Biography of Mehboob Khan

(1907 - May 28, 1964)

Mehboob Khan's strong socialist beliefs, along with his ability to make cinema to stimulate the sensibilities of the viewers, were the key factors to his genius.

Mehboob Khan was born as Ramjan Khan in 1907. Coming from a small village in Gujarat, he ran away to Mumbai and spent his early youth seeking work in various Mumbai studios. From playing small insignificant roles, he went on to direct films for Sagar Studios in the mid-1930. His film Aurat, based on Pearl Buck's novel, Mother, achieved critical acclaim. His other memorable films were – ‘Roti, Andaaz' and ‘Aan'.

His magnum opus Mother India' was released in 1957, which went on to be nominated for the Best Foreign Film at the Oscars. His films were often derived from a clash between pre-capitalist ruralism and increasingly commercial-industrial practices and values. Mehboob Khan remains one of the most influential post-50's cinema personalities.