
Chandramohan
Chandramohan (1905–1949) was one of the most compelling and charismatic actors of early Indian cinema, known for his piercing eyes, expressive intensity, and command over dialogue delivery. Born in Narayangaon, Maharashtra, he began his film career with Amrit Manthan (1934), directed by V. Shantaram, where his performance as a scheming high priest instantly established him as a powerful screen presence. His aristocratic features and theatrical background made him a natural fit for historical and mythological roles. He became a mainstay in major productions throughout the 1930s and 40s, notably in Pukar (1939), where he played Emperor Jehangir with a complex blend of authority and humanity. Chandramohan was often cast in morally ambiguous or villainous roles, yet he brought a rare psychological depth to each character—whether as a tortured prince, a tyrant, or a tragic antihero. His performances in Roti (1942), Humayun (1945), and Shaheed (1948) are especially remembered for their theatrical elegance and emotional resonance. Despite his immense talent, Chandramohan’s life was marred by personal struggles, including alcoholism, which led to his untimely death at the age of 44. He left behind a relatively small but deeply influential body of work, and is still regarded as one of the finest character actors of his era—one whose dramatic flair and intense gaze left an indelible mark on early Indian cinema.
Known For
Credits
- 1948 · Ram Baan as Ravan
- 1948 · Shaheed as Seth Rai Bahadur Dwarkadas
- 1946 · Shalimar as Emperor Jehangir
- 1945 · Humayun as Rajkumar Randhir
- 1945 · Nursemaid Panna as Banbir
- 1945 · Ramayani as
- 1944 · Mumtaz Mahal as Emperor Shah Jahan
- 1944 · Raunaq as
- 1943 · Fashion as Yusuf
- 1943 · Naukar as Fazlu
- 1943 · Taqdeer as Justice Jamunaprasad
- 1943 · Shakuntala as King Dushyanta
- 1942 · Roti as Laxmidas
- 1942 · Jhankar as
- 1942 · Apna Ghar as Narendra
- 1940 · Geeta as Shankar/Mohan
- 1940 · Bharosa as Rasik
- 1939 · Pukar as Shahenshaah Jehangir
- 1938 · Jwala as Angar
- 1936 · Amar Jyoti as Durjaya
- 1935 · Dharmatma as Mahant
- 1934 · Amrit Manthan as Rajguru