Mukri
Mohammed Umar Mukri, popularly known as Mukri, was an Indian actor renowned for his role as a comedian in Hindi films. Born Muhammad Umar Mukri on January 5, 1922, in Uran, he began his film career alongside Dilip Kumar in 1945 with the movie "Pratima." Over a 50-year span, he acted in over 600 films, known for his toothless smile, small stature, and exceptional comic timing. Notable films include "Mother India," "Sharabi," "Amar Akbar Anthony," "Laawaris," "Bombay to Goa," "Gopi," and "Kohinoor."
Mukri's career paralleled that of his schoolmate Dilip Kumar. He died on September 4, 2000, in Mumbai, at Lilavati Hospital, due to a heart attack and kidney failure. Present were Dilip Kumar, Saira Banu, Sunil Dutt, and his daughter Naseem Mukri, who managed the funeral.
In personal life, Mukri had five children: daughters Naseem and Amina, and sons Nasir, Farooque, and Bilal. Naseem contributed to the film industry by writing dialogues and screenplays for "Dhadkan" and acting in it. Mukri was religious and passionate about horse racing, owning horses and attending races weekly.
His filmography includes self-playing roles in "Kala Bazar," "Shrimanji," "Gomti Ke Kinare," "Raj Kapoor," "Sar Ankhon Par," and uncredited work in "Film Hi Film."
Mukri's legacy as a comedian remains significant in Indian cinema.