The legendary Kanhaiyalal was not just any other actor. He was a unique performer who used to sink so deeply into a character that it was impossible to separate the two. Be it Sukhi Lala of “Mother India,” as the representative of evil capatilists and their tricks or the loveable Munshi of “Ganga Jamuna,” he was in his own league; no one was like him and no one will ever be.
Early Life and Career
Kanhaiyalal Chaturvedi, known simply as Kanhaiyalal, was a distinguished actor in the Indian film industry, renowned for his compelling performances in over 122 films. Born in 1910 in the spiritual city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Kanhaiyalal’s journey to stardom was not a straightforward one. His father, Pandit Bhairodutt Choube, was an owner of the Sanatan Dharm Natak Samaj in Varanasi, which used to organise Ram Leela and other religious activities and functions. This early exposure laid the foundation for Kanhaiyalal’s interest in the performing arts.
Despite initial resistance from his father, Kanhaiyalal’s passion for the stage could not be quelled. At the young age of 16, he began writing and taking on small roles within the troupe. His perseverance paid off, and after his father’s passing, he and his brother attempted to run the drama company. However, they eventually had to close it down, leading Kanhaiyalal to seek opportunities in Bombay’s burgeoning film industry.
Breakthrough
Kanhaiyalal started his career in films with Zia Sarhadi’s “Bhole Bhale (1936).” he also wrote the a few songs in the film. He then acted in V.C. Desai and Ramchandra Thakur’s “Gramophone Singer (1938).” Kanhaiyalal’s career took a significant turn when he was met Mehboob Khan. First Khan cast him in “Ek Hi Raasta (1939)” in an negative role. Next year Mehoob Khan cast him in the role of the evil moneylender Sukkhi Lala in hiss 1940 film “Aurat.”
This role become iconic when, 17 years later, he reprised the same role in the legendary film “Mother India.” Mother India became legendary for its portrayal of rural Indian life and the struggles of its people.
Some other notable films of Kanhaiyalal in the 1940s include “Radhika (1941),” Bahen (1941),” “Aasra (1941),” “Khilona (1942),” Nirdosh (1942),” “Dulhan (1943),” “Dost (1944),” “Lal Haveli (1944),” “Pagli Duniya (1944),” “Gaali (1944),” “Kiran (1944),” “Ramayani (1945),” “Aarti (1945),” “Shri Krishn Arjun Yuddha (1945),” “Panihari (1946),” “Bhookh (1946),” “Jeet (1948),” “Afsar (1950),” “Nishana (1950),” “Hum Log (1950),” and many more.
The Legend
Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Kanhaiyalal continued to act in films, often playing the supporting characters of Sahukar, Munshi, or Village elder in films like Malhar (1951), Daag (1952), Mr. Sampat (1952), Naukari (1955), Devdas (1955), Naata (1955), Bandi (1957), Chhote Babu (1957), Panchayat (1958), Parakh (1960), Gharana (1960), Son of India (1962), Meri Surat Teri Ankhen (1963), Grahasti (1963), Zindagi (1964), Himalay Ki God mein (1965), Oonche Log (1965), Gaban (1966), Ram Aur Shyam (1967), Upkar (1967), Bandhan (1969), Doli (1969), Dharti Kahe Pukarke (1969), Jeevan Mrityu (1970), Sharafat (1970) and many more.
Kanhaiyalal’s versatility as an actor was evident in his wide range of roles, from the villainous moneylender in “Mother India” and “Upkaar” to more diverse characters in films like “Bhookh,” “Apna Desh,” and “Dushman.” His ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters made him a favourite among audiences and critics alike. One of his most famous roles came in Dilip Kumar‘s classic “Ganga Jamuna,” where he played the practical and world-wise munshi with a heart of gold. His sarcastic dialogue is still remembered with a laugh and, of course, admiration.
Although he cut down on his work in the late 70s and 80s, some of his notable films include Dushman (1971), Banphool (1971), Apna Desh (1972), Aan Baan (1972), Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978), Daku Aur Jawan (1978), Karmayogi (1978), Janta Hawaldar (1979), Hum Paanch (1980), Yeh Kaisa Nashaa Hai (1981), Haathkadi (1982), and Jeeo Aur Jeene Do (1982), among others. His final film role was in “Kasam Durga Ki” in 1984.
Personal Life
Kanhaiyalal was married to Jambansi Chaturvedi; he was a family man with three sons and four daughters, one of whom, Hemaa Singh, followed in his creative footsteps as a filmmaker. Kanhaiyalal’s legacy in the film industry is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
Kanhaiyalal passed away on August 14, 1982, but his work continues to inspire actors and filmmakers. His contribution to Indian cinema is indelible, and his performances remain etched in the hearts of movie enthusiasts across generations.
Kanhaiyalal on IMDB
