Veteran actor Jackie Shroff paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary dancer-actor Bhagwan Dada as he revisited the iconic song 'Shola Jo Bhadke', commemorating the cinema icon on his 24th death anniversary. Jackie took to Instagram to share a monochrome picture of Bhagwan Dada along with a video clip of the late star performing the evergreen number from the 1951 classic "Albela."
Remembering a Bollywood Legend
In his Instagram post, Jackie Shroff wrote, "Remembering Bhagwan Dada on his death anniversary," accompanied by the nostalgic visuals. Bhagwan Dada is best remembered for his social film Albela and its memorable songs, including "Shola Jo Bhadke" and "O Beta Ji O Babuji Qismat Ki Hawa Kabhi Naram." His career spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Bhagwan Dada's Illustrious Career
Bhagwan Dada began his journey in the silent film era with the movie Criminal. He co-directed his first film, Bahadur Kisa,n, with Chandrarao Kadam in 1938. From 1938 to 1949, he directed a series of low-budget stunt and action films that gained immense popularity among the working classes. One of his notable works during this period was the Tamil film Vana Mohini.
In 1942, he ventured into production by establishing Jagruti Pictures. He later purchased land and set up Jagriti Studios in Chembur in 1947. Following advice from the legendary Raj Kapoor, Bhagwan Dada shifted his focus to making social films, leading to the creation of Albela. The film starred Bhagwan Dada and Geeta Bali, with music composed by his friend Chitalkar, also known as C. Ramchandra.
He continued to contribute to cinema by directing and acting in Bhagam Bhag in 1956. However, his later years were marked by financial hardships, and he passed away in 2002 due to a massive heart attack.
Jackie Shroff's Additional Birthday Wish
In the same Instagram post, Jackie Shroff also extended birthday wishes to actress Urmila Matondkar on her 52nd birthday. He included the song "Tanha Tanha Yahan Pe Jeena" from their 1995 blockbuster Rangeela in a video montage featuring a series of the actress's pictures. For the caption, he wrote, "Happiness Always."
The Legacy of Rangeela
Rangeela, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, recently completed three decades in the Hindi film industry and was re-released on the big screen. The film revolves around Mili's ambition to become a famous actor, as she navigates the challenges when both Raj Kamal, a noted actor, and Munna, her childhood friend, fall in love with her. The movie also stars Aamir Khan and Jackie Shroff, adding to its star-studded appeal.
This tribute by Jackie Shroff not only honors the memory of Bhagwan Dada but also highlights the enduring legacy of classic Bollywood films and their impact on contemporary cinema.
