Dev Anand Birth Anniversary: From Kala Pani To Guide, Revisiting 6 Best Films Of The Legendary Actor

On the occasion of Dev Anand's 99th birthday, we hope to remember him through his most iconic films!

Dev Anand Birth Anniversary

Source : IMDb

New Delhi: Dev Anand will live on in the memories of many people forever. The actor, who was born on September 26, 1923, as Dharam Devdutt Pishorimal Anand, captivated us from the start of his career. 

People remember Dev Anand as a legendary actor whose brilliance was beyond limits and whose charisma has never been matched. His charmingly childlike demeanour and impressive acting skills drove audiences nuts. 

On his 99th birth anniversary, let’s take a look at his 6 best films of all time:

Kala Pani (1958)

Directed by Raj Khosla ‘Kala Pani’ is the first film that comes to mind while thinking about Dev Anand's finest works. Dev Anand's portrayal of a man who is determined to prove his father’s innocence is full of passion. He also showcased his haughty romanticism in the film. 

Adapted from A.J. Cronin's book, ‘Beyond This Place,’ this 1958 Hindi film is a reimagining of the Bengali film ‘Sabar Upaarey,’ which first premiered in 1955.

Hum Dono (1961)

Dev Anand's dual performance in Hum Dono was a triumph for the actor. Dev Anand's ability to convincingly play both characters established him as a legendary actor. In the film, Dev Anand played two roles. The film is about two people who look identical but aren't twins and end up swapping their lives. 

In the film, the chemistry between him and Sadhana was highly appreciated.

Guide (1965)

‘Guide’ is a film that combines elements of romance and drama, and stars Waheeda Rehman and Dev Anand. This film, which depicts a character's struggles and anguish so convincingly, is unquestionably Dev Sahab’s finest work. 

In this film, Dev Anand created a new persona in the role of Raju Guide, and he really stunned us with it. Raju helps launch Rosy's career but ultimately leads him down a path of corruption and misery.

Jewel Thief (1967)

In many ways, this film stands as the defining moment of Dev Anand's career. We all enjoyed Dev Anand's performance in this film. Dev Sahab was depicted in a very unusual and distinct light in this criminal thriller starring Dev Anand, Vyjayanthimala, Ashok Kumar, Tanuja, and Helen. This 1967 released film has also produced some of the most enduring classics in Indian film music.

Johny Mera Naam (1970)

He once again delivered us a masterpiece with 'Johny Mera Naam'. Dev Anand's performance as Johny is widely regarded as one of his most iconic roles. ‘Johny Mera Naam’ was an intriguing movie about two long-lost brothers, multiple villains, and some of the most flavourful song-and-dance ever filmed in Hindi cinema. 

Hare Rama Hare Krishna (1971)

This was the sweetest and most sensitive film by Dev Sahab, about siblings who are split up because their parents can't get along. The film's setting in Kathmandu adds to the sense of mystery and sorrow that transfuses the story. The film dealt with the immorality of the hippie lifestyle and also highlighted the troubles related to drug use. 

Dev Anand and Zeenat Aman are two of the greatest performers of all time, so naturally, their on-screen chemistry is magical. The film was successful, and Zeenat Aman's role as a westernized hippy earned her many awards. 

On the occasion of Dev Anand's 99th birthday, we hope to remember him through his most iconic films!