In some films, the actor even played a father to people older than him.
"As an actor, I'm satisfied and enjoy portraying such characters. I'm unable to relate with any other character." - Alok Nath
Envision an affectionate father who values traditions and principles, and holds his family close no matter what. Now, I'm quite sure that the image that comes to your mind would be of Alok Nath, dressed in his trademark kurta-pajama, smiling, and exuding warmth. Because that's the impact the veteran actor has left with his fatherly roles in Hindi films. It's precisely the sanskari "Baabuji" that he embodied during the 1990s and early 2000s (much like how Nirupa Roy was the quintessential mother during the 70s and 80s). The essence of all his fatherly roles remained the same, and his portrayal was so authentic that it resonated with the masses deeply.
Alok Nath's legacy as Bollywood's Sanskari Papa is unparalleled; so much so that no other actor comes even close to him. As Father's Day is just around the corner, let's celebrate him by revisiting some of his best fatherly roles.
Alok Nath had already played fatherly roles in several films. But his performance as the doting father in 'Maine Pyar Kiya' was so powerful that it turned out to be a game-changer in his career. He played the father of the female lead, Suman (played by Bhagyashree), delivering a performance filled with love and sacrifice. The way he maintained a balance between the character's protective nature and vulnerability showcased his brilliance as an actor.
The film, starring Salman Khan as the lead, emerged as a major commercial success.
In 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', directed by Sooraj Barjatya, Alok Nath played Kailashnath, a doting father and uncle who embodies the spirit of traditional Indian families. He brought an enormous amount of warmth in his performance, making us see a reflection of our fathers in him. And he added more emotional depth to the film's narrative with his performance. Moreover, his on-screen chemistry with his co-actors was a major highlight as well.
Anupam Kher, Madhuri Dixit, and Alok Nath among others in 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!'
Subhash Ghai's 'Pardes' is considered one of the milestones in Alok Nath's career. His role as Suraj Dev, the father to Mahima Chaudhry's character, was the typical kind-hearted, traditional Indian father caught between traditions and modernity. With his performance, he represented the values of Indian families, resonating with the audience on a deeply personal level. Whether it's his dialogues, his interactions with other characters, or simply the emotions that he brought to the screen, his performance was one of a kind in the truest sense of the term.
Ramkishan Chaturvedi in 'Hum Saath-Saath Hain' is another memorable character played by Alok Nath. His character was of a wealthy man who emphasizes togetherness above all and is ready to go to any extent to bring happiness to his family. He captured the essence of the character perfectly, bringing all the emotions out and delivering a nuanced portrayal. And it also showcased his versatility that's been unfortunately unnoticed.
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Alok Nath and Reema Lagoo in ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’
The list doesn't end here. Besides these films, it also includes 'Taal', 'Agneepath', 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham...', and 'Vivah' among othe
