The famous Hindi actor Pran Krishan Sikand  popularly know as Pran (93) of yester years passed away on Friday in a private hospital in Mumbai.

Pran was born on 12th February 1920 in Delhi.  He first wanted to become a photographer but became an actor after he met a producer who gave him a chance to act in a Punjabi movie.  After that Pran worked in a number of films without a need to look back.  He acted in as many as 400 films.  

Pran who became popular with negative roles could do well in the character roles also that brought him recognition, good name and fame.  His roles in “Madhumati”, “Jis Desh Mein Ganga Bahati Hai”, “Ram Aur Shyam” and “Devdas” are memorable for his negative roles and “Upkar”, “Zanjeer”, “Parichay”, “Purab Aur Paschim”, “Don” etc. in character and soft roles among many others and soon became highly paid actor in the Hindi film industry.

He received Dada Phalke award in April this year which was presented by the Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tiwari at his residence due to his poor health.  Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Parliament Speaker Meera Kumar paid condolences to the family members of Pran.  Many film personalities and near and dear are thronging his place to have a last look and pay respects.  Many senior and other actors expressed shock and said that the industry lost a gem.

Cremation of Pran will take place today at Shivaji Park in Dadar.

(AW-SriJa)