The funnyman Deven Verma, an illustrious figure in the Indian film industry, was known for his impeccable comic timing and the ability to bring a smile to the faces of millions. Some of his iconic films include “Chori Mera Kaam,” “Chor Ke Ghar Chor,” “Angoor,” “Rang Birangi,” “Andaz Apna Apna,” and many more.
Early Life
Deven Verma, a stalwart of Indian cinema known for his comic roles, had a personal life that was as rich and fulfilling as his professional career. Born on October 23, 1937, in Kutch, Gujarat, Verma was raised in Pune, Maharashtra, where he pursued his education and developed a keen interest in the arts. He studied at Nowrosjee Wadia College, where he earned an honours degree in politics and sociology.
Verma’s family hailed from a Rajasthani background, with his father, Baldev Singh Verma, engaged in the silver business. His mother, Sarala Devi, who was a homemaker, belongs to Kutch. He grew up with four sisters, Nirupama, Tushar, Amita, and Parul, two of whom were twins.
Acting Journey and Breakthrough
His journey in the film industry began with Yash Chopra’s social drama “Dharmputra” in 1961, where he took on a serious role in a story set against the backdrop of India’s partition. He followed it with many memorable films like Gumrah (1963), Aaj Aur Kal (1963), Suhagan (19634), Oonche Log (1965), Rishte Naate (1965), Anupama (1966), Mohabbat Zindagi Hai (1966), Devar (1966), Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi (1966), Milan (1967), Aa Jaa Sanam (1968), Sunghursh (1968), Khamoshi (1970), Mere Apne (1971), Buddha Mil Gaya (1971), Dhund (1971), Kora Kagaz (1974), 36 Ghante (1974), and many more. Although Verma had small parts in these films, he slowly gained recognition and made a mark as a seasoned actor who had a flare for comedy.
Verma’s breakthrough came with Brij Sadanah’s “Chori Mera Kaam” in 1975, which won him critical acclaim and established him as a top comic actor. The film also earned him his first Filmfare Best Comedian Award. Over the years, he worked with renowned directors like Basu Chatterji, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Yash Chopra, and Gulzar. His performances were not just confined to Hindi cinema; he also left his mark in Marathi and Bhojpuri films.
Some of his other notable films in this period include Deewaar (1975), Kabhie Kabhie (1976), Arjun Pandit (1976), Mukti (1977), Aadmi Sadak Ka (1977), Besharam (1978), Naukri (1978), Priyatama (1978), Dillagi (1978), Lok Parlok (1979), Ghar Ki Laaj (1979), Golmaal (1979), Sau Din Saas Ke (1980), and many more
Deven Verma The Filmnaker
Verma’s foray into production began with the film Yakeen (1969), starring Dharmendra and Sharmila Tagore. This marked the beginning of a series of productions that would come to define his versatility and vision as a filmmaker.
In 1971, Verma directed “Nadaan,” starring Asha Parekh and Navin Nischal. Following this, he directed Bada Kabutar (1973), a film that tells the story of Bhola, an honest man who comes from a family of criminals. His mother and mama want him to be a famous criminal instead of a street vendor.
Perhaps one of his most notable works as a director is Besharam (1978), a film that starred Amitabh Bachchan and Sharmila Tagore. He also produced Chatpati (1983) and directed Dana Paani (1989).
Deven Verma The Actor
On the acting front, Verma won another Filmfare Best Comedian Award for “Chor Ke Ghar Chor (1976),” playing the character Parvinbhai. Verma’s performance in this film about a stolen idol and the ensuing chaos won him his second Filmfare award. One of his most memorable performances came in Basu Chatterjee’s Khatta Meetha (1978),” as Dara, in a film that is especially memorable for its handling of marriage among an elderly couple.
In Gulzar’s cult classic “Angoor (1982),” an adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors,” saw him playing a dual role, delivering a performance that won him the Filmfare Best Comedian award. His portrayal of the confused and bewildered Bahadur, caught in a web of mistaken identities, showcased his talent for physical comedy and expressive humour.
In “Rang Birangi (1983),” a Hrishikesh Mukherjee film, Verma played Ravi, the mastermind behind an elaborate scheme to revive a failing marriage. His character’s antics, along with an ensemble cast, created a comedy that was both intelligent and hilarious.
Some of his other notable films include Nazrana Pyar Ka (1980), Judaai (1980), Silsila (1981), Pyaasa Sawan (1981), Bemisal (1982), Aaj Kaa M.L.A. Ram Avtar (1984), Jaag Utha Insan (1984), Saaheb (1985), Pighalta Aasman (1985), Ulta Seedha (1985), Bhavani Junction (1985), Sadak Chhap (1987), Mardon Wali Baat (1988), Prem Pratigyaa (1989), Dil (1990), and many more.
Later Career
In this cult comedy “Andaz Apna Apna (1994),” Verma had a brief but unforgettable role as Amar’s father. The hilarious exchange between Amar, played by Aamir Khan, and his father remains one of the film’s many highlights.
Some of his later roles include Deewana (1992), Chamatkar (1992), King Uncle (1993), Bedardi (1993), Yeh Dillagi (1994), Professor Ki Padosan (1994), Ram Jaane (1995), Akele Hum Akele Tum (1995), Tu Chor Main Sipahi (1995), Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996), Dil To Pagal Hai (1997), Ishq (1997), Kya Kehna (2000), and many more. His last film was Sudhir Mishra’s “Calcutta Mail” in 2003. He also acted in TV shows like Mama Ji (1992) and Zabaan Sambhalke (1993).
Personal life
Verma was very fond of Ashok Kumar and often visited Kumar’s home for dinner, where he first met Rupa, the daughter of the legend. Deven Verma and Rupa Ganguly’s relationship blossomed over time, leading to a loving marriage. It took two years for their marriage to materialise, as Ashok Kumar initially hesitated, citing Rupa’s youth. However, the couple’s persistence paid off, and their union became a celebrated one in film circles.
Rupa was not only his partner but also a significant influence in his life. Their marriage was a blend of mutual respect and affection, which was evident to those who knew them closely.
Verma’s passing on December 2, 2014, marked the end of an era, but his memories continue to live on through his family, friends, and the countless fans who admired him not just as an actor but as a person.
Deven Verma on IMDB
