Remembering one of Hindi cinema’s most popular and versatile character actors, Om Prakash, on his 99th birth anniversary today.

His versatility was unique. True, actors like Pran and Ashok Kumar achieved iconic heights, elevating the status of a character actor. Comical and negative roles were performed with the same flair but Om Prakash, for his stupendous contribution to Indian cinema, remained unsung. Awards eluded him even though he carried many a film on his shoulders.

To have begun as a radio artist and created a niche for himself in the highly competitive and demanding world of Hindi cinema was some achievement for this brilliant actor. He could make you laugh and cry and win hearts with his flawless and convincing acting.