Screen legend Prem Chopra, known for playing negative roles in cult classics like Do Raaste, Prem Nagar, Upkar and Bobby, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. He won widespread acclaim and established himself as the undisputed king of villains on screen. His ability to embody negative characters with panache and depth set him apart and earned him a devoted fan base.
Prem Chopra not only established himself in the Indian film industry, but also gained recognition abroad for his iconic negative roles. In his recent interview, he revealed his experience working in English-language films and provided insight into his foray into international films.
Prem Chopra explains his decision to refrain from appearing in English films
In an interview with ANI, Prem Chopra revealed that he has been offered the role of The Godfather in a Hollywood film that pays homage to Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic film ‘The Godfather’. “I jumped at it because I was the godfather,” he said. However, upon arriving on set, he realized that his role was not important to the plot and merely served as a reference to the film.
Reflecting on her experience in the 2012 film Heartland, Chopra said that she is adamant about speaking in English, a Punjabi language whose primary language is Punjabi, citing deeply rooted personal principles stemming from deep experience. He played the role of a Sardar who refuses to do so.
Chopra revealed in the film that his character’s son-in-law is based in America and the prospective British girl has been sent there to seek approval for their marriage. However, Chopra felt conflicted about marrying his son into a community that had a different view of him due to his past experiences. He recounted incidents in which people in this community mistreated Indians. Among them was a close friend of the military who was denied a proper funeral after his death.
“We were all in the military. They treated the Indians like animals. My best friend died and they didn’t even give them a proper funeral, they just threw them out. I decided not to speak the language at all,” Chopra explained. Nevertheless, he informed the girl: “Considering the environment in which you were brought up, I see that you are a very simple person, and I think you are suitable for marriage.”
In addition to Chopra, the Fred Holmes-directed film Heartland also starred Stephen M. Singh, Amelia Jackson-Gray, and Divya Dutta.
The forefront of Prem Chopra’s work
Chopra’s illustrious career spanned more than 60 years, appearing in over 400 films, and is fondly remembered for her iconic negative roles. Starring Rishi Kapoor, Bobby’s memorable line “Prem naam hai mera…Prem Chopra” (Prem is my name…Prem Chopra) catapulted him to overnight stardom as a villain.
Throughout his career, the veteran actor has left an indelible mark on the industry with notable performances in films like ‘Upkaar’, ‘Purab Aur Pashchim’, ‘Do Raaste’ and ‘Phool Bane Angaarey’. Recently, he graced the screens with the action thriller Animal, where he came into limelight for playing the lead role alongside stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol and Rashmika Mandana.
