Cinemaazi remembers Rehman on his death anniversary

Today we relive the memory of the actor who personified sophistication onscreen—Rehman. He passed away this day in 1984. Born in Lahore, British India, into a family of Pashtun origin, on 23 June, 1921, he was named Sai'd Rehman Khan. Graduating from Robertson College in 1942, he went on to join the Royal Indian Air Force and trained as a pilot in Poona. However, films beckoned and started off as third assistant director to Vishram Bedekar at the studios in Pune. With his good looks, inherent style, and impressive voice, he soon moved to the front of the camera, being signed on for lead roles. His first film was Hum Ek Hain (1946), while his hits as hero include Pyar Ki Jeet (1948) and Badi Behen (1949), both opposite Suraiya. Moving on in time to supporting roles, he made an impact in films such as Pyaasa (1957), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) and Waqt (1965). Playing key roles in films such as the mystery Baharon Ki Manzil (1968), Saawan Kumar Tak’s drama Gomti Ke Kinare (1972), Dushman (1971) and Holi Aayi Re (1970), he also received four Filmfare nominations as Best Supporting Actor for Phir Subah Hogi (1958), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) andDil Ne Phir Yaad Kiya (1966). His vivid role as Chenoy Seth in B R Chopra’s Waqt remains one of his best loved performances. The year 1982 marked the release of his last three films, namely Dil Aakhir Dil Hain, Rajput and Vakil Babu. His total number of films stands at 113. Known to have maintained a low profile along with his wife, their few friends from the industry included Guru Dutt, Johnny Walker and Abrar Alvi. Rehman passed away on November 5, 1984.