By Tanveer Zaidi (Actor – Author – Educationist)
Did you know that the legendary actor Pran, known for his impeccable acting skills and strong moral compass, once refused to accept a prestigious Filmfare Award?
This remarkable decision was rooted in his deep sense of justice and admiration for genuine artistic talent.
The incident dates back to the early 1970s, a time when the Indian film industry was booming with talent and creativity.
Pran, who was selected to receive the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in the film Beimaan, declined the honour.
His reason? He believed that an enormous injustice had been done to music composer Ghulam Mohammad, whose exceptional work in the film Pakeezah had not been recognised by the award committee.
In a 2013 report published on www.bollywoodreporters.com, it was revealed that Pran was deeply disappointed with the Filmfare jury’s decision to overlook Ghulam Mohammad’s contribution to Indian cinema.
He felt that accepting the award in such circumstances would be unfair and would diminish the value of true artistry. In a rare and noble gesture, he turned down the award as a form of silent protest and solidarity with a fellow artist whose contributions, he felt, had been unjustly ignored.
Ghulam Mohammad’s musical score for Pakeezah is considered a timeless gem in the history of Indian cinema. The soundtrack of the film is widely celebrated for its elegance, complexity, and emotional depth.
It wasn’t just music; it was an immersive experience that transported listeners to an era of classical beauty and refined emotions.
Pakeezah‘s music reflected a profound understanding of Indian classical traditions. Ghulam Mohammad, a composer with a rich background in classical music, infused the soundtrack with soulful ragas like Kalyan and Pahadi.
His music offered a spiritual and emotional journey through melodies that echoed with pathos, romance, and longing. The use of traditional Indian instruments such as the sarangi, swarmandal, flute, and tabla added layers of richness to the soundscape, giving the songs a timeless and ethereal quality.
The vocals, particularly those rendered by the legendary Lata Mangeshkar, were nothing short of mesmerizing. Her voice, both delicate and commanding, brought the lyrics to life, allowing listeners to feel the soul of the characters, especially that of Sahibjaan, the film’s protagonist.
Her rendition of the songs conveyed vulnerability, strength, and deep emotion all at once.
The lyrics, penned by Kaifi Azmi, added yet another layer of brilliance. Poetic and imaginative, they seamlessly wove the listener into the fabric of the story.
The words created an atmosphere of fantasy and emotional resonance, mirroring the thoughts, struggles, and dreams of the characters. The songs were more than just entertainment—they were vital storytelling devices that elevated the entire cinematic experience.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Pakeezah’s music was how it managed to blend traditional Indian music forms—like Thumri, Ghazal, Qawwali, and Mujra—with subtle modern influences.
This fusion resulted in a distinctive sound that stood out even among the greatest musical compositions of its time. The arrangements were delicate yet powerful, enhancing the emotional weight of every scene.
Even decades later, the songs from Pakeezah continue to enjoy immense popularity. They remain in high demand at live concerts, music shows, and private gatherings, proving the enduring legacy of Ghulam Mohammad’s compositions.
The melodies of Pakeezah are not merely remembered—they are celebrated across generations.
Pran’s refusal to accept the Filmfare Award stands as a testament to his character. It highlights his deep respect for artistic integrity and his willingness to stand up for what he believed was right, even at the cost of his recognition.
It was a rare gesture of solidarity and reverence, reminding us that true legends are not only defined by their talent but also by their values.
In an industry driven by fame and accolades, Pran’s principled stand continues to inspire. His decision shined a spotlight on Ghulam Mohammad’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema and serves as a poignant reminder that real art must always be honoured, even if not by awards, then by the people who recognize its worth.
