Dev Anand Wiki Biography, Age, Height, Family, Wife, Personal Life, Career, Net Worth

Wiki Biography

Wiki Biography:

Original Name:

Dharamdev Pishorimal Anand

Nickname:

Chiru

Born:

26/09/1923

Birth Place:

Shakargarh tehsil of the Gurdaspur district in Punjab

Profession(s):

Actor
Film Producer
Director

Death:

03/12/2011

Death Place:

London, England

Physical Anatomy:

Body Type:

Slim

Figure Measurements (Approx):

Waist:30 Inch, Chest: 42 Inch, Biceps: 16 Inch

Height (Approx) in cm:

In centimeters – 173 cm, In feet inches- 5’ 8”, In meters – 1.73 m

Weight (Approx) in KG:

In kilograms – 70 kg, In pounds – 154 lbs

Eye Colour:

Black

Hair Colour:

Black

Dev Anand Childhood and Background:

Early Life in Punjab:

Family Ties: Dev Anand was the third of four sons born to Pishori Lal Anand, a well-to-do lawyer, and his wife. He had three brothers, Chetan, Vijay, and Manmohan, and a sister, Sheel Kanta (mother of filmmaker Shekhar Kapur).

Gurdaspur and Dalhousie: Born in Shakargarh tehsil of Gurdaspur district, Punjab, Dev spent his early years in this scenic region. He initially attended Sacred Heart School in Dalhousie, a picturesque hill station.

Lahore Education: As the family moved to Lahore, Dev continued his schooling at Government College, Dharamshala, before I graduated with a degree in English Literature from Government College, Lahore.
Influences and Experiences:

Nationalistic Fervor: Growing up during the Indian independence movement, Dev witnessed firsthand the fervor and struggle for freedom. His family hosted freedom fighters like Rajendra Prasad, shaping his sense of patriotism and social consciousness.

Love for Literature: His English literature degree instilled a deep love for language and storytelling, later reflected in his film choices and dialogues.
Stage Presence: Even as a shy child, Dev enjoyed dressing up and performing. He participated in school plays and honed his dramatic talents early on.

Legacy of a Colorful Childhood:

Dev Anand’s childhood laid the foundation for his remarkable career. His family background, education, and exposure to diverse experiences during a pivotal time in Indian history contributed to his charismatic personality, intellectual depth, and unwavering optimism, all of which became hallmarks of his iconic screen persona.

Private life:

Home Town:

Gharota, Gurdaspur, Punjab

Nationality:

Indian

Ethnicity:

Punjabi

Caste:

Khatri

Favorite Hobbies:

Reading, writing, collecting pens, jackets and pair of shoes, yoga

Likes/Dislikes:

Likes: Storytelling, Music and Dance

Dislikes: Injustice, Inequality, Negativity and Cynicism

Tattoo(s):

Not Known

Food choice:

Vegetarian

Now Address:

ZigZag Road at Pali Valley

Relationships and More:

Marital Status:

Married

Girlfriends/Affairs:

Suraiya (Actress)

Dev Anand Wiki Biography, Age, Height, Family, Wife, Personal Life, Career, Net Worth

Family & Relatives:

Spouse/Wife:

Kalpana Kartik (Actress)

Children’s:

Number of Children two

Son:

Suneil Anand

Daughter:

Devina Anand

Father:

Pishori Lal Anand (Advocate)

Mother:

Dev Anand lost his mother at a young age

Brother:

Vijay Anand (Indian filmmaker and film producer), Manmohan Anand (Advocate), Chetan Anand (Film producer and screenwriter)

Sister:

Sheela Kanta Kapur (Biographer, Shekhar Kapur’s mother), Bonnie Sareen, Usha Madhok

Top choices:

Preferred Actor(s):

Ashok Kumar, Charlie Chaplin

Preferred Actresses:

Snehprabhu Pradhan

Confection:

Not Known

Preferred Food:

soup

Fruit:

Not Known

Top Travel Choice:

Not Known

Favourite Collection:

Cars Collection:

Chevrolet Bel Air, 1928 Ford Model A, Jaguar E-Type, Mercedes Benz 300 SL Convertible, Willys Jeep CJ3B, Premier Padmini

Bike Collection:

Not Known

Financial Aspect:

Approx Salary:

Rs. 65 (1940-1950)

Properties/Assets:

Properties/Assets:

Iris Park: A bungalow in Juhu, Mumbai, where he lived for 40 years with his wife and children. The bungalow was the first one owned by an actor in that area and was surrounded by lavish houses of well-known industrialists. The bungalow was recently sold for an estimated amount of Rs 350-400 crore to a real estate company, which plans to demolish it and build a 22-storey tower.

Anand Niwas: A bungalow in Pali Hill, Mumbai, which was gifted to him by his friend Mr Larsen of Larsen and Toubro. The bungalow was also sold for a whopping sum of Rs 283 crore due to financial crises.

Navketan Films: A production company founded by Dev Anand in 1949, which produced many hit films such as Baazi, Guide, Jewel Thief, Hare Rama Hare Krishna, and Des Pardes. The company was one of the oldest and most successful film banners in Bollywood.

Vintage cars: Dev Anand was a fan of cars and owned a few vintage models such as Chevrolet Bel Air, 1928 Ford Model A, Jaguar E-Type, Mercedes Benz 300 SL Convertible, Willys Jeep CJ3B, and Premier Padmini. He used some of these cars in his films and was often seen driving them on the streets of Mumbai.

Net worth: Dev Anand’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million. He also earned a varying amount of salary per film depending on the time period, the budget and the box office performance of his movie.

Net Worth (Approximate):

INR : 400 Crore ($50 milion)

Rarely Discussed Facts about Dev Anand:

Does Dev Anand Smoke?: Yes
Does Dev Anand Drink alcohol?: No
1. Shayar at Heart:
- Beyond his acting prowess, Dev Anand was a gifted writer with a penchant for Urdu poetry. He penned several poems and even included them in his films, adding a touch of his own soul to the dialogues.
1. Classical Music Aficionado:
- Dev Anand’s love for music wasn’t just limited to film soundtracks. He was deeply passionate about classical music, particularly Hindustani vocal and instrumental forms. He even had a close relationship with renowned singer Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.
1. Sports Enthusiast:
- While his on-screen persona exuded urban cool, Dev Anand was a true sports enthusiast. He played cricket, badminton, and even participated in swimming competitions in his youth. He maintained his active lifestyle throughout his life.
1. Technological Pioneer:
- Contrary to his charmingly old-school persona, Dev Anand was an early adopter of technology. He was one of the first Indian filmmakers to use a computer for editing and even invested in a video cassette production unit, showcasing his forward-thinking approach.
1. The Rebellious streak:
- Despite his playful image, Dev Anand wasn’t afraid to stand up for what he believed in. He challenged the status quo in his films, tackling social issues and advocating for individual freedom. This rebellious spirit extended to his personal life as well, where he spoke his mind and challenged authority.
1. The Foodie:
- While not a gourmand, Dev Anand loved good food and enjoyed experimenting with different cuisines. He particularly loved Punjabi home cooking and had a soft spot for simple, healthy dishes. He valued the social aspect of meals and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
1. The Family Man:
- Despite his flamboyant screen image, Dev Anand was a devoted family man. He cherished his wife, Geeta Bali, and their son, Sunil, and prioritized spending time with them. He was a loving father and found solace in the quiet moments of family life.
1. The Philanthropist:
- Dev Anand was a generous man who actively supported various social causes. He established the Navketan Charitable Trust, which worked towards education and healthcare initiatives. He believed in giving back to society and used his platform to make a positive impact.
1. The Witty Humor:
- Dev Anand’s charm wasn’t just about his looks or his acting. He possessed a sharp wit and a knack for making people laugh. His quick repartee and witty dialogues were a trademark of his films and added to his endearing personality.
1. The Legacy:
- Dev Anand’s impact on Indian cinema and pop culture is undeniable. He redefined the image of the romantic hero, inspired generations of actors, and left behind a treasure trove of iconic films. His legacy lives on in his timeless songs, his playful dialogue, and his unwavering optimism, reminding us to live life to the fullest and embrace the joy of the journey.

Career:

Dev Anand Late 1940s and romance with Suraiya:

The Beginning:

1948: Their paths crossed on the sets of “Vidya,” where Dev Anand was a struggling newcomer and Suraiya, already a renowned singer-actress.
Shared Success: Their chemistry translated onto the screen, and they co-starred in several successful films like “Shair,” “Jeet,” and “Afsar,” creating an iconic on-screen couple.
Inter-faith Relationship: Their love story faced challenges due to their different religions – Dev Anand was Hindu, and Suraiya was Muslim. Suraiya’s conservative family disapproved, causing tension and pressure on their relationship.

Secret Love and Hidden Passion:

Love Letters: Despite the disapproval, their love remained strong. They exchanged secret love letters, confided in co-stars as messengers, and even planned to elope.
Diamond Ring and Sacrifice: Dev Anand reportedly proposed and even gave Suraiya a diamond ring. However, her family intervened, and she chose to stay with them, sacrificing her personal happiness for familial obligation.

The End of an Era:

1951: Their partnership ended with the film “Do Sitare,” marking the end of their on-screen and off-screen romance.
Unfulfilled Dreams: Both Dev Anand and Suraiya remained unmarried throughout their lives, carrying the weight of their unfulfilled love story.

Legacy and Speculation:

Unveiled Secrets: Years later, Dev Anand opened up about their relationship in his autobiography, sparking renewed interest and speculation about their love story.
Unanswered Questions: Did their love fade? Did they regret their choices? These questions remain unanswered, adding a layer of mystery to their poignant tale.

Beyond the Romance:

Impact on Cinema: Their love story resonated with audiences, inspiring countless romantic films and solidifying their place as a legendary on-screen couple.
Lessons in Love and Loss: Their story serves as a poignant reminder of the power of love, the challenges of societal pressures, and the enduring impact of unfulfilled dreams.

Dev Anand and Suraiya’s romance remains a captivating chapter in Indian cinema history. While their love story ended in bittersweet heartbreak, their undeniable chemistry and the sacrifices they made continue to touch hearts and inspire generations of actors and fans alike.

Dev Anand Break and the 1950s stardom:

The Big Break:

1948: Despite initial struggles, Dev Anand received his big break in the film “Ziddi,” offered by veteran actor Ashok Kumar. He played a complex hero, breaking away from typical Bollywood roles, and the film became a resounding success.
Rise of Bombay Noir: “Ziddi” set the tone for a string of successful noir films starring Dev Anand, like “Jaal” and “Taxi Driver.” He established himself as a brooding, anti-hero figure, resonating with the changing post-independence Indian audiences.

Reinventing the Romantic Hero:

1951: With “Baazi,” Dev Anand redefined the romantic hero image. He donned the iconic fedora and sunglasses, exuding effortless cool and charm. This film established him as a box office sensation and cemented his popularity with female audiences.
Romantic Triangles and Witty Dialogues: Dev Anand continued to charm audiences with his playful portrayal of romantic triangles in films like “Insaniyat” and “Munimji.” His sharp wit and witty dialogues became his trademark, endearing him to viewers.

Musical Collaborations and Enduring Hits:

Kishore-Lata Duets: Dev Anand formed a close relationship with playback singers Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar. Their soulful duets in films like “Tere Ghar Ke Samne” and “Hum Dono” continue to be cherished classics.
Memorable Song Sequences: His films featured visually stunning and engaging song sequences, often showcasing beautiful locations and vibrant dance routines. These musical moments enhanced the overall movie experience and further cemented his stardom.

Challenges and Evolution:

Box Office Fluctuations: Despite numerous successes, Dev Anand also faced some box office failures in the late 1950s, prompting him to experiment with different genres and roles.
Filmmaker Ventures: He began producing films like “Manzil” and “Jab Pyaar Kisi Se Hota Hai,” showcasing his growing artistic and creative control over his projects.

Dev Anand Romantic hero image in the 1960s:

Evolution of the Romantic Hero:

Moving beyond Bombay Noir: While the 1950s saw Dev Anand excel in noir roles, the 1960s marked a shift towards a lighter, more optimistic romantic hero. He retained his signature charm and wit, but injected them with a playful energy and a penchant for adventure.
Embracing Vulnerability: He wasn’t afraid to showcase vulnerability and emotional depth in his characters. Films like “Tere Ghar Ke Samne” and “Guide” explored complex relationships and challenged traditional gender roles, adding layers of depth to his romantic persona.

The “Urban Hero” and the Changing Landscape:

Modern Lifestyle and Fashion: Dev Anand embodied the growing urban youth culture of the 1960s. He sported trendy suits, glasses, and hairstyles, becoming a fashion icon and setting the standard for the modern Indian gentleman.
Travel and Exploration: His films often featured him globe-trotting, exploring exotic locations, and indulging in adventure. This resonated with young audiences eager to embrace new experiences and break free from traditional expectations.

Musical Magic and Enduring Songs:

Memorable Duets: His continued collaborations with Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar produced some of Bollywood’s most iconic romantic songs, further solidifying his image as the ultimate lover boy.
Catchy Tunes and Visual Appeal: Films like “Hum Dono” and “Tere Ghar Ke Samne” featured lively musical numbers with vibrant choreography and catchy tunes, adding to the romantic and joyful atmosphere.

The Rebellious Streak:

Social Commentary and Morality: While charming, his characters weren’t always perfect. He played flawed individuals who questioned societal norms and challenged authority, adding a touch of rebellion to his romantic image.
Embracing Grey Areas: He wasn’t afraid to portray characters with moral ambiguities, creating complex and relatable heroes who weren’t simply black and white.

Enduring Legacy:

Dev Anand’s romantic hero image of the 1960s remains a timeless classic. He redefined the genre with his unique blend of charm, wit, vulnerability, and rebellion, inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers.

Dev Anand Directorial debut and versatility in the 1970s:

Directorial Debut: Prem Pujari (1970):

Espionage Tale with a Twist: Anand’s first directorial outing was the spy thriller “Prem Pujari.” While it wasn’t a box office success, it displayed his ambition and artistic vision. He explored themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity, departing from the typical commercial Bollywood formula.
Introducing Zeenat Aman: The film launched the career of Zeenat Aman, who went on to become a Bollywood icon. Anand’s eye for talent and willingness to break conventional casting choices became a hallmark of his directing style.

Finding Success with Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971):

Riding the Hippie Wave: Anand capitalized on the rising counterculture movement with “Hare Rama Hare Krishna.” This film’s exploration of the hippie lifestyle and spiritual seeking, through the lens of Krishna consciousness, resonated with young audiences and became a critical and commercial success.
Introducing Disco and Experimentation: Anand incorporated vibrant disco music and modern visuals, pushing the boundaries of filmmaking and showcasing his willingness to adapt to changing trends.

Versatility Through the Decade:

Exploring Genres: Anand continued to experiment, helming diverse films like the romantic comedy “Chupke Chupke,” the social drama “Heera Panna,” and the action thriller “Warrant.” He proved his ability to navigate different genres with his signature style and thematic depth.
Discoveries and Collaborations: He introduced new names like Tina Munim and Parveen Babi, further cementing his reputation as a talent scout and collaborator.
Personal Touch: Despite directing, he continued to act in many of his films, maintaining his strong screen presence and injecting his signature charm into the narratives.

Challenges and Impact:

Box Office Fluctuations: While some of Anand’s directorial ventures were successful, others did not fare as well financially. This highlighted the difficulty of balancing artistic vision with commercial viability.
Enduring Legacy: Despite these challenges, his foray into directing showcased his artistic depth, versatility, and willingness to take risks. He challenged industry norms and paved the way for other actors to transition behind the camera.

Dev Anand Political activism during the Emergency in the late 1970s:

Opposition to Indira Gandhi’s Emergency:

1975-77: India witnessed the imposition of Emergency under then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, resulting in curbing of individual rights and censorship of dissent. Dev Anand emerged as a vocal critic of this authoritarian regime.
Public Criticism and Campaigning: He openly criticized the Emergency and its detrimental impact on freedom of expression. He actively campaigned against Indira Gandhi in the 1977 elections, urging people to vote for democratic forces.
Films as Platforms: Anand subtly incorporated critiques of the Emergency in his films like “Chalo Ishq Ladayen” and “Kasme Vaade,” further amplifying his message.

Formation of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP):

Political Party for Change: In 1977, alongside other prominent figures, Dev Anand co-founded the political party Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The party aimed to uphold democratic values and challenge the authoritarian policies of the time.
Short-lived Partnership: Anand eventually distanced himself from the BJP due to ideological differences. However, his initial involvement showcased his dedication to creating a strong platform for democratic ideals.

Legacy and Inspirations:

Defending Democracy: Dev Anand’s activism during the Emergency serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking out against injustice and fighting for fundamental rights.
Courageous Artist: He defied potential censorship and used his platform as a renowned actor to champion democracy, inspiring others to be agents of change.
Beyond Politics: His actions reflect the power of individual voices and the responsibility artists hold to address societal issues and advocate for a better future.

Noteworthy Points:

While Dev Anand’s activism was primarily focused on the Emergency, his political consciousness and involvement in social issues continued throughout his life.
There are varying perspectives on the effectiveness of his political stances and the impact of his involvement with the BJP. Exploring these diverse viewpoints offers a richer understanding of his complex contribution to Indian politics.

Dev Anand Later career and an evergreen hero:

Challenges and Adaptations:

Ageing and Changing Audience: As Dev Anand aged, he faced the challenges of adapting to an evolving film landscape and shifting audience preferences. He embraced these challenges with grace and a willingness to experiment.
Shifting Genres: While he continued to play romantic leads in films like “Man Pasand” and “Lootmaar,” he also explored other genres like thrillers (“Swami Dada”) and social dramas (“Ishq Ishq Ishq”).
Reinventing the Hero: He redefined the romantic hero for a mature audience, playing characters with relatable struggles and vulnerabilities, like a middle-aged widower in “Prem Deewani.”

Collaborations and Enduring Appeal:

New Talent: Dev Anand continued to discover and nurture new talent, introducing actresses like Zeenat Aman and Tina Munim who became Bollywood icons.
Evergreen Songs: His films in the later years featured memorable songs by veteran composers like RD Burman and Ravindra Jain, ensuring his music remained timeless and relevant.
Maintaining Relevance: He stayed connected with the younger generation by incorporating contemporary music and dance styles into his films, like the disco sequences in “Swami Dada.”

Beyond Acting:

Production and Direction: He continued to produce and direct films, showcasing his creative vision and commitment to storytelling.
Charitable Work: Dev Anand was actively involved in philanthropy, establishing the Navketan Charitable Trust to support education and healthcare initiatives.

Legacy of an Evergreen Hero:

Beyond box office success: While some of his later films weren’t commercial blockbusters, Dev Anand’s later career is a testament to his passion for cinema and his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Inspirational Figure: He remained an inspiration for aspiring actors and filmmakers, showcasing the importance of reinvention, adaptability, and staying true to one’s artistic vision.
Timeless Icon: Dev Anand’s legacy transcends generations. He remains an evergreen hero, remembered for his charming persona, witty dialogues, memorable songs, and unwavering dedication to his craft.

Controversies:

Personal Disputes:

Suraiya and Raj Kapoor: In his autobiography, Dev Anand claimed a past relationship with actress Suraiya and alleged an affair between her and Raj Kapoor. Suraiya vehemently denied these claims, sparking a public controversy and straining ties between Dev Anand and some of his colleagues.
Zeenat Aman: Similar to the Suraiya situation, Dev Anand wrote about a potential romantic link with Zeenat Aman in his autobiography. Aman refuted these claims, highlighting potential inconsistencies in his writing and adding another layer of controversy.

Political Activism:

Emergency Criticism: During the Emergency in India (1975-77), Dev Anand took a vocal stance against Indira Gandhi’s government. He actively campaigned against her in the 1977 elections and criticized her authoritarian policies, drawing opposition from some supporters and facing potential censorship of his films.

Film-Related Issues:

“Guide” Censorship: Dev Anand’s iconic film “Guide” faced criticism for its bold representation of female sexuality and unconventional portrayal of a married woman. It encountered censorship issues in several states, sparking debates about artistic freedom and social morality.
“Hare Rama Hare Krishna” Reception: Though critically acclaimed, Dev Anand’s film “Hare Rama Hare Krishna” exploring Krishna consciousness, sparked some controversy for its depiction of hippies and drug use. Some found it insensitive or unrealistic, creating a split in audience reception.

Social Network:

Instagram:

Dharamdev Pishorimal Anand Instagram

X (Formarly lnown as Twitter):

Dharamdev Pishorimal Anand X (Formarly lnown as Twitter)

Wikipedia:

Wikipedia

IMDB:

IMDB

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