Meet Anna Salunke First actor to master dual character in a film

In the distant past before VFX or green screens came into existence, one actor managed to master dual character.

Many may wonder who is this first actor in Indian cinema to do it. Well, it’s none other than Anna Salunke and the 1917 released film was the directorial of the father of Indian cinema Dadasaheb Phalke and it was “Lanka Dahan”
based on the epic Ramayana and also had a scene where Hanuman sets Lanka on fire. Anna Salunke played not one but both Lord Ram and Goddess Sita. Yes, he portrayed both a male and a female character in the same film.

At that era, women were not allowed to act in films as it was considered socially improper. So, male actors had to step in to play female characters too.

Anna’s graceful mannerisms made him to play the role of Sita, while his expressive eyes helped him to portray Ram’s calm strength.

Interestingly, this wasn’t Anna’s first time playing a woman on screen. Earlier, he had portrayed Queen Taramati in
Raja Harishchandra released in 1913 India’s very first full-length feature film.

By the time Lanka Dahan was made, Anna had developed a more muscular physique and audiences couldn’t help but notice his strong arms even while he played Sita!

Regardless that, his performance and Phalke’s clever trick photography left viewers amazed. His ability to portray two such contrasting roles resonated with many.
The film turned out to be a collosal hit at the box-office. Notably crowds lined up outside theatres and the ticket collections proved its versatility.

Prior to catapulting to name and fame,.Before rising to fame, Anna Salunke was just a cook at a small restaurant in Mumbai. Phalke spotted him there, and offered him a role for Rs 15 a month.

News Edit KV Raman