Prithviraj Kapoor Birthday, November 3

Prithviraj Kapoor Born: November 3, 1906, in Samundri, Punjab (now Pakistan) Died: 1972

Career Highlights:

• Pioneer of Indian cinema, started in silent films
• First major breakthrough: Alam Ara (1931), India’s first sound film
• Famous roles: Alexander in Sikandar (1941), Emperor Akbar in Mughal-e-Azam (1960)
• Founded Prithvi Theatre in 1944, a traveling theater company

Family Legacy:

• Known as founder of Bollywood’s “First Family”
• Three sons became famous actors:
  • Raj Kapoor (“The Showman”)
  • Shammi Kapoor
  • Shashi Kapoor
• Legacy continues through grandchildren and great-grandchildren

Major Awards:

• Padma Bhushan (1969)
• Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1972, posthumous)

Significance:

• Pioneered social themes in Indian theater and cinema
• Established one of India’s most influential acting dynasties
• Left lasting impact on both film and theater in India

Bollywoodplus