Mukri

Born: 5 January 1922

Mukri was a true comedy legend of Hindi cinema, racking up an incredible 600-plus films across a career that spanned nearly five decades starting from 1945. Born Muhammad Umar Mohiuddin Khan in Uran, he kicked off his journey alongside schoolmate Dilip Kumar in the film Pratima, and never looked back. That signature toothless grin and compact frame became iconic symbols of his craft, making him a reliable source of laughs in blockbusters like Mother India, Amar Akbar Anthony, Sharaabi, and Laawaris. His ability to steal scenes with minimal dialogue made him an invaluable supporting player in Hindi cinema's golden era. What set Mukri apart was his gift for physical comedy and impeccable timing—he could land a joke without uttering a single word, which made him a favorite across audiences of all ages. Whether he was playing a bumbling sidekick or a comic foil to the hero, Mukri brought a warmth and authenticity to his characters that made viewers root for him. His contribution to Bollywood was massive; he essentially defined how comic relief should be done in mainstream Hindi films. Right up until the 1990s, Mukri remained active in cinema, proving that genuine talent and likability never go out of style.