Happy birthday, Prem Chopra! Known for playing some of Bollywood’s most notorious villains, the veteran actor has always received love from behind the scenes. When discussing iconic villains from the golden age of cinema, Prem Chopra’s name undoubtedly comes up at the top. Celebrating another year, he once remarked in an interview that “It’s wrong to reveal your age because all the beautiful girls run away.”
Although she played some of the most hated characters in films, those who know her describe her as one of the kindest people they have ever met. Unlike her on-screen persona, Chopra is a charming person in real life. In an old conversation with The Indian Express on her 82nd birthday, Chopra was asked about her birthday plans and she joked, “That’s wrong. You guys tell us our age and all the beautiful girls run away. Life begins at 80”.
With a career spanning over six decades, Chopra has etched his name as one of the most unforgettable villains in Indian cinema. His on-screen image as a cunning, ruthless villain was often in stark contrast to his real-life charm and humility, making him a beloved figure within the industry and among fans.
Chopra’s career began with films such as Upkaar (1967) and Do Raaste (1969), but it was his menacing roles in classics such as Kati Patang (1970), Bobby (1973) and Kala Sona (1975) that established him as the quintessential villain. His catchphrase “Prem naam hai mera, Prem Chopra” in Bobby is one of the most memorable dialogues in Bollywood history.
Chopra was last seen in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s film Animal. In an interview with India Today, Chopra shared her thoughts on Ranbir Kapoor’s performance in Animal and explained why he would be a perfect choice to play her in the biopic. Referring to Kapoor, Chopra praised his acting abilities and said that his character in Animal really impressed her. According to Chopra, Ranbir has already established himself as a superstar, making him an apt choice to play Prem Chopra in a biographical film.
Prem Chopra, who has turned 88, is still remembered as a legend whose roles have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Also read: Throwback: When Varun Dhawan confirmed Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor’s relationship even before marriage