Those unfamiliar with Marathi cinema will remember him as the ever-smiling Dr Kulkarni in Rajesh Khanna’s Anand (1971), or for his grey role in Gulzar’s Mere Apne (1971). While Ramesh Deo gained prominence in Hindi cinema for his fine performances in supporting roles, the actor-producer was a force to reckon with in Marathi theatre and cinema. A cameo in the Marathi film, Paatlaachi Por (1951), marked the beginning of a seven-decade career. He followed it up with Andhala Magto Ek Dola (1955) and many other notable Marathi films, before foraying into Bollywood with Rajshri Productions’ Aarti (1962).

That sowed the seeds of what was to be a long run in Bollywood as he became a regular fixture in Hindi films, essaying different roles — from the hero’s trusted friend to an exploitative villain — with equal ease. He featured in several landmark films, including Anand, Khilona (1970), Jeevan Mrityu (1970), Aap Ki Kasam (1974) and Ghayal (1990). In the ’80s, the veteran actor turned filmmaker, and went on to direct Marathi movies, including Chor Chor (1992) and Jeeva Sakha (1992).