As 'Mr. India' turns 39, Vardhaan Puri talks about grandfather Amrish Puri's iconic villain Mogambo
Mumbai, May 25
As Shekhar Kapur' science fiction superhero-directed film "Mr. India" completed 39 years in Hindi cinema since its release, actor Vardhaan Puri has looked back on the legacy left behind by his legendary grandfather Amrish Puri, who played the iconic villainous role of "Mogambo."
Vardhaan said: "It feels incredibly special to see that even after nearly four decades, people still celebrate Mogambo with the same excitement and admiration. Very few characters manage to leave such a deep impact on audiences across generations and globally."
The actor said that his grandfather brought immense dedication and honesty to every role he played.
"Mogambo was not just a villain; he became an emotion for cinema lovers, especially children. Even today, his dialogues and expressions, continue to be remembered worldwide," said Vardhaan.
Talking about the film's lasting popularity, Vardhaan said, "The love that Mr. India continues to receive proves how timeless and cult classic, the film is. It has entertained families for years, and Mogambo became one of the strongest reasons behind that connection."
As a grandson, Vardhaan says it fills him with immense pride to witness how deeply respected and loved his performances still are.
"His contribution to Indian and world cinema will always remain legendary," he said.
Mr. India, released in 1987, also stars Anil Kapoor alongside late superstar Sridevi. The film followed the story of a humble violinist, Arun, who gets a cloaking device that provides invisibility. While renting out his house to pay his debts, he meets a journalist, Seema and falls in love with her. Meanwhile, criminal Mogambo, who wants the cloaking device, has plans to conquer India.
Talking about Amrish Puri, he acted in more than 450 films, and established himself as one of the greatest and iconic actors in Indian cinema.
He was suffering from myelodysplastic syndrome, a rare kind of blood cancer, and had undergone brain surgery for his condition in 2004. His condition required frequent removal of the blood accumulated in the cerebral region of the brain and after some time he slipped into a coma. He passed away in 2005 aged 72.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Vardhaan Puri is doing a great job keeping his grandfather's legacy alive. Mr. India is still one of the best sci-fi films we've made. Mogambo was scary but also so entertaining!
I watched Mr. India as a kid in the US and it's amazing how Bollywood villains could be so iconic. Amrish Puri brought such gravity to every role. His work in Indiana Jones and over 450 films is remarkable.
Such sweet words from Vardhaan. But let's not forget Amrish Puri sir was more than just Mogambo - his roles in Gadar, Nayak, and so many others were incredible too. A true gem of Indian cinema. 🎬
I grew up watching Mr. India with my family in Canada. That film brought us together. Sridevi's chemistry with Anil Kapoor, and Amrish Puri's terrifying Mogambo - pure magic. Happy 39 years!
Vardhaan's words are heartfelt. But one respectful criticism - I hope he also acknowledges his grandfather's nuanced roles in parallel cinema. Amrish Puri was not just a villain, he was a character actor par excellence. His range was unmatched, whether in comedy or drama.
Mogambo khush hua - that line is
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