Nazir Ahmed Khan facts for kids

Nazir Ahmad Khan (Urdu: نذِیر) (1904 – 26 August 1983) was a very important person in the history of the film industry. Many people call him the Founding Father of the Pakistan Film Industry. He was a talented actor, director, and producer who made many movies.

Life and Career of Nazir Ahmad Khan

Starting in Films

Nazir Ahmad Khan was born in Lahore in 1904. He was a very artistic young man. In 1929, he left Lahore and went to Calcutta. He wanted to make movies and become a part of the film world. He was determined to make his mark in the film industry.

Nazir was known as 'Bao Jee' in the film industries of both India and Pakistan. He started his acting career in silent films. His first role was in 'Sarfarosh' (also called 'Brave Heart') in 1929. He also appeared in 'Heer' and 'Mysterious Bandit'.

Becoming a Star

Nazir's acting skills were quickly noticed. He moved to Bombay and got many important roles. He starred in films like 'Rajputana Ka Sher' and 'Badmaash Ka Baita'. In 1934, he returned to Calcutta to work with his friend A.R. Kardar. He acted in films such as 'Chandra Gupta' and 'Sultana'.

One of his most famous roles was as Chanakiya in 'Chandra Gupta'. To play the clever prime minister, Nazir even shaved his head completely! In 1939, he moved back to Bombay. He starred in 'Baghbaan', which was a huge success. This film made him one of the most respected actors of his time.

A Pioneer in Filmmaking

Nazir Ahmad Khan was one of the first people to start the film industry in India. He acted alongside 35 different actresses. Many of these actresses were the biggest stars of their time.

He also started his own film company called Hind Pictures. He built a studio in Bombay under the same name. Even with his own company, he still acted in films for other producers. Over 55 years, Nazir was involved in almost 200 films. He contributed a lot to the growth of cinema in the region.

Moving to Pakistan

When India was divided in 1947, there were riots. Nazir's studio and offices in Bombay were burned down. He had bravely shown his support for the Muslim League there. He watched his studio burn, then left Bombay forever.

Nazir moved to Lahore, Pakistan, in 1947. He had to start all over again. He became one of the key figures in starting the Pakistan film industry. His first film in Pakistan was 'Saachai'. After that, he produced and directed 'Pheray'. This film was the first "Silver Jubilee" film in Pakistani cinema. This means it was very popular and ran in cinemas for 25 weeks.

Later, Nazir felt that the quality of films in Pakistan was going down. He didn't like that filmmakers were focusing only on glamour and quick money. So, he decided to step away from the industry.

Personal Life

Nazir Ahmad Khan was born in 1904 in Lahore. He had several wives during his life. His first wife was Sikandara Begum. She was the sister of K. Asif, who directed the famous film 'Mughal-e-Azam'.

Later, he married the film actress Swaran Lata. Nazir had many children. One of his daughters married Nasir Khan, who was the brother of the famous actor Dilip Kumar.

Awards and Recognition

• Nigar Award 'Special Nigar Award for 30 years of excellence' in the Pakistani film industry in 1982. This award recognized his long and successful career.

Death

Nazir Ahmad Khan passed away on 26 August 1983.

Legacy

Even today, Nazir Ahmad Khan's family continues his work. His son, Akhtar Nazir Khan (also known as Cooki), and his grandson, Asif Nazir Khan, are working hard. They have a company called Nazir Asif Arts. Their goal is to bring back the high quality and creativity that once made Pakistani films famous. They want to honor the great films and songs that were a source of pride in the past.

Filmography

See also

• List of Lollywood actors
• List of Pakistani film directors