Hero in 720 films, Paired with 85 heroines, this actor beat Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan in…, name was…
GH News July 12, 2025 02:06 AM

When we discuss about Indias most successful actors names like Rajesh Khanna Amitabh Bachchan Shah Rukh Khan Dilip Kumar come to our mind. These stars have acted in some of the biggest films and delivered many blockbusters that any actor can dream of. However there is one man who has given more hits than all of them combined.
This actor gave more hits than Rajesh Khanna Amitabh Bachchan Shah Rukh Khan
He is none other than Malayalam screen idol Prem Nazir who ruled Malayalam cinema for three decades. The veteran star whose career spanned from 1951-89 worked as a leading star in 720 films throughout his career appearing in over 30 films twice a year. Industry insiders and trade analysts estimated that Nazir delivered at least 700 hits as a lead hero out of which 50 were blockbusters.
In comparison to other star figures Amitabh Bachchan undoubtedly Indian cinemas biggest name has less than 60 hits as lead actor. South superstar Rajinikanth has a record of over 80 hits and more than a dozen blockbusters. The three Khans who trail way behind with Salman Khan on top (39 hits and 15 blockbusters) Shah Rukh Khan (34 hits and 10 blockbusters) and Aamir Khan (20 hits and 6 blockbusters).
Who was Prem Nazir?
Born Abdul Khader in Travancore in 1929 Prem Nazir began his acting journey with film Marumakal in 1952. It was then he garnered success after his second film Visappinte Vili. He became a heartthrob and carved a special place in audiences hearts with his acting. In 1950 he moved to films with hard-hitting subjects transforming him into a superstar.
Eventually he was nicknamed as Nithyaharitha Nayakan (Evergreen Hero) by fans and media. In late 90s he started doing more supporting roles and played second leads in films like Jayan Sukumaran Shankar and Soman. However the upcoming stars like Mammootty and Mohanlal overtook his position appealing fresh wave of audiences with their talent.
In 1989 Prem Nazir was infected with measles and passed away at 59. His last on-screen appearance was in Priyadarshans film Kadathanadan Ambadi.