Birth Date:17 June 1949
About Me
Raj Kiran: The Enigmatic Star of 80s Bollywood
Raj Kiran Mahtani, an Indian actor prominent in Bollywood during the 1970s and 1980s, is remembered for his versatile roles and a mysterious disappearance that has captivated fans and the film industry for decades. His career, though relatively short, was marked by memorable performances that showcased his talent as both a leading man and a reliable character actor.
Biography: A Promising Start and a Disappearance
Born on June 17, 1949, in Mumbai, Raj Kiran embarked on his acting journey with his debut film, Kaagaz Ki Nao (1975), opposite Sarika. His charm and good looks quickly made him a sought-after actor, and he went on to star in over 100 films. He was particularly praised for his work in Mahesh Bhatt's critically acclaimed film Arth (1982) and Subhash Ghai's blockbuster Karz (1980), where he played the pivotal role of Ravi Verma.
However, after a series of personal and professional setbacks, Raj Kiran's career began to decline in the 1990s. He was reported to have suffered from depression and was admitted to a mental health facility in Mumbai. He then reportedly moved to the United States. His family lost contact with him, and he has been missing since.
In 2011, there were reports from his Karz co-star, the late Rishi Kapoor, who claimed to have found Raj Kiran in a mental institution in Atlanta, Georgia, working to pay for his treatment. However, this claim was publicly refuted by Raj Kiran's daughter, Rishika Mahtani, who stated that her father was still missing and that the family had been actively searching for him with the help of private detectives and the New York police. The conflicting reports have only deepened the mystery surrounding his whereabouts.
Filmography: A Legacy of Memorable Roles
Raj Kiran's acting style was characterized by a natural, understated charm that made him popular with audiences. He often played the romantic hero but also demonstrated his range in more complex and negative roles.
Selected Filmography:
- Karz (1980): His role as the reincarnated soul seeking revenge.
- Baseraa (1981): A drama where he held his own against a stellar cast.
- Arth (1982): A powerful performance in this critically acclaimed film.
- Hip Hip Hurray (1984): A film about football that became a cult classic.
- Ghar Ho To Aisa (1990): A family drama where he played the supportive son.
Despite the tragic circumstances of his disappearance, Raj Kiran's work continues to be celebrated by fans of classic Bollywood cinema. His on-screen presence and memorable performances have ensured that he remains a cherished part of Indian film history.
