Basic Information:
- Full Name: Amol Palekar
- Date of Birth: November 24, 1944
- Place of Birth: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Profession: Actor, Director, Producer
Early Life & Education:
Amol Palekar was born in Mumbai and pursued a degree in Fine Arts from Sir J. J. School of Art. Before entering films, he was actively involved in Marathi theatre, both as an actor and director.
Acting Career:
Amol Palekar gained popularity in the 1970s as a leading actor in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He was known for his roles as the “common man,” often portraying middle-class characters in slice-of-life films.
Notable Films:
- Rajnigandha (1974)
- Chhoti Si Baat (1976)
- Gol Maal (1979)
- Baton Baton Mein (1979)
- Rang Birangi (1983)
He worked frequently with directors like Basu Chatterjee and Hrishikesh Mukherjee, who specialized in realistic, relatable cinema.
Directorial Career:
In the 1980s, Amol Palekar transitioned to directing and became known for making films with strong storytelling and unique narratives.
Notable Films as Director:
- Ankahee (1985)
- Thodasa Roomani Ho Jaayen (1990)
- Paheli (2005) (India’s official entry to the Oscars)
He also directed TV shows like Kachchi Dhoop and Naqab.
Personal Life:
Amol Palekar was married to Chitra Palekar, a well-known theatre personality, before they separated. He later married writer and screenwriter Sandhya Gokhale.
Awards & Recognition:
- Multiple Filmfare Awards for Best Actor
- National Film Award nominations for his directorial work
- Padma Shri (2010) for his contributions to Indian cinema
Legacy:
Amol Palekar is regarded as one of the finest actors and filmmakers in Indian cinema, known for his realistic portrayals and intelligent storytelling. His influence on parallel cinema remains significant, and his films continue to be celebrated for their simplicity and charm.
