A.K. Hangal — a name etched in the golden era of Hindi cinema — was once considered Bollywood’s most respected character actor. With a career spanning over five decades and appearances in more than 200 films, Hangal embodied a wide range of memorable roles, from the wise father figure to the kind-hearted elder. Yet, the final chapter of his life was marked by heartbreak, financial struggle, political fallout, and near-complete abandonment by the film industry he had helped shape.
From Theatre to Cinema Glory
Born in 1914, Avtar Kishan Hangal was a freedom fighter before he became an actor. He was jailed by the British for his role in the independence movement and only entered the world of acting after 1947. After moving to Mumbai, he became a prominent member of the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA), where he worked alongside legends like Balraj Sahni and Kaifi Azmi.
His film journey took off in the late 1960s, and he went on to play iconic roles in films such as Sholay, Bawarchi, Aaina, Aandhi, Namak Haraam, and Lagaan. His soft-spoken nature and humble demeanor made him a beloved on-screen figure.
Political Fallout and Shiv Sena 'Ban'
In the early 1990s, Hangal became a target of right-wing ire after he accepted an invitation to visit Pakistan — the country of his birth. Shiv Sena, then rising in political power in Maharashtra, took strong exception to this. The party reportedly “banned” him — calling for a boycott of his films and allegedly pressuring filmmakers not to cast him.
The incident shattered his already fragile career and contributed to his gradual isolation from mainstream cinema. In interviews, Hangal admitted he was deeply hurt by the vilification, especially after everything he had contributed to India’s freedom and cultural landscape.
Poverty and Neglect
In the 2000s, Hangal's health began to deteriorate. Despite his contribution to Indian cinema, he struggled to pay his medical bills. At the age of 97, he was bedridden and living in near destitution in a small flat in Mumbai. In 2011, reports surfaced about his poverty, prompting a few in the industry — including Jaya Bachchan and Salman Khan — to offer assistance. But these gestures came too late.
Hangal passed away on August 26, 2012, at the age of 98. Despite being one of the most respected actors in Indian cinema, his funeral was a quiet affair. Few from the industry showed up to pay their last respects.
A Forgotten Legend
The absence of major Bollywood stars at his funeral sparked criticism and reflection on how the film industry treats its veterans. Hangal’s legacy, though forgotten by many, remains imprinted on Indian cinema. His roles continue to be revered by those who value substance over stardom.
In his own words, spoken shortly before his death, “I never asked for riches or fame. I only wanted respect and a place in the hearts of people. That’s all.”
FAQ
Q1. Who was A.K. Hangal?
A.K. Hangal (Avtar Kishan Hangal) was a veteran Indian character actor known for his roles in over 200 Hindi films, as well as a freedom fighter associated with India’s independence movement.
Q2. Why was A.K. Hangal 'banned' by Shiv Sena?
In the early 1990s, Hangal was reportedly boycotted by Shiv Sena after he visited Pakistan. The party objected to his visit and allegedly pressured filmmakers not to cast him.
Q3. Which are some of A.K. Hangal’s most famous films?
He is best remembered for roles in Sholay, Bawarchi, Aandhi, Namak Haraam, Aaina, and Lagaan, among many others.
Q4. What was A.K. Hangal’s contribution outside of cinema?
Before his film career, Hangal was a committed freedom fighter who spent three years in prison during British rule. He was also deeply involved in progressive theatre through IPTA.
Q5. Why did A.K. Hangal die in poverty?
In his later years, Hangal suffered from health issues and financial hardship. With limited work and support, he struggled to afford treatment and basic necessities despite his fame.
Q6. Did Bollywood support A.K. Hangal in his final years?
Support from the film fraternity was minimal and sporadic. Though a few actors like Salman Khan and Jaya Bachchan helped briefly, the majority of the industry remained distant.
Q7. Who attended A.K. Hangal’s funeral?
Very few celebrities attended his funeral, which drew criticism for the industry's neglect of its legends. It was a modest ceremony, in stark contrast to his contributions to cinema.
Q8. How is A.K. Hangal remembered today?
Though not widely celebrated today, Hangal is revered among film historians and cinephiles as one of the finest character actors of Indian cinema. His performances continue to inspire actors and filmmakers.
Publish on JUNE 4,2025 by :selvi