New Delhi: Actor Praveen Kumar Sobti, who played the role of Bheem in BR Chopra’s mythological show Mahabharat, passed away at the age of 74. He played the role of goon and bodyguard in many Bollywood movies. The 6 feet 6 inches tall actor and sportsperson hailed from Punjab. Before foraying into the acting profession, Praveen was a hammer and discus throw athlete.
He is a four-time Asian Games medalist (2 gold, 1 silver and 1 bronze) and has also represented India in two Olympic Games (1968 Mexico Games and 1972 Munich Games). He is also an Arjuna Awardee. Due to sports, Praveen got the job of Deputy Commandant in the Border Security Force (BSF). After making a successful career in track and field sports, Praveen started his career in showbiz in the late 70s.
His most memorable appearance in Bollywood was as Mukhtar Singh in Amitabh Bachchan’s Shahenshah. Praveen’s filmography includes titles such as Karishma Kudrat Ka, Yudh, Zbardast, Singhasan, Khudgarj, Loha, Mohabbat Ke Dushman, Ella and others. In the late 80s he signed on to play the role of Bheem in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, which immortalized him in the eyes of the audience.
Like other actors, Praveen became synonymous with the character he played in the popular mythological show. In 2013 Praveen tried to make a career in politics and contested the assembly elections from Delhi’s Wazirpur constituency on an Aam Aadmi Party ticket, but lost. After this defeat, he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. Praveen had expressed displeasure over not getting pension from the Punjab government in 2021.