Rajendra Nath was one of the most beloved comic actors of Hindi cinema’s golden era. With his trademark innocent expressions, impeccable timing, and lovable presence, he brought joy to countless moviegoers. Whether playing the goofy friend, the bumbling brother, or the well-meaning sidekick, Rajendra Nath’s contributions to Bollywood comedy remain unforgettable.
Rajendra Nath was born in 1931 in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, into a Punjabi family. He was the younger brother of well-known actor Prem Nath and related to Bollywood legends Raj Kapoor and Prithviraj Kapoor through family ties. The acting bug bit him early, and he moved to Mumbai to pursue his passion.
Rajendra Nath studied at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, where he polished his craft before stepping into the world of films. He initially started his career with theatre and later transitioned into films, quickly gaining recognition for his flair in comedy.
Here’s a look at 7 memorable performances that define the legacy of Rajendra Nath and celebrate his remarkable journey in Indian cinema.
1. Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai (1961)
In this romantic comedy starring Dev Anand and Asha Parekh, Rajendra Nath stole the show with his hilarious antics as Popat Lal. His scenes added a perfect comic balance to the film’s romantic narrative, and his chemistry with the lead actors became a major highlight.
2. An Evening in Paris (1967)
Rajendra Nath played a classic comic relief role in this Shammi Kapoor–Sharmila Tagore starrer. His scenes in the foreign setting, filled with confusion and wit, were among the most entertaining parts of the film. He became a familiar face in many Shammi Kapoor movies, complementing the energetic lead with his subtle humour.
3. Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon (1963)
As part of Nasir Hussain’s popular film, Rajendra Nath added comic flavour to this romantic thriller. His character was funny without being over-the-top, proving his ability to fit seamlessly into a story while making audiences laugh.
4. Mere Sanam (1965)
Rajendra Nath played the character of Shyam, whose innocent mistakes and hilarious one-liners made him a standout in a cast filled with big names. His natural flair for light comedy and his timing became a consistent draw for audiences.
5. Teen Deviyan (1965)
In this offbeat romantic film starring Dev Anand, Rajendra Nath brought warmth and laughter in a more subdued role. His presence never overshadowed the narrative but added just the right touch of humour to keep the story engaging.
6. Kashmir Ki Kali (1964)
Another collaboration with Shammi Kapoor, this romantic musical featured Rajendra Nath in a comical supporting role that showcased his signature expressions and lovable foolishness. His lighthearted contribution enhanced the overall entertainment value of the film.
7. Raja Saab (1969)
As Shammi Kapoor’s confidant and comic companion, Rajendra Nath once again delivered a delightful performance. His consistency in playing the humorous best friend became his trademark throughout the 1960s and early ’70s.
He was born in 1931 in Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajendra Nath Malhotra began his career on stage before making his film debut in the 1950s. A graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), he was the younger brother of noted actor Prem Nath. While Prem Nath played strong and dramatic roles, Rajendra Nath became synonymous with innocent and situational comedy.
Over the span of Comic legend Rajendra Nath’s career, he appeared in over 150 films, often working with top stars like Shammi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna, and Dev Anand. He was also a favorite of filmmaker Nasir Hussain, who cast him in many of his most successful films.
Despite playing mostly supporting roles, Rajendra Nath’s impact was significant. He showed that comedy doesn’t need to be loud or slapstick to be effective—it could be endearing, character-driven, and timeless. Rajendra Nath may not have been the hero of the story, but he was always the heart of the humour. His unique blend of innocence, timing, and charm made him one of Bollywood’s most reliable and loved comic actors. Even today, his performances continue to make audiences smile, reminding us of the magic of classic Indian cinema.
