Vinod Khanna Birth Anniversary: Mere Apne to Chandni, take a look at some of his iconic roles

Vinod Khanna was not just a big name in the Bollywood industry, but was an era in himself. Dard ki dawa naa ho toh dard ko hi dawa samajh lena chahiye - well, who can forget this dialogue from his one of the memorable movies, Chandni. He made sure that every time he came on the big screen, he left an indelible impression on the mind of the viewer. He made his debut with Man Ka Meet (1969), produced by Sunil Dutt and directed by A Subba Rao. Well, post Man Ka Meet, the actor went to do many villainous and supporting roles in films like Purab Aur Paschim, Sachaa Jhutha, Mastana and Elaan. 

But, his big Bollywood dream came true when he got Hum Tum Aur Woh in 1971 as a hero. It was directed by Shiv Kumar and after this film, there was no looking back for the actor. Vinod Khanna left a void in Bollywood when he bid his final farewell on April 27, 2017. It was a huge loss for the industry and fans were left heart-broken. Many actors even called his death as the 'end of an era'. He died at the age of 70 at Mumbai’s HN Reliance Hospital. He was said to be suffering from cancer. He was last seen in the 2015 Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Dilwale. On his 71st birth anniversary, we go through some of his iconic roles. 

Amar Akbar Anthony

Anhoni ko honi kar den honi ko anahoni, ek jagah jab jama hon teenon amar akbar anthony - well, we can still hum this song and watch this movie again in 2018. It was a muti-starrer film with Vinod Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan and Rishi Kapoor in the lead roles. But, this film can't be imagined without these three in the frame. Vinod Khanna's character toned down the extra exuberant nature of his two brother. His character sobered down the pace and gave the much needed stability to the script of the film.  

Dayavan

The movie grabbed headlines for the famous kiss between Vinod Khanna and Madhuri Dixit. But, it can't be denied that Vinod's role was praise-worthy. He played the lead role in the movie where his character takes revenge from the local police as they killed his father. 

Imtihan

Inspired by the famous British film To Sir, with Love, Imtihaan had Vinod playing a lecturer who tries to reform a group of students, lead by the villain - Ranjeet. The movie had even inspired the television series Jeet. Vinod's big glasses became a fashion trend back in that era.

Mere Apne

Well, this can easily be called one of the best Vinod Khanna films. It was Gulzar's directorial venture and was the remake of National Award-winning Bengali film Apanjan. Vinod Khanna showcased his acting skills and was appreciated for his role.

Chandni 

Chandni was love story that revolved around the characters of Rishi Kapoor and Sridevi but it was Vinod Khanna who gets the major twist in the tale of the two lovers. It was because of him that Rishi and Sridevi finally reunite in the film. 

You will always be alive in our memories, Vinod ji!