Vinod Mehra: An invisible talent, dies at the age of 45.

Vinod Mehra, a mute performer, who is known for his chocolaty boy look but he never got attention for his cool performance. He died at the age of 45 when he was shooting his first directorial film ‘Gurudev.’ The film stars Anil Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor and Sri Devi. After his sudden demise noted director Raaj Sippy completed the film.

Vinod Mehra was a prominent actor who did not get the fame that he deserved but he had a decent career in Hindi cinema. He was born on February 13, 1945, in Amritsar, Punjab. Vinod Mehra had an elder sister named Sharda who worked in several films before he started his career in the 1970s. Vinod Mehra completed his formal schooling from Sacred Heart Boys High School Santacruz and later went to St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai for a Bachelor’s degree.

Vinod started his acting career at a young age. He debuted as a child actor in the 1955 film Adl-e-Jehangir at the age of ten. He played small roles in films such as Raagini (1958) and Bewaqoof (1960), playing the child version of Kishore Kumar. Later Vinod became a versatile and accomplished actor in the film industry.

Vinod Mehra was born into a Punjabi family, and his father was a film distributor. This early exposure to the film industry likely played a significant role in his decision to pursue a career in acting.

Vinod Mehra started his acting career as a leading man in the film “Ek Thi Rita” (1971) opposite Tanuja. He was among the one of the finalists in the 1965, All India Talent Contest organized by United Producers and Filmfare from more than ten thousand contestants. He lost the contest to Rajesh Khanna and became runner up of the contest.

However, it was his role in “Anuraag” (1971) opposite Nutan that earned him recognition as an actor. He was often cast in supporting roles and character-driven roles, showcasing his acting prowess. His early notable films include “Anuraag” (1972), “Parichay” (1972) and “Bemisal” (1982).

Vinod Mehra was appeared in film Parde Ke Peechey opposite debutant Yogeeta Bali followed by Elaan (with Rekha), Amar Prem (1971) and Lal Patthar, but it was only Shakti Samanta’s Anuraag (1973) with Moushumi Chatterjee, which established him as an actor in the industry.

Vinod Mehra was known for his versatility as an actor. He seamlessly transitioned between various genres, including romantic dramas, comedies, and action films. He appeared alongside top actresses of his time, such as Hema Malini, Bindiya Goswami, Yogita Bali, Mausami Chatterji, Rekha, and Shabana Azmi. Some of his memorable films include Amar Prem, The Burning Train, Saajan Bina Suhagan, Nagin, Jaani Dushman, Ghar, Swarg Narak, Kartavya, Saajan Bina Suhagan, Jurmana, Ek Hi Raasta, Yeh Kaisa Insaaf Sweekar Kiya Maine and Khud-Daar and Ghar.

Many of his films were released after his death, such as Patthar Ke Phool (1991 film), Insaniyat (1994) and Aurat Aurat Aurat (1996).

It is rumored that he was romantically associated with actress Rekha during the mid-70s, it was widely believed to have been married. Rekha denied having ever been married to him in an interview with Simi Grewal, she referred to him as a well-wisher. Many writers wrote about their marriage but unfortunately that was a well cooked rumor only.

Vinod Mehra’s first marriage to Meena Broca but this marriage could not work out because He eloped with his frequent leading lady of the time, Bindiya Goswami. His wife Meena had not left a choice to file for divorce. Vinod’s relationship with Bindiya ended quickly, and she soon left him to marry director J.P. Dutta.

In 1988, Vinod Mehra remarried Kiran, daughter of a Kenya-based transport businessman. This marriage lasted until his death. The couple had two children: a daughter named Soniya (born in 1988) and a son named Rohan (born posthumously).

After his death, his wife Kiran shifted to Kenya, to live with her parents. The children were raised in Mombasa and went to the UK for higher education. Both entered the film industry eventually. Soniya made her Hindi film debut in the 2007 film Victoria No. 203, a remake of the 1972 classic film of the same name. Rohan made his debut in Nikhil Advani’s Baazaar (2018). Both acting careers could not work out in the industry.

During his career, Vinod Mehra received critical acclaim and accolades for his performances. He was nominated for several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Anuraag” (1972).

Sadly, Vinod Mehra’s life was cut short at a relatively young age. On October 30, 1990, he passed away due to a heart attack in the United States. His untimely death was a shock to the film industry and his fans.

Vinod Mehra’s legacy continues to live on through his memorable performances and contributions to Indian cinema. He is remembered as a versatile actor who left an indelible mark on the world of Hindi cinema with his acting talent and charisma.