Mumbai, May 28: Mehboob Khan, the legendary filmmaker behind iconic Indian cinema like “Mother India,” led a life that resembles a cinematic tale. As a child, his passion for films was so intense that he would catch trains daily to watch movies in Mumbai and nearby towns. When his family discovered his escapades, his father reprimanded him and brought him back home.
Despite this setback, his love for cinema never waned. This boy would eventually grow into a prominent director known for creating historical films like “Mother India.”
Born on September 9, 1907, in Sarar village near Vadodara, Gujarat, Mehboob Khan came from a humble background. His family faced financial struggles, but his fascination with films and acting was evident from a young age. He would secretly board trains to watch movies in nearby towns, nurturing a dream of becoming an actor.
His friendship with a railway guard proved pivotal; the guard encouraged him to pursue his dreams in Mumbai. At just 16, Mehboob left home for the city of dreams. However, his father soon found out, traveled to Mumbai, and brought him back home. The family even arranged his marriage to divert his attention from films, but Mehboob’s dream persisted.
Eventually, he returned to Mumbai, facing numerous challenges. He spent hours outside Jyoti Studio near VT Station, hoping for acting opportunities, often sleeping on railway platforms. His persistence paid off when he met filmmaker Ardeshir Irani, who offered him small roles in films, marking the beginning of his cinematic journey.
Initially, Mehboob worked as a junior artist and supporting actor, but he soon realized his true passion lay in directing and storytelling. He began writing his own scripts and approached various producers. After initial rejections, his first directed film, “Al Hilal,” was released in 1935, earning him recognition.
Following this success, he directed several hit films, including “Deccan Queen,” “Aurat,” “Roti,” “Anmol Ghadi,” “Andaaz,” “Aan,” and “Amar.” His films often featured strong female characters, establishing him as a progressive and sensitive filmmaker of his time.
In 1952, he founded Mehboob Studio in Bandra, Mumbai, which was considered a modern film studio of its era. The studio continues to host film and TV show shoots today.
Mehboob Khan’s crowning achievement came in 1957 with the film “Mother India,” featuring Nargis, Sunil Dutt, and Rajendra Kumar. This film not only earned international acclaim but was also nominated for an Oscar, solidifying its place as one of the greatest films in Indian cinema. Mehboob Khan passed away on May 28, 1964, at the age of 56.
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