Cinemaazi remembers Nilu Phule on his death anniversary

One of the most renowned actors of the Marathi stage, Nilu Phule passed away on 13 July, 2009. But his early interest was in gardening, and he wished to start his own nursery. He wrote his first play Udyan based on a Tagore novel. His folk-play, Yeraa Gabalache Kam Nohe was a political satire which gained some popularity. But it was the play Sakharam Binder which proved to be his breakthrough. He made his film debut in Ek Gaav Bara Bhanagadi (1968). He gained great notoriety for his prowess in playing villainous roles, leading to him being typecast in Marathi and Hindi films. Despite he delivered some memorable performances in films like Mukkam Post Dhebewadi (1969), Pinjra (1972), Samna (1975), Choricha Mamla (1975), Sinhasan (1980), Saaransh (1984) and many more. His discomfort with the Hindi dialect meant that he did more Marathi dramas and films. He was particularly adept at playing corrupt politicians, essaying some truly despicable ones in his career.

In image: Nilu Phule in Sinhasan (1980). Courtesy: Film History Pics