Prayag Raj Sharma, a versatile writer, director, and actor, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Born in 1935 in Allahabad (now known as Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh, he contributed significantly to the film industry. Let’s delve into his remarkable journey:-
- Writer: Prayag Raj began his career as a writer, penning dialogues for over 100 films. Notable works include “Phool Bane Angaare” (1963), “Juaari” (1968), and “Roti” (1974).
- Director: In 1972, he directed his debut film, “Kundan.” His most iconic directorial venture was “Coolie” (1983). Other films he helmed include “Paap Aur Punya” (1974) and “Gair Kaanooni” (1989).
- Actor: Prayag Raj started as a child artist in the film “Aag” (1948).
His legacy endures, and his association with Prayagraj adds cultural significance to this historic city. Prayagraj, situated at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Sarasvati rivers, holds immense spiritual importance in Hindu scriptures.
Early Life and Career
- Prayag Raj was born in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh, India, in 1935.
- At the age of nine, he started working as a child actor with Prithvi Theatres, where he also wrote and directed plays.
- During his sixteen-year association with Prithvi Theatre, he formed a strong bond with actor Shashi Kapoor.
- Prayag played various roles on stage and off-stage, learning from actors like Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, and Shashi Kapoor.
- He made his debut as an actor in the film “Aag” (1948) and appeared in other films like “Awara” (1951).
Prayag Raj Biography Personal Life
Date of Birth | Year, 1935 |
Birthplace | Allahabad, United Provinces, British India (now Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India) |
Date of Death | 23 September 2023 |
Age (at the time of death) | 88 Years |
Place of Death | Bandra, Mumbai |
Death Cause | Age-related illness |
Nationality | • British Indian (1935-1947) • Indian (1947-2023) |
Hometown | Allahabad (now Prayagraj) |
School | He completed his schooling in Mumbai. |
Prayag Raj Family
- Father: Ram Das Azad (a popular poet)
- Wife: Pushpa Raaj (also known as Rabiya Khatoon)
- Sons: Aditya Raaj (assistant director) and Rahul Raaj (dubbing artist)
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Writing and Filmmaking
- Prayag Raj was more inclined towards writing and filmmaking.
- His first project as a writer was “Phool Bane Angaare” (1963), where he wrote dialogues.
- He collaborated with producer duo Ismail Merchant and James Ivory after working on the Hindi version of “The Householder” (1963).
- Prayag worked on several films, including “Ponga Pandit” (1975), “Coolie” (1983), and “Gair Kaanooni” (1989).
Prayag Raj Legacy and Passing
- Prayag Raj continued to contribute to Indian cinema until his passing.
- He died on 23 September 2023 at his residence in Bandra, Mumbai, due to age-related illness.
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FAQ
Prayagraj is believed to be the most important pilgrimage centre for Hindus. Traditionally river confluences are regarded as auspicious places, but in Sangam, the significance of the confluence is most pious because here, the holy Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati meet to become one.
Prayag is birth place of Som, Varuna and Prjapati. Prayag has been associated with mythological personalities in Brahmanical(Vedic) and Buddhist Literatures. It was the seat of the great sage Bhardwaj, sage Durvasa and Sage Pannas sage Bhardwaj lived here circa 5000BC and taught more than 10000 disciples.
In 2018 the government of Uttar Pradesh decided to change the name of the city from Allahabad to Prayagraj.
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