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Prem Chopra

Abhishek with actors Prem Chopra and Premnath - 1974
Abhishek with actors Prem Chopra and Premnath - 1974 Image: Wikimedia Commons. Abhishek / CC0

Overview

Prem Chopra (born 23 September 1935) is an Indian actor known for his work in Hindi cinema. With a career spanning more than six decades and over 380 films, he is widely recognised for portraying villainous characters in Hindi films from the 1960s through the 1990s, while also playing positive, character and comic roles. His on-screen line "Prem naam hai mera, Prem Chopra" from Bobby (1973) became one of the most memorable dialogues in Hindi film history.

Key facts

Born 23 September 1935, Lahore, Punjab Province, British India (now in Pakistan)
Raised in Shimla (post-Partition)
Occupation Film actor
Years active Over six decades
Films Over 380
Primary industry Hindi cinema (also Punjabi cinema)
Notable award Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (2023)
Autobiography Prem Naam Hai Mera, Prem Chopra (2014), written by his daughter Rakita Nanda

Background

Chopra was born in Lahore in undivided India. Following the Partition of India in 1947, his family relocated, and he was raised in Shimla. Before entering full-time acting, he worked in journalism. He appeared in Punjabi films before transitioning to Hindi cinema.

Career

Breakthrough and rise

Chopra's breakthrough came with Shaheed (1965), which established his presence in Hindi cinema. He followed this with acclaimed performances in Upkar (1967), Bobby (1973), Do Anjaane (1976) and Kranti (1981).

Collaborations

Over the course of his career, Chopra worked with many leading actors of Hindi cinema. He collaborated extensively with Rajesh Khanna, appearing alongside him in more than 20 films.

Later career

As Hindi cinema evolved, Chopra moved from predominantly villainous roles to character and comic parts, continuing to appear in films and television well into the 21st century.

Significance

Chopra is regarded as one of the defining screen antagonists of his era in Hindi cinema. The popularity of his Bobby introduction line contributed to his enduring association with the villain archetype, even as he diversified into other roles. The Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award conferred on him in 2023 recognised his sustained contribution to Indian cinema.

Other activities

Chopra's autobiography, Prem Naam Hai Mera, Prem Chopra, was published in 2014 and was written by his daughter Rakita Nanda. He has also been active in philanthropic work and in the promotion of cultural activities.

References