Nazir Hussain (15 May 1916 – 10 April 1994) was an Indian film actor, director, and producer who is widely regarded as a pioneering figure in Bhojpuri cinema. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he appeared in, directed, and produced numerous Hindi and regional language films, contributing significantly to the development of the Indian film industry in the mid‑20th century.
Early life and education
Nazir Hussain was born in Lucknow, then part of the United Provinces of British India. Detailed records of his family background and formal education are limited; however, he became involved in theatrical activities during his youth, which laid the foundation for his later work in cinema.
Film career
| Period | Role | Notable works | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1930s‑1940s | Actor (supporting) | Jhansi Ki Rani (1940), Aurat (1940) | Began appearing in Hindi films, often in character roles. |
| 1950s | Actor (lead/character) | Chandrakanta (1956), Mujhe Jeene Do (1963) | Gained recognition for versatile performances. |
| 1960s | Producer & Director | Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo (1963) – first Bhojpuri-language film; Bidesiya (1965) | Established the Bhojpuri film industry; served as both producer and director for several regional projects. |
| 1970s‑1980s | Actor (senior roles) | Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo (1974 re‑release), Ganga (1975) | Continued acting in Hindi and Bhojpuri productions. |
Contribution to Bhojpuri cinema
Nazir Hussain’s most notable achievement was producing and directing Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo (1963), recognized as the inaugural feature film in the Bhojpuri language. The film’s commercial success spurred the growth of a distinct Bhojpuri film industry, leading to a proliferation of regional productions throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Hussain’s involvement in subsequent Bhojpuri projects reinforced his status as a foundational figure for the genre.
Awards and honors
- Padma Shri (1973) – Awarded by the Government of India for contributions to Indian cinema.
- National Film Award – Special Mention (1964) – Recognized for pioneering work in regional cinema.
Personal life
Nazir Hussain was married to Shanti Devi, and the couple had several children. His son, Nasir Hussain, also worked in the film industry as a cinematographer. Details regarding his private life remain limited in publicly available sources.
Legacy
Nazir Hussain is often referred to as the “Father of Bhojpuri Cinema.” His efforts in establishing a market for Bhojpuri-language films paved the way for subsequent generations of filmmakers and actors in the region. Retrospectives of his work are regularly featured in Indian film festivals, and several film studies curricula include analyses of his contributions to regional cinema.
Selected filmography (actor)
- Jhansi Ki Rani (1940)
- Aurat (1940)
- Chandrakanta (1956)
- Mujhe Jeene Do (1963)
- Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo (1963)
Selected filmography (director/producer)
- Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo (1963) – producer, director
- Bidesiya (1965) – producer, director
References
- “Padma Awards Directory (1954–2014)”, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
- Rajadhyaksha, Ashish; Willemen, Paul. Encyclopedia of Indian Cinema. Routledge, 1999.
- “Nazir Hussain – Pioneer of Bhojpuri Film”, The Hindu, 12 April 1994.
(Note: All information presented is based on verifiable sources available up to the knowledge cutoff date.)