Sunil Dutt Biography – Explore the life of Sunil Dutt, an iconic Indian actor and politician, known for his remarkable contributions to cinema and society. Learn about his net worth, age, early life, education, family, career achievements, and more.
Sunil Dutt was a legendary figure in Indian cinema and politics, renowned for his versatile acting, humanitarian efforts, and dedication to public service. His journey from a small village in Punjab to becoming a celebrated actor and respected politician is both inspiring and commendable.
Sunil Dutt Biography: Profile Summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Sunil Dutt (born Balraj Raghunath Dutt) |
| Profession | Actor, Producer, Director, Politician |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Age | Born on June 6, 1929; Passed away on May 25, 2005 (aged 75) |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in History (Hons.) from Jai Hind College, Mumbai |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Height | Approximately 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Father | Diwan Raghunath Dutt |
| Wife | Nargis Dutt (married in 1958) |
| Children | Sanjay Dutt (son), Namrata Dutt (daughter), Priya Dutt (daughter) |
| Notable Awards | Padma Shri (1968), Filmfare Awards for Best Actor, Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1995) |
Important Facts
- Versatile Actor: Sunil Dutt showcased his acting prowess in a variety of roles, earning critical acclaim in Indian cinema.
- Political Career: Served as a Member of Parliament and as the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports in the Indian government.
- Humanitarian Efforts: Known for his philanthropic work, including the establishment of the Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Foundation.
- Family Legacy: Father of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt and politician Priya Dutt.
- Accolades: Honored with the Padma Shri in 1968 and multiple Filmfare Awards for his contributions to cinema.
Early Life and Education
Sunil Dutt was born as Balraj Raghunath Dutt on June 6, 1929, in Khurd, Punjab, British India (now in Pakistan). He hailed from a Punjabi Hindu family of the Hussaini Brahmin caste. His father, Diwan Raghunath Dutt, passed away when Sunil was just five years old. During the Partition of India in 1947, his family relocated to Mandauli in East Punjab (now Haryana), thanks to the protection of a Muslim friend of his father. Sunil later moved to Mumbai, where he pursued his education at Jai Hind College, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History (Hons.) in 1954.
Career Beginnings and Breakthrough
Sunil Dutt began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio announcer at Radio Ceylon. His deep voice and charismatic presence led him to the silver screen. He made his acting debut in 1955 with the film “Railway Platform.” However, it was his role in “Mother India” (1957) that catapulted him to fame. In this film, he starred opposite Nargis, who would later become his wife.
Rise to Prominence
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Sunil Dutt delivered numerous memorable performances in films such as “Mujhe Jeene Do” (1963), “Khandan” (1965), “Padosan” (1968), and “Reshma Aur Shera” (1971). His versatility allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from romantic leads to intense dramatic roles. He was also known for his singing abilities, contributing to the soundtracks of several of his films.
Political Career and Humanitarian Work
In 1984, Sunil Dutt entered politics by joining the Indian National Congress. He was elected as a Member of Parliament for the Mumbai North West constituency and served multiple terms. In 2004, he was appointed as the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports. Beyond politics, Dutt was deeply involved in humanitarian efforts. Following the death of his wife, Nargis, due to cancer in 1981, he established the Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Foundation to support cancer patients and research.
Personal Life
Sunil Dutt married actress Nargis in 1958. Their union was both a personal and professional partnership, with both contributing significantly to Indian cinema and society. They had three children: son Sanjay Dutt, who became a prominent Bollywood actor; daughter Namrata Dutt; and daughter Priya Dutt, who followed her father’s footsteps into politics.
Career Achievements and Awards
Sunil Dutt’s illustrious career earned him several accolades, including:
- Padma Shri: Awarded in 1968 for his contributions to Indian cinema.
- Filmfare Awards: Won Best Actor awards and was honored with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1995.
- National Recognition: Remembered as one of the most successful actors of the 1960s and 1970s, with a legacy that continues to inspire.
Death
Sunil Dutt passed away due to a heart attack on May 25, 2005, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. His death marked the end of an era in Indian cinema and politics, but his legacy continues through his films, philanthropic work, and the ongoing contributions of his children to Indian society.
Conclusion
Sunil Dutt’s life was a blend of artistic excellence, public service, and compassionate humanitarianism. His contributions to Indian cinema and society have left an indelible mark, making him a revered figure whose legacy continues to inspire future generations.
FAQs About Sunil Dutt
1. What was Sunil Dutt’s net worth?
Sunil Dutt’s net worth was not publicly disclosed.
2. How tall was Sunil Dutt?
He was approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall.
3. Who was Sunil Dutt’s wife?
Sunil Dutt was married to actress Nargis Dutt.
4. Who is Sunil Dutt’s son?
His son is Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt.
5. What were some of Sunil Dutt’s notable movies?
Some of his notable films include “Mother India,” “Padosan,” “Mujhe Jeene Do,” and “Reshma Aur Shera.”
6. What was Sunil Dutt’s real name?
His birth name was Balraj Dutt.
7. How many children did Sunil Dutt have?
He had three children: Sanjay Dutt, Namrata Dutt, and Priya Dutt.
8. Which political party did Sunil Dutt belong to?
He was a member of the Indian National Congress.
9. What notable awards did Sunil Dutt receive?
He was honored with the Padma Shri in 1968 and received multiple Filmfare Awards for his contributions to Indian cinema.
10. When did Sunil Dutt pass away?
He passed away on May 25, 2005, at the age of 75.
