Picture this: Rajesh Khanna, mouth organ in hand, serenading his dream queen as a jeep hurtles through Darjeeling’s breathtaking landscapes. The song ‘Mere Sapnon Ki Rani Kab Aayegi Tu’ from ‘Aradhana’ defined an era, but the real hero steering that vehicle was Sujit Kumar—Bollywood’s steadfast sidekick who later claimed the throne as Bhojpuri cinema’s pioneering superstar.
Hailing from a simple agrarian background in Chakiya, Varanasi, on February 7, 1934, Shamsher Bahadur Singh was law-bound until director Phani Majumdar discovered his dramatic potential in a college play. Trading courtroom dreams for reel life, he became Sujit Kumar, conquering Hindi suspense flicks in the ’60s. ‘Laal Bangla’ (1966) showcased his brooding intensity, while ‘Bidesiya’ (1963) made him a household name in Purvanchal.
When Bhojpuri films faced extinction in the mid-1970s, Sujit unleashed ‘Dangal’ (1977)—a vibrant color spectacle that reignited passion with hits like ‘Kashi Hille Patna Hille.’ Exported to diasporas in Mauritius and Fiji, it cemented his status as the genre’s savior and first megastar. His early role in ‘Ganga Maiyya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo’ (1962) hinted at his regional prowess.
Masterfully balancing acts, Sujit essayed memorable supporting roles alongside Khanna in blockbusters like ‘Aradhana,’ ‘Amar Prem,’ and ‘Avatar,’ becoming synonymous with success. His police avatars—from ‘Ittefaak’s’ sleuth to ‘Krantiveer’s’ top cop—added grit to narratives.
A producer par excellence, he co-founded Shiv Bhakti Films, backing hits such as ‘Khel,’ ‘Darrar,’ and ‘Champion.’ ‘Paan Khaye Saiyaan Hamar’ (1984) drew Bachchan and Rekha for cameos, a testament to his stature. Bonds with Jeetendra and Rakesh Roshan fueled the ‘Juhu Circle’ camaraderie.
Illness came calling in 2007, but family support endured until his passing on February 5, 2010. Sujit Kumar’s lifetime achievement in Bhojpuri cinema endures, a beacon for actors bridging mainstream and folkloric worlds with unmatched dedication.