Navketan Films is a film production house based in Mumbai, India. Started in 1949 by actor-director and producer Dev Anand and his elder brother Chetan Anand. Some iconic movies such as Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Johny Mera Naam, Guide, Heera Panna, Ishk Ishk Ishk were released by Navketan films over the years.
Anand’s marriage to actress Kalpana Kartik marked a significant and joyous chapter in his personal life, characterised by love and companionship. Kalpana, a talented actress, played a crucial role both on and off-screen, contributing to their shared experiences and enhancing the allure of Dev Anand’s remarkable life through their heartfelt union.
Dev Anand was a die-hard fan of the legendary Charlie Chaplin. When Anand met Chaplin at the latter’s residence in Switzerland in 1954, as a tribute to the evergreen classic THE GREAT DICTATOR(1940), Anand greeted Chaplin with a Nazi salute and proclaimed “Heil Chaplin”. A delighted Chaplin responded “Welcome to my White House”.
Anand was banned from donning a black suit in public at the height of his popularity because it made women drool over him. When he used to wear a black suit, his insane female followers would start sending him messages that were written in their blood and jumping from buildings.
Dev Anand’s first colour film, Guide with Waheeda Rehman was based on the novel of the same name by R. K. Narayan. Dev Anand himself was the impetus for making the film version of the book. He met and persuaded Narayan to give his assent to the project. Dev Anand tapped his friends in Hollywood to launch an Indo-US co-production that was shot in Hindi and English simultaneously and was released in 1965. Guide, directed by younger brother Vijay Anand, was an acclaimed movie. Dev played Raju, a voluble guide, who supports Rosy (Waheeda) in her bid for freedom. He is not above thoughtlessly exploiting her for personal gains. Combining style with substance, he gave an affecting performance as a man grappling with his emotions in his passage through love, shame, and salvation.
Johny Mera Naam, again a thriller, in which Dev Anand was paired opposite Hema Malini was a huge blockbuster. In fact it was the biggest blockbuster in Indian cinema till that date. It was Johnny Mera Naam which made Hema Malini a big star.
He marked a significant milestone in his career with the directorial effort of “Hare Rama Hare Krishna.” The film, known for its exploration of societal issues and the hippie culture, showcased Anand’s versatility as a filmmaker. This film remains a timeless classic in Indian cinema, reflecting Anand’s storytelling prowess and ability to address contemporary themes. Zeenat Aman his find became an overnight sensation.
Dev Anand became very political active once the Emergency was announced in 1975. He led a group of film personalities who stood up against the Internal Emergency imposed by the then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. He actively campaigned against her with his supporters in the Indian parliamentary elections in 1977. He also formed a party called the National Party of India, which he later disbanded.
In the 2 decades, Dev Anand continued his passion for movies and acted and / or directed movies
– Des Pardes
– Man Pasand
– Lootmaar
– Swami Dada
– Anand and Anand
– Hum Naujawan
– Lashkar
– Sachche ka Bolbala
– Pyaar ka Tarsana
– Gangster
– Return of Jewel Thief
Vajpayee’s (India’s Prime Minister) as a diplomatic initiative to improve relationship with Pakistan took a bus journey from Delhi to Lahore. The inaugural bus also had Indian celebrities and dignitaries such as Dev Anand. Nawaz Sharif, the Pakistan Prime Minister was a big fan of Dev Anand.
This renowned Indian actor, director, and producer was honored with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2001 for his significant contributions to the Indian film industry.
This prestigious accolade recognized his exceptional talent, dedication, and lasting impact on Indian cinema.
Dev Anand was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Indian cinema at the fourth International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA) held at the SunDome in Johannesburg on May 17, 2003. This recognition celebrated his outstanding legacy and lasting impact on the Bollywood film industry.
“Romancing with Life” is Dev Anand’s autobiography that delves into his extraordinary life story, encompassing his upbringing in Punjab, challenges faced in Bombay, rise to fame, and relationships with family and peers. Through a blend of anecdotes, humor, and reflections on life and cinema, the book provides readers with a unique perspective on the iconic actor. Interestingly, “Romancing with Life” was launched at a birthday celebration attended by the Indian Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, adding to the significance of the event and highlighting the widespread appeal and influence of Dev Anand’s memoir.