Dinesh Thakur, an eminent figure in Indian theatre, cinema, and TV, was an iconic actor and theatre director. He was known for his films like Anubhav, Rajnigandha, Parinay, Madhu Malti, Griha Pravesh, and many more.
Early Life
Dinesh Thakur was born in 1947 in Jaipur, Rajasthan. He was a graduate of Kirori Mal College, Delhi University. Thakur worked extensively in the dramatic society of Kirori Mal College – The Players. Legendary professor Frank Thakurdas greatly encouraged the young Dinesh to pursue acting. After his post-graduation, he joined Delhi’s Hindustani Theatre.
Thakur founded ANK Productions, a Mumbai-based theatre company, in 1976. The group became a prominent name in Hindi theatre, staging numerous plays over the years. The company’s inception coincided with a period when Hindi theatre was not as prevalent in Mumbai. In the city, Marathi theatre had deep roots, and English plays were the norm among urban audiences. In that era ANK plays a big role in popularizing the Hindi theatre.
Dinesh Thakur On Stage
Under Thakur’s leadership, ANK Productions broke new ground by staging plays by renowned playwrights such as Vijay Tendulkar, Girish Karnad, Mohan Rakesh, Shankar Shesh, and Badal Sircar. These plays were not only performed in Mumbai but also reached an international audience, showcasing the richness of Indian theatre on a global stage.
One of Thakur’s most notable theatre productions was “Jis Lahore Nahi Dekhya,” written by Asghar Wajahat, which remains popular to this day. One of his other significant plays, “Hai Mera Dil,” an adaptation of the Broadway play by Norman Barasch and Carroll Moore, was a remarkable success and set a record with over 1,200 shows.
Thakur also directed “Tughlaq,” a play written by Girish Karnad, “Baki Itihas,” and “Pagla Ghoda” by Badal Sircar, “Suno Janmejaya” by Shri Ranga, and “Jaat Hi Poochho Sadhu Ki” by Vijay Tendulkar. These plays are known for their critical examination of social issues and have been instrumental in shaping contemporary Hindi theatre. Some of his other plays include “Khamosh! Adalat Jaari Hai,” and “Kamala,” by Vijay Tendulkar; “Adhe Adhure” by Mohan Rakesh; “Rakt-Beej” by Shankar Shesh; “Mahabhoj” by Manu Bhandari; and “Hangamakhez” by Agha Hashar Kashmiri.
Dinesh Thakur On Screen
Thakur made his film debut in 1971 with “Mere Apne,” written and directed by Gulzar. He went on to work in notable films such as Basu Bhattacharya‘s “Anubhav (1971)” and “Griha Pravesh (1979).” He gets widspread acclaim for his performance in Basu Chaterjee‘s “Rajnigandha” (1974).
Some of his other notable films include: Jalte Badan (1973), Parinay (1974), Faslah (1974), Kalicharan (1976), Madhu Malti (1978), Meera (1979), Khwab (1980), The Burning Train (1980), Sitara (1980), Aamne Samne (1982), Manju (1983), Aaj Ki Awaz (1984), Sanjhi (1985), Ulta Seedha (1985), Surkhiyaan (1985), Aakhri Baazi (1989), Panchvati (1990), Aastha (1997), Aakhri Sanghursh (1997), Fiza (2000), and many more.
Ghar
Ghar, directed by Manik Chatterjee with Gulzar and released in 1978, is a Hindi drama film. Thakur wrote the story, screenplay, and dialogue. The film stars Vinod Mehra as Vikas Chandra and Rekha as Aarti, a newly married couple. The narrative centers on Aarti’s sexual assault and the couple’s struggle to cope with the aftermath. Thakur’s writing explores themes of resilience, societal judgment, and emotional recovery. The film’s sensitive handling of a serious issue earned critical acclaim.
Thakur won the 1979 Filmfare Best Story Award for his work. The music, composed by R.D. Burman with lyrics by Gulzar, includes iconic songs like “Tere Bina Jiya Jaye Na” and “Aaj Kal Paon Zameen Par.” Ghar marked a turning point for Rekha, showcasing her acting depth. Thakur also appeared in a supporting role as Dr. Prashant. The film’s production faced challenges, with Gulzar stepping in to complete it after Chatterjee’s accident. Ghar remains a landmark in Hindi cinema for its bold narrative and Thakur’s nuanced storytelling.
Astha
Dinesh Thakur wrote the story and screenplay of Aastha: In the Prison of Spring, directed by Basu Bhattacharya. T The film stars Rekha alongside Om Puri and Navin Nischol. It’s a story of middle-class housewife Mansi, who indulges in giving sexual favors for monatery benfits. It examines themes of economic desperation, personal choice, and societal hypocrisy. Thakur’s narrative blends art and commercial cinema, using a musical format to address serious issues. The film achieved critical and commercial success, a rarity for Bhattacharya’s later works.
Rekha’s controversial role earned her a 1997 Star Screen Award nomination for Best Actress. Thakur’s writing delves into complex human emotions, maintaining a balance between provocative themes and accessibility. The film’s success prompted Bhattacharya to consider an English remake, though his death in 1997 halted the project. Aastha stands out for bridging art-house and mainstream audiences, showcasing Thakur’s ability to craft layered stories.
Other Work
Thakur also wrote the story, screenplay, and dialogue of Tere Pyar Mein (1977) starring Sarika, Vijayendra Ghatge, and Mithun Chakraborty.
Thakur also acted in TV series like La Nouvelle Malle des Indes (1981), Shanti (1994), Mitti Ke Rang (1998), and Nyaay (2000-2001), among others. He also acted in famous serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (2000).
Personal Life
Dinesh Thakur married Preeta Mathur, an actress associated with ANK Productions. The couple worked together on several theatre projects. Preeta continuing to lead ANK after Thakur’s death to preserve his legacy. Sadly, Dinesh Thakur passed away on September 20, 2012, due to kidney failure.
Dinesh Thakur on IMDB
