Om Puri is an actor. He is one of India’s most prominent actors, known for his various roles in Indian and international films.
Born in Ambala, India, he rose to fame with riveting performances in parallel films, notably as a gritty cop in “Ardh Satya” (1983).
His international works, such as East is East (1999) and City of Joy (1992), demonstrate his versatility across genres and cultures.
contour
- Full name: Om Rajesh Puri
- Date of birth: October 18, 1950
- Age (as of 2024): 74 (deceased)
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Ambala, Haryana, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Occupation: Actor
- Height: 5’7″ (170 cm)
- Parents: Not applicable
- Siblings: Not applicable
- Spouse: Nandita Puri (divorced)
- Children: Ethan Puri
- Relationship status: Divorced
- Religion: Hinduism
- Ethnicity: Punjabi
- Net worth: $20 million
early life and education
Om Puri was born on October 18, 1950, in Ambala, Haryana, to a Punjabi Hindu family.
His father worked in the army and railroads. Puri’s early life was marked by poverty due to his father’s imprisonment, which forced him to work odd jobs while attending school.
Despite these challenges, Om Puri continued his education, completing his studies at the National School of Drama, Delhi (NSD) and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).
At NSD, he formed a lasting friendship with Naseeruddin Shah, who later became his colleague in parallel films.
Puri’s acting education began in theater and he graduated with a major in theatre, laying the foundation for his illustrious career.
personal life
Om Puri married journalist Nandita Puri in 1993 and they have a son, Ishaan Puri. However, their relationship was tumultuous.
In 2009, Nandita published a biography called Om Puri, which revealed controversial details about his past relationships. This put a deep strain on their marriage, leading to their eventual separation.
Puri’s personal life has had its ups and downs, including domestic abuse allegations and his public clashes with Nandita.
Later in his life, Puri separated from his wife, and they officially parted ways before his death.
Profession
Om Puri’s career began in the late 1970s working in art films. His early performances in films such as “Aakrosh” (1980) and “Ardh Satya” (1983) earned him critical acclaim and national recognition.
He has also worked in mainstream Bollywood films. However, his portrayal of complex, unconventional characters in films such as “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro” (1983) and “Mirch Masala” (1986) cemented his status as a serious actor.
Puri’s international career flourished in the 1990s, with roles in British and Hollywood films such as My Son (1997), East is East (1999) and The Ghost and the Dark (1996).
Awards
- National Film Award for Best Actor (Arohan* and Ardh Satya)
- OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) (2004)
net worth
Om Puri’s net worth at the time of his death in 2017 was estimated to be approximately $20 million.
This wealth has been accumulated through his work in Indian films, international films and television and his role in producing and providing sounds for various projects.
die
Om Puri died of heart disease on January 6, 2017 at the age of 66.
His sudden death is a great loss to the global film industry, with condolences pouring in from colleagues and fans around the world.
dispute
Om Puri was no stranger to controversy in his life. One of the biggest scandals involves his remarks during a televised debate after the 2016 Uri attack, in which he appeared to insult Indian soldiers by claiming that no one was forcing them to join the army.
The remarks sparked public outrage and legal action. Puri later apologized for the remark.
Another major controversy was his tumultuous marriage to Nandita Puri, who accused him of domestic violence.
Their issues were widely publicized after the release of her biography, which revealed his past relationship.
Puri has also faced backlash for his comments on political issues, including his criticism of India’s beef ban and his sympathy for Naxalites, whom he described as “rights fighters”. Adding to his controversial public profile.
social media
- Instagram: Not applicable
- Twitter: @omrajeshpuri
film chronology
- Akrosh(1980)
- Adesatya(1983)
- Jan B.do Yarrow(1983)
- East is East(1999)
- Ghosts and Darkness(1996)
- Happy City(1992)
- Gandhigiri(2016)
- Charlie Wilson’s War (2007)
