1991 with adowry-themed filmYeh Aag Kab Bujhegi, which marked his last directorial venture. That same year, he also starred inKurbaan andPratigyabadh. WhilePratigyabadh was a moderate success at the box office,Kurbaan emerged as a major commercial success, andYeh Aag Kab Bujhegi performed fairly well.[97] Parishmita Saikia ofNews18 foundYeh Aag Kab Bujhegi to be a "powerful" film and praised Dutt’s portrayal of a "grieving" father who wants justice for his daughter, saying that his emotional journey and the film’s message deeply resonated with parents across the country.[98] Before retiring from films, he was last seen in early 1990s releases such asKshatriya,Parampara andPhool, after which he chose to focus entirely on his political career.[24]
Dutt returned to films once again in 2003 withRajkumar Hirani'ssatirical comedy dramaMunna Bhai M.B.B.S., in which he played the father of his real-life son.[99]Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. opened to highly positive reviews from critics. It won several awards and was declared a blockbuster at the box office and achieved silver jubilee status (25 week run), making it one of only eight films to have achieved this status since the year 2000.[99] It is considered as a classic and one of the best films ever made in the history of Indian cinema.[100]Hindustan Times wrote that Dutt’s portrayal as the "loving yet strict" father ofMunna Bhai contributed to the film’s humor.[62] The father–son chemistry also garnered appreciation from critics as one of the most genuine and unforgettable on-screen portrayals in Bollywood.[101] It marked Sunil Dutt's last film appearance; he died two years after its release.[102]Rediff.com described his presence as "the most appropriate screen goodbye".[103]
In 1982, Dutt was appointed as theSheriff of Bombay, an apolitical titular position bestowed on him by theGovernment of Maharashtra for a year. He was elected as a Member of Parliament from North West Mumbai for five times (1984, 1989, 1991 [resigned in 1993 in protest over religious violence], 1999, and 2004). He worked actively for the welfare of slum dwellers, refugees and displaced people.[104][105]
In 1987, when Punjab was facingheightened militancy, Dutt, accompanied by his daughterPriya, undertook a 2,000 km, 76-day-longMahashantiPadyatra (journey on foot) from Bombay to Amritsar (Golden Temple) to promote communal harmony and brotherhood.[106][107][108] During thepadyatra, he attended more than 500 roadside meetings and suffered a bout of jaundice and blistered feet, but recovered soon. He always stressed that violence would not help any cause. Dutt later undertook a similar march while protesting against the proliferation of nuclear weapons, walking fromHiroshima toNagasaki to demand a global ban on nuclear arms.[105] His political career was halted for some years in the early 1990s while he worked to free his son,Sanjay, who had been arrested for possessing anAK-56 rifle, which he claimed was meant to protect his family after the bomb blasts in Bombay.[109]
After his son's release, Dutt contested in 1999 election from the same constituency and won. He was re-elected in 2004 and became Cabinet Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports inManmohan Singh's government. He won several national awards for his contributions to peace and communal harmony which includes the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Award for National Integration and Communal Harmony (1997), the Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Award for International Peace, Communal Harmony, Unity and National Integration (1997), and theRajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award (1998).[110]
Dutt was among the first Bollywood actors to build a successful career in politics. He earned his reputation through persistent efforts, including one of his earliest public acts—a nearly month-long peace march in Punjab during the early 1980s. At a time when the region was experiencing violent unrest due to the Sikh separatist movement, his march stood out for its courage and dedication to promoting communal harmony.[111][112]
Dutt married actressNargis, aMuslim, on 11 March 1958. Prior to their marriage, Nargis converted toHinduism and adopted the name Nirmala Dutt.[113][114] Reportedly, Dutt saved her life from a fire on the sets ofMother India.[115] They had three children:Sanjay Dutt, Namrata Dutt, andPriya Dutt. Sanjay went on to become a successful film actor. Namrata married actorKumar Gaurav, son of veteran actorRajendra Kumar, who had appeared alongside Dutt and Nargis inMother India. Priya became a politician and a Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha).[115]
After marrying Dutt, Nargis revealed that he was the first person who treat her like a normal human being and he was always there for her in her hard times. If he hadn't come into her life, she would've ended her life.[12] She and Dutt formed the Ajanta Arts Cultural Troupe, which involved several leading actors and singers of the time and performed at remote frontiers to entertain the Indian soldiers at border. It was the first troupe to perform inDhaka, after the liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971.[116]
Dutt launched his younger brother, Som Dutt, who had worked as a production assistant, in his productionMan Ka Meet (1969), which also marked the debut ofVinod Khanna andLeena Chandavarkar. But Som failed to create on-screen magic and went on to act in 22 films. Eventually, he decided to move away from the film industry.[117]
Nargis died on 3 May 1981 due to pancreatic cancer. Dutt buried her body instead of cremated as she had made it clear to him before her death that she wanted to be buried next to her late mother.[118] One year after her death, theNargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Foundation was established by Dutt in her memory.[119] Later years, he worked as a tireless campaigner and raising money for the help of poor cancer patients through charities and fundraisers all across the world.[111]
In 2001, Dutt survived an air crash. He sustained a dislocated shoulder and a fractured leg and was admitted toBreach Candy Hospital for treatment.[120][121] According to reports, the small aircraft he was travelling in developed a technical issue. Dutt helped his co-passengers exit the plane to safety before escaping himself.[122]
Dutt died of a heart attack in his sleep on 25 May 2005 at his residence inBandra,West Mumbai, at age 75.[123] He was the Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports in the Union Government led byManmohan Singh and was the Member of Parliament fromNorth-West Mumbai until his death. He was succeeded as Minister byMani Shankar Aiyar. He was cremated with full state honours at the Santa Cruz Crematorium in Mumbai.[124]His body was draped in the Indian tri-colour and carried by the military.[125]
After his death, his seat in the Parliament was contested by his daughter,Priya Dutt, who won it and was a Member of Parliament until May 2014.[126] In 2005, Dutt was posthumously honoured with the Phalke Ratna Award by theDadasaheb Phalke Academy.[127]
Following his demise, numerous figures expressed their condolences. PresidentAPJ Abdul Kalam called Dutt "a gem of a human being".[128] Former Prime MinisterManmohan Singh said, "A colorful and charismatic personality and a celebrity in the world of cinema, Sunil Dutt touched the millions in our country through many of his purposeful and socially relevant roles in numerous films."[128]Lata Mangeshkar said, "He was a rare human being. People like him are difficult to find."[129] ActressShabana Azmi stated, "It comes as such a deep shock that Dutt Sahab is not with us. He was not only great just to those who work in the industry but also to the people of country."[128] Congress leaders also expressed their grief,Salman Khurshid said, "In politics, people always poke fun at each other. But Sunil Dutt never did that. He was a good, clean man."[130]Rajeev Shukla said, "He was a wonderful human being. A gentleman in politics. In his death, the polity has lost a valuable leader."[130]Prabha Rau termed Dutt "a man of peace".[130] Film criticSaibal Chatterjee remarked, "His demise has robbed us of a stellar personality. He sought and surmounted challenges all his life."[131]
Throughout his film career, Dutt acted in a variety of genres, from romance and action thrillers to social dramas and comedies. In addition to acting, he also worked as a producer and director. His performances established him as one of the greatest actors in the industry, and he has been cited as the most handsome leading man.[132][18] Recognised as a method actor and a dedicated politician, he was known for his honesty, compassion, perseverance, hard work and simplicity.[133]Rediff.com called him "Hindi Cinema’s man of solid character", adding that "his earnest sincerity reflected entirely in all his roles, be it Birju inMother India or Bhola inPadosan. Besides acting, he successfully made the rare transition from film to politics".[134]Filmfare summarized his filmography as "remarkable, full of cinematic gems".[135]Times Now placed him 2nd in its list of the "Most Good Looking Actors on Indian Screen".[136] Dutt appeared inBox Office India's "Top Actors" list in 1966 and 1967.[137] In 2022, he was placed inOutlook India's "75 Best Bollywood Actors" list.[138]
Dinesh Raheja ofRediff.com noted that Sunil Dutt capitalised his ability to jump genres and expand his oeuvre at different stages of his career. His willingness to experiment with cinema led him to star in offbeat films likePadosan,Amrapali, the villain inGeeta Mera Naam and bankroll films likeYaadein (starring just one man --himself),Mujhe Jeene Do (a reformist saga) and the stark desert epicReshma Aur Shera.[6] Farhana Farook ofFilmfare remarked, "Sunil Dutt was way beyond his films."[24] Subhash K. Jha noted that "Dutt did not hesitate in doing women-oriented films which addressed the issues of their upliftment, empowerment and equality". He referenced some of Dutt's films in which he played a reformist, such asSujata,Sadhna,Nartaki,Chirag,Darpan andZindagi Zindagi.[139]The Guardian noticed that Dutt maintained an "unpretentious style" and retained his natural accent throughout his career.[140] Surendra Miglani fromThe Tribune characterised Dutt's acting style as "speaking with his eyes" and "playing every role with aplomb". He also mentioned that Dutt consciously avoided blinking while performing intense scenes, as it would dilute the ferocity of his expressions.[141]
His filmsMother India,Padosan andMunna Bhai M.B.B.S were voted among the greatest films ever made in polls conducted byNews18.[142] His directorial films received international recognition,Yaadein was selected in theGuinness Book of World Records in the categoryFewest actors in a narrative film andReshma Aur Shera was nominated for theGolden Berlin Bear at theBerlin International Film Festival.[46][143] In 2022, criticSukanya Verma included his performances inMother India andMujhe Jeene Do in her list of "25 Deadliest Bollywood Dacoits", noting that "he was usually mild-mannered but could display great intensity in his performances".[144]Mid-day has described Dutt as a stalwart of Indian cinema who graced the silver screen with his remarkable talent, charisma and versatility.[145]
Dutt was also credited with giving major breaks to then-struggling actors such asAmitabh Bachchan,Vinod Khanna,Ranjeet,Shakti Kapoor andJohnny Lever through his home productionsReshma Aur Shera,Rocky andDard Ka Rishta respectively.[146][147][148]
Shaikh Ayaz ofThe Indian Express called Dutt "a screen legend" and wrote, "His goodwill has inspired the film industry, showing what a good husband and father he was, and a man who always led from the front."[146] Journalist V. Gangadhar stated, "Sunil Dutt was much more than an actor. With an ear to the ground and a hand on the pulse of the people, he lived by his convictions and led from the front. He never allowed personal crises to halt his main work."[149] DirectorYash Chopra said, "Whatever he did in films, it was with great dedication and from the heart; no one can reproach his sincerity. He was always ready, even for a guest role. I have never seen such a decent human being."[150] Journalist Rauf Ahmed revealed that Dutt was always willing to help others and described him as "the man whose stardom wouldn’t dare to change, who believed in moving forward and carried no baggage from the things that did not work out in life".[21] Jayant K. Sinha ofThe Economic Times acknowledged Dutt as a "man of conviction, patience, courage and character". He further wrote, "Dutt survived many personal tragedies. Despite being a doughty politician and celebrity, he was humble and ready to fight for justice."[151]Reader’s Digest described Dutt as a "rare individual" who balanced stardom with selfless public service, highlighting his humanitarian values and political integrity.[152] ActorAkshay Kumar's hairstyle inAction Replayy (2010) was inspired by Dutt's long-haired look inZakhmee (1975).[153] ActorParesh Rawal portrayed Dutt in the 2018 filmSanju and said, "I may have done some good deeds in my past life that I got to play a noble person like Mr Sunil Dutt."[154]
%2c_the_award_being_received_by_his_daughter_Ms._Priya_Dutt_(Member_of_Parliament%2c_Lok_Sabha).jpg)
Dutt had expressed during his lifetime that he did not wish to have any postal stamps, statues, roads, or organisations made in his honour. He wanted to be remembered for his work. In accordance with his wishes, nothing has been built or named after him.[162] However, his autograph has been preserved atBollywood Walk of Fame atBandra Bandstand.[163] In 2005, an event was organised at a film festival to honour Dutt's life and contributions.[164] In 2010, a commemorative postage stamp of Dutt was issued byIndian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA).[165]
Paying tribute to him, his co-actresses such asVyjayanthimala said, "He was a true gentleman, a progressive man and a rational artiste."[166]Asha Parekh said, "Dutt Saab was God’s child. He was a saint in the truest sense of the word. We didChirag together where I had played a blind girl. He was so supportive and gentle."[166]Mala Sinha said, "Sunil Dutt was so warm and respectful. He was so punctual during the shootings and he always had kind words for everyone on the sets."[166]Amitabh Bachchan praised Dutt's performance inMother India and acknowledged him as Bollywood's first 'Angry Young Man'.[167] SingerMahendra Kapoor, who had sung several songs for Dutt's films, particularly Gumrah, Waqt andHamraaz, said, "He was always very happy, full of good spirits and always forward-looking. His spirit was so strong that it carried him and all of us along with him."[168]
In 2019, Nivedita Mishra ofHindustan Times described Dutt as "a gentleman actor with Gandhian values". She also highlighted his humility, simplicity and commitment to public service.[112] In the same year,Sanjay Dutt dedicated his first Marathi film production,Baba, to his father.[169] In 2022,ShemarooMe gave tribute to Dutt through the showsScreen Legends andThe Thorough Gentleman.[170][171][172] In 2023,CNN-News18 referred to Dutt as a "dazzling actor" and highlighted his "most memorable movie roles".[173] On his 95th birth anniversary, Radio City published a tribute article, stating, "With a career spanning five decades, Sunil Dutt left an indelible mark on Bollywood with his powerful performances and enduring charm. He explored various genres, showcasing his versatility as an actor. But his life story goes beyond the glitz and glamour, revealing a man who battled personal struggles and emerged stronger, solidifying his position as a true legend."[174]
| Year | Film | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1955 | Railway Platform | Ram | |
| Kundan | Amrit | ||
| 1956 | Ek-Hi-Raasta | Amar | |
| Rajdhani | N/A | ||
| Kismet Ka Khel | Prakash Verma | ||
| 1957 | Payal | Mohan | |
| Mother India | Birju | ||
| 1958 | Sadhna | Professor Mohan | |
| Post Box 999 | Vikas | ||
| 1959 | Sujata | Adhir | |
| Insaan Jaag Utha | Ranjeet | ||
| Didi | Gopal | ||
| 1960 | Usne Kaha Tha | Nandu | |
| Hum Hindustani | Surendra Nath | ||
| Ek Phool Char Kaante | Sanjeev | ||
| Duniya Jhukti Hai | Mohan / Bankelal[a] | ||
| 1961 | Chhaya | Arun / Poet Rahi | |
| 1962 | Main Chup Rahungi | Kamal Kumar | |
| Jhoola | Dr. Arun | ||
| 1963 | Gumraah | Rajendra | |
| Aaj Aur Kal | Dr. Sanjay | ||
| Yeh Rastey Hain Pyar Ke | Anil Sahni | also producer | |
| Nartakee | Professor Nirmal Kumar | ||
| Mujhe Jeene Do | Thakur Jarnail Singh | also producer, Won -Filmfare Award for Best Actor | |
| 1964 | Yaadein | Anil | also director and producer |
| Gazal | Ejaaz | ||
| Beti Bete | Ramu / Krishna | ||
| 1965 | Waqt | Advocate Ravi Khanna / Bablu | |
| Khandan | Govind Shankar Lal | Won - Filmfare Award for Best Actor | |
| 1966 | Mera Saaya | Thakur Rakesh Singh | |
| Gaban | Ramnath | ||
| Amrapali | MagadhSamratAjatashatru | ||
| Maitighar | Himself | Guest Appearance | |
| 1967 | Milan | Gopinath (Gopi) | Won -BFJA Award for Best Actor (Hindi) Nominated - Filmfare Award for Best Actor |
| Hamraaz | Kumar / S. N. Sinha | ||
| Mehrban | Kanhaiya | ||
| 1968 | Padosan | Bhola | |
| Sadhu Aur Shaitaan | Catholic Priest D'souza | Cameo (Uncredited) | |
| Gauri | Sunil Kumar | ||
| 1969 | Pyasi Sham | Raja | |
| Bhai Bahen | Surendra Pratap | ||
| Chirag | Ajay Singh | ||
| Meri Bhabhi | Raju | ||
| 1970 | Darpan | Balraj Dutt | |
| Bhai-Bhai | Deep / Ashok[a] | Double role | |
| 1971 | Reshma Aur Shera | Shera Singh | also director and producer |
| Jwala | Ajit | ||
| 1972 | Zindagi Zindagi | Dr. Sunil | |
| Zameen Aasmaan | Ravi | ||
| Jai Jwala | Major Anand | Special Appearance | |
| 1973 | Man Jeete Jag Jeet | Bagga Daaku / Baghel Singh | Punjabi film |
| Heera | Heera | ||
| 1974 | Kora Badan | Unnamed Dacoit | Cameo |
| Geeta Mera Naam | Suraj / Johnny | ||
| Pran Jaye Par Vachan Na Jaye | Raja Thakur | ||
| Dukh Bhanjan Tera Naam | Sadhu | Punjabi film; Cameo | |
| 36 Ghante | Himmat Singh | ||
| 1975 | Zakhmee | Anand | |
| Umar Qaid | Raja | ||
| Neelima | Sunil | Cameo | |
| Himalay Se Ooncha | Vijay | ||
| 1976 | Nagin | Vijay | |
| Nehle Pe Dehla | Sunil / Ram | also producer | |
| 1977 | Darinda | Krishna / Yogidutt | |
| Paapi | Raj Kumar | ||
| Sat Sri Akal | Pilot Sardar Hari Singh | Punjabi film | |
| Charandas | Advocate Tandon | Cameo | |
| Aakhri Goli | Vikram | ||
| 1978 | Ram Kasam | Bhola / Shankar[a] | Double role |
| Kaala Aadmi | Birju | ||
| Daaku Aur Jawan | Birju | also director | |
| 1979 | Muqabla | Vikram (Vicky) / Vinod | |
| Jaani Dushman | Lakhan | ||
| Ahinsa | Birju | ||
| Salaam Memsaab | Naresh Sarit | Cameo | |
| 1980 | Lahu Pukarega | Jitu | |
| Shaan | DSP Shiv Kumar | ||
| Yari Dushmani | Shambhu | ||
| Ganga Aur Suraj | Inspector Ganga | ||
| Ek Gunah Aur Sahi | Shankar Ramdas | ||
| 1981 | Rocky | Shankar | Cameo, also director |
| Meena Kumari Ki Amar Kahani | Himself | Documentary | |
| 1982 | Badle Ki Aag | Lakhan | |
| Dard Ka Rishta | Dr. Ravi Kant Sharma | also director and producer | |
| 1983 | Film Hi Film | Himself | Documentary |
| 1984 | Raaj Tilak | Jai Singh | |
| Laila | Dharamraj Singh / Thakur Prithviraj Singh[a] | Double role | |
| Yaadon Ki Zanjeer | Ravi Kumar | Delayed release | |
| 1985 | Faasle | Vikram | |
| 1986 | Kala Dhanda Goray Log | Gauri Shankar / Michael | |
| Mangal Dada | Mangal Dada | Delayed release | |
| 1987 | Watan Ke Rakhwale | Jailor Suraj Prakash | |
| Raj Kapoor | Himself | Documentary | |
| 1988 | Dharamyudh | Thakur Vikram Singh | |
| 1991 | Yeh Aag Kab Bujhegi | Professor Krishnanand | also director |
| Kurbaan | Prithvi Singh | ||
| Pratigyabadh | Pascal | ||
| Hai Meri Jaan | Telegram Wala | Cameo | |
| 1992 | Virodhi | Police Commissioner Jagdish Kapoor | |
| 1993 | Kshatriya | Maharaj Bhavani Singh | Special Appearance |
| Parampara | Thakur Bhavani Singh | ||
| Phool | Balram Choudhary | ||
| 2003 | Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. | Hari Prasad Sharma | Final film |
| 2007 | Om Shanti Om | MagadhSamratAjatashatru | Recreated via CGI in the song "Dhoom Tana", (archive footage) |
| International | |
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| National | |
| Artists | |
| Other | |
