Remembering Bollywood’s yesteryear actor Mahipal on his birth anniversary (11/11).

Remembering Bollywood’s yesteryear actor Mahipal on his birth anniversary (11/11).

His cinematic journey began with the 1942 movie “Nazrana.” Although this debut didn’t garner much success, he soon found his niche in lyric writing, collaborating with V. Shantaram on four films. This partnership brought him significant recognition. He also worked with notable directors like Sohrab Modi and the Wadia Brothers — Homi Wadia and J. B. H. Wadia. His most acclaimed work, however, was with V. Shantaram.

He featured in various mythological and historical films, sharing the screen with celebrated actresses like Nirupa Roy, Mala Sinha, and Meena Kumari. His foray into fantasy, particularly with Arabian Nights-themed films like “Alibaba and 40 Thieves” (1954), “Jennie” (1953), “Aladdin Aur Jadui Chirag” (1952), and “Alibaba ka Beta” (1955), earned him fame in the Gulf countries as well.

Transitioning to character roles later in his career, he appeared in successful films like “Jai Santoshi Maa” (1975). He passed away in Mumbai at the age of 86 due to cardiac arrest.