The story of Om Puri the renowned actor who made his mark in both Bollywood and Hollywood is inspiring. His acting skills remain alive in peoples hearts. The heights he achieved in the acting world are every artists dream. His life was filled with struggles but he never gave up. Born into a family where financial hardship was common he spent his childhood in poverty. At the age of six he washed dishes at a tea stall to help support his family. Early Life and Struggles Om Puri was born on October 18 1950 in the Patiala district of Punjab. His family didnt know his exact birthday. When asked his mother would say he was born on Dussehra. So Om Puri decided on October 18 Dussehra as his birth date. He chose this date himself and began celebrating his birthday on that day. The first few years of his life were filled with hardship. His father was once jailed for theft which further worsened the familys financial situation. During this difficult time Om Puri at the age of six began working as a dishwasher at a tea stall to help support his family. Journey Toward Acting In addition to this dishwashing job Om Puri took on various odd jobs to support his family. He had a deep love for trains and sometimes even slept on them at night. Growing up he aspired to be a train driver but fate led him to the world of acting. To fulfill his dream he enrolled at the National School of Drama where he solidified his acting skills. Om Puri won hearts not only in India but internationally with his acting. Breakthrough in Cinema Om Puri began his film career with the Marathi film Ghasiram Kotwal. He then made his big name in Hindi cinema with the 1980 film Aakrosh considered a revolutionary film. His performance in this film was highly praised and he even won the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor. He subsequently starred in many memorable films including Aarohan Ardh Satya Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron Chachi 420 Hera Pheri and Malamaal Weekly. He left his mark in a variety of roles whether serious or comedic. Global Recognition Om Puri also made a name for himself in Hollywood. He starred in films like City of Joy Wolf and The Ghost and the Darkness taking his acting magic to foreign countries. His versatility and dedication endeared him to every audience. The hallmark of his acting was his ability to bring life to his characters whether small or large. Personal Life and Legacy His personal life faced many ups and downs but he always impressed everyone with his work. Om Puri married twice first to Seema Kapoor and later to journalist Nandita Puri. Some details of his life became public including some controversies but his work transcended all controversy. His acting earned him numerous national and international awards a testament to his hard work and talent. Om Puri was not only a prolific actor but also an inspiration to many. He taught acting to many young actors and showed them the right path. He passed away on January 6 2017 from a heart attack at the age of 66. His acting career and his memories remain with the people.