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Sunil Dutt, a prominent figure in Bollywood, is remembered not just for his contribution to Indian cinema but also for his role in politics and his philanthropic efforts. Born on June 6, 1929, in Jhelum, British India (now in Pakistan), he made his mark in the film industry with his incredible acting skills, charming personality, and versatility in roles.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sunil Dutt (born as Balraj Dutt) |
| Date of Birth | June 6, 1929 |
| Place of Birth | Jhelum, British India (now Pakistan) |
| Date of Death | May 25, 2005 |
| Place of Death | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Producer, Politician |
| Debut Film | Railway Platform (1955) |
| Spouse | Nargis (m. 1958–1981; her death) |
| Children | Sanjay Dutt, Priya Dutt, Namrata Dutt |
| Parents | Diwan Raghunath Dutt, Kulwantidevi Dutt |
Early Life and Struggles
Sunil Dutt’s early life was marked by hardships. After the partition of India in 1947, he moved to India and started his career as a radio jockey for Radio Ceylon. His voice and charisma caught the attention of Bollywood, and he soon made his acting debut with “Railway Platform” in 1955.
Rise to Stardom
With his debut, Sunil Dutt had set the stage for a successful career in Bollywood. He gained widespread acclaim for his role in “Mother India” (1957), where he met his future wife, Nargis. The couple’s on-screen and off-screen chemistry was palpable, and they got married in 1958. Sunil Dutt’s filmography includes numerous hits like “Sujata”, “Mujhe Jeene Do”, “Padosan”, and “Mera Saaya”.
Sunil Dutt’s Personal Life and Family
Sunil Dutt’s personal life was as eventful as his career. He married Nargis, a leading actress of her time, in 1958. The couple had three children: Sanjay Dutt, Priya Dutt, and Namrata Dutt. Sunil Dutt stood by his son, Sanjay, during his tumultuous times and is known for his unwavering support.
Philanthropy and Politics
Apart from his career in films, Sunil Dutt was also actively involved in social work and politics. He was elected as a Member of Parliament five times and worked tirelessly for the welfare of his constituents. He founded the Nargis Dutt Foundation in memory of his late wife, to help cancer patients and promote cancer awareness.
Sunil Dutt’s Net Worth and Legacy
At the time of his death in 2005, Sunil Dutt’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million, amassed through his successful career in films, politics, and other ventures. His legacy lives on through his films, his contributions to society, and his family, who continue to uphold his values and principles.
FAQs
1. When and where was Sunil Dutt born?
Sunil Dutt was born on June 6, 1929, in Jhelum, British India.
2. What was Sunil Dutt’s original name?
Sunil Dutt was born as Balraj Dutt.
3. When did Sunil Dutt pass away?
Sunil Dutt passed away on May 25, 2005, in Mumbai, India.
4. How many children did Sunil Dutt have?
Sunil Dutt had three children: Sanjay Dutt, Priya Dutt, and Namrata Dutt.
5. Which was Sunil Dutt’s debut film?
Sunil Dutt made his acting debut in “Railway Platform” (1955).
6. Was Sunil Dutt involved in politics?
Yes, Sunil Dutt served as a Member of Parliament five times.
7. What is Sunil Dutt’s legacy in Bollywood?
Sunil Dutt is remembered as a versatile actor, a loving father, and a philanthropist.
8. Who was Sunil Dutt married to?
Sunil Dutt was married to the actress Nargis.
9. What is Sunil Dutt’s net worth?
Sunil Dutt’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million at the time of his death.
10. Did Sunil Dutt work in philanthropy?
Yes, Sunil Dutt was actively involved in philanthropy and founded the Nargis Dutt Foundation.
11. Did Sunil Dutt face personal struggles?
Yes, Sunil Dutt faced numerous personal struggles, especially with regard to his son Sanjay Dutt’s legal issues.
12. What is the Nargis Dutt Foundation?
The Nargis Dutt Foundation is a charitable organization founded by Sunil Dutt in memory of his wife, to help cancer patients and promote cancer awareness.
13. How many times was Sunil Dutt elected as a Member of Parliament?
Sunil Dutt was elected as a Member of Parliament five times.
14. What impact did Sunil Dutt have on Indian cinema?
Sunil Dutt had a significant impact on Indian cinema, with a career spanning over three decades and a variety of memorable roles.
15. What are some of Sunil Dutt’s most memorable films?
Some of Sunil Dutt’s most memorable films include “Mother India”, “Mujhe Jeene Do”, “Padosan”, and “Mera Saaya”.
