The early life of this individual was marked by a childhood spent in Peshawar, where he had the opportunity to hone his theatrical skills, taking on significant roles. However, his primary vocation during the early years of his life was that of a tailor, a profession he pursued with dedication. Additionally, he was an ardent participant in the Indian freedom struggle, leaving an indelible mark on the movement.
Following the retirement of his father, the family relocated from Peshawar to Karachi. The Partition of India in 1949 led to a significant turning point in his life, as he moved to Bombay after spending three years in prison in Pakistan. During this period, he collaborated with the theater group IPTA, alongside prominent individuals such as Balraj Sahni and Kaifi Azmi, who shared Marxist leanings.
His entry into the Hindi film industry was marked by a late start at the age of 30, with Basu Bhattacharya's Teesri Kasam in 1946. He went on to become synonymous with the portrayal of meek and oppressed elderly characters in numerous Hindi films. Among his personal favorites are the roles he played in Sholay and Shaukeen, in which he showcased his impressive acting skills. Throughout his illustrious career, he has played a vast array of character roles, predominantly positive in nature, and has acted in over 125 films to date.
