Pran Krishan Sikand, who was known by millions of fans as only Pran, has died at age 93. The veteran actor was a star in India’s Bollywood, having appeared in films starting in the 1940s.
The Times of India reports that Pran died at the Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai on Friday at 8:30 p.m. local time.
According to The Associated Press, doctor Sanjeev Mehta said that Pran was admitted to the hospital two weeks ago.
His career spanned over six decades and included roles as heroes, villains and supporting characters in over 400 films. He began his career with 1945’s Yamla Jat and remained a popular star. Just last year, he was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his contribution to movies in India.
His best known villain roles came in films like Zanjeer, Bari Behen (Elder Sister) and Johnny Mera Naam (Johnny Is My Name).
India Today notes that countless Bollywood celebrities took to Twitter to pay tribute. Politicians also sent their condolences to his family.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh wrote, “I convey my heartfelt condolences to the the bereaved family and Pran's countless fans and admirers. I pray for peace of the departed soul.”
Pran is survived by wife Shukla Sikand and three children.
image: YouTube