Happy Birthday Dilip Kumar: Devdas, Mughal E Azam and other unforgettable films that prove he's a legend

The adage 'Old is gold' encompasses many yesteryear stars in the Hindi film industry but if there is one star that reflects it in the truest sense is actor Dilip Kumar. The veteran actors turns 97 today and we cannot help but marvel at his almost five-decade long and colourful career during which he was fondly termed as the 'Tragedy King'. Known for bringing his impeccable and realistic acting skills to the silver screen, Dilip Kumar remains one of the few actors of his generation to have an active social media presence. 

From engaging with his fans and sharing pictures, Dilip Kumar has been ahead of his times in more ways than one. Today, on his 97th birthday, he took to Twitter to thanks his fans for all the love and birthday wishes. Dilip Kumar wrote, "On this 97th birthday, calls and messages have been pouring in since last night-thank you! Celebrations are not important- your boundless love, affection and prayers have always brought tears of gratitude in my eyes." 

And while we love the actor for his numerous films and varied yet remarkable characters, we took a trip down memory lane to look at Dilip Kumar's five unforgettable films. Take a look at his timeless classics: 

1. Devdas

Yes, we are all reminded of the terrific trio of Shah Rukh Khan, Madhuri Dixit and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan when he speak of Devdas. But much before the grand and opulent sets of Sanjay Leela Bhansali lit up the big screen, a young Dilip Kumar played an alcoholic in the original, black and white version of the film in 1955. The actor was applauded from all quarters for his fine acting skills and infusing life into this tragic tale. 

2. Naya Daur

Released in 1957, the film regaled audiences as it pitched a fight against 'man vs machine'. Dilip Kumar, who played the role of Shankar, a horse carriage driver, won the hearts of many with his humble character, an engaging script and his winning attitude despite difficult times. Dilip Kumar also won the Filmfare Award for Best Actor for the third time in a row for Naya Daur which was a commercial success.

3. Madhumati

One of the first few films in Hindi cinema to be based on reincarnation, Madhumati saw Dilip Kumar in a new light as Anand. The film which had a gothic noir feel saw Dilip Kumar and Vyjayantimala in the lead roles. Their tragic romance was the highlight and the film went on to win as many as nine awards -- the highest ever for any film at the time. While it inspired many other filmmakers, Dilip Kumar's acting was praised by critics and audiences alike. 

4. Ganga Jamuna

The talented actor turned a writer and producer for this crime drama. A break from his usual characters, Dilip Kumar was paired opposite his real-life brother Nasir Khan in the film as brothers. Dilip Kumar played the role of a dacoit, while his brother a police officer. Dilip Kumar's performance in the film was considered by many to be one of his finest. The film also went on to become one of the biggest hit of 1961. 

5. Mughal-E-Azam

Any list revolving around Dilip Kumar would be incomplete without a mention of this epic 1960 drama. From dialogues to characters to songs, Mughal-E-Azam has iconic written all over it. A milestone in many ways, the film saw Dilip Kumar play the role of Mughal Prince Salim who fought with his Emperor father for the love of his life. This tale of love broke box office records and became one of the highest grossing films of all time. As per reports, the film was on the number one spot for a good run of 15 years and we cannot re-imagine this cast any other way.

These are just a few of the many, many films of the legendary Dilip Kumar. Which is your favourite film of the actor? Let us know in the comments below.  

Here's wishing Dilip Kumar a happy birthday!