Born on October 24, 1915, in Srinagar, Jeevan's real name was Omkar Nath Dhar. He belonged to a Kashmiri Pandit family. His mother died at the time of his birth, and his father passed away when he was around three years old. Despite these early hardships, he developed an interest in films and acting during childhood. However, working in films was not considered a respectable career choice in his family. The prospect of building a career in the film industry did not align with his family's traditional outlook.
Determined to become an actor, Jeevan eventually decided to leave home. At around 18 years of age, he travelled to Mumbai, then known as Bombay, with only Rs 26 in his pocket. After arriving in the city, he faced the immediate challenge of supporting himself while finding a way into the film industry.
He secured a job at a studio, where his work involved sticking silver paper onto reflectors. Although the job was modest, it allowed him to observe the filmmaking process from close quarters and brought him closer to the world he wanted to enter.
The studio was reportedly associated with director Mohanlal Sinha. Jeevan's interest in acting became apparent while he was working there, eventually opening the door to an acting opportunity. His early film was titled 'Fashionable India'. The opportunity gave him a pathway to pursue acting and move forward in the film industry.
Over the course of his career, Jeevan portrayed a variety of characters, but his performance as Narad Muni in mythological films became one of his most distinctive identities. He played the character in approximately 49 to 60 films. His portrayal in the 1950 film 'Har Har Mahadev' remains particularly memorable. The role helped establish his popularity among audiences who watched religious and mythological films.
Jeevan later became known for his villainous roles in Hindi cinema. His dialogue delivery, facial expressions and distinctive approach to portraying characters helped him stand apart from other actors. His performances in films such as 'Johnny Mera Naam', 'Amar Akbar Anthony' and 'Dharam Veer' are remembered among his notable screen appearances.
Working in films across several decades, Jeevan maintained his place in the industry by taking on varied roles. From his early days doing a modest job at a studio to becoming a familiar face in villainous and mythological characters, his career reflected a journey shaped by determination and opportunities that emerged along the way.
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