Jahor Roy

Jahar Roy (19 September 1919 – 1 August 1977) was an Indian actor and comedian in Bengali cinema. He was known for his comedy films with Bhanu Bandyopadhyay.

Early life

Roy came from a Bengali Baidya family having its root in Mahilara, Barisal District (of the present Bangladesh). His father Satya Roy was also an actor and later moved to Patna, in search of livelihood. It is here where Jahar Roy completed his studies and started working on odd jobs such as proof reader, medical representative and finally a tailor. He left all these and came to Calcutta around 1946.

Movie career

Roy earned a substantial fan following even though he was a character actor. And all thanks to his roly-poly build, he was a frequent choice of directors who wanted to add comedy to serious movies. Roy's first major film roles were in Purbarag directed by Ardhendu Mukherjee, and in Anjangarh (1948) directed by Bimal Roy. Among his countless performances are Dhanyee Meye, Chadmabeshi and Bhanu Goenda Jahar Assistant. He acted in a couple of films under the direction of Satyajit Ray. Although a small role, Roy portrayed the male servant of Tulsi Chakrabarti in Parash Pathar. There was a meatier role in Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne where he played the role of a crooked warmongering minister of an innocent and peace-loving king. He also performed the song Cho Cho Kya Sharam Ki Baat in Chhadmabeshi. At the end of his career, when he was ailing, he did a cameo in Ritwik Ghatak's autobiographical film Jukti Takko Aar Gappo. He acted in around 350 films.

Theatre and comedy

Jahor Roy was renowned for his significant contributions to Bengali theatre. Over a career spanning two decades, he showcased his acting prowess in numerous plays. A lifelong associate of Rang Mahal theatre in Kolkata, his performances in plays such as Adarsha Hindu Hotel, Ulka, Subarnagolak, and Anartha are still celebrated.

Known for his wit and adeptness in physical comedy, Jahor Roy also composed several skits, including Nyapasur Badh, Function theke shashan, and many others. Unfortunately, most of these compositions are no longer available.

Selected filmography

External links

• atIMDb