Who Is Guru Dutt? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on July 9, 1925, Guru Dutt was a pioneering Indian film director, producer, choreographer, and actor. Renowned for his work in Hindi cinema, Dutt's films often dealt with themes of love, despair, and human emotions, making him a significant figure in the industry. Despite his untimely passing in 1964, his legacy continues to influence filmmakers and cinema lovers worldwide. As of 2025, Guru Dutt would have been 100 years old, a milestone that highlights his lasting impact on Indian cinema.
| Occupation | Choreographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 9, 1925 |
| Age | 39 Years |
| Birth Place | Padukone, Madras Presidency, British India (present-day Karnataka, India) |
| Horoscope | Cancer |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 10 October, 1964 |
| Died Place | Bombay, Maharashtra, India (present-day Mumbai) |
Popularity
Guru Dutt's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While precise measurements are less documented, Guru Dutt was known for his charismatic screen presence. It is believed that he had a height of around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm). Regarding weight, it varied throughout his life as he played characters with different physical requirements, but at his peak, he likely weighed around 70 kg (154 lbs).
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Guru Dutt was married to the actress Geeta Roy, who later became known as Geeta Dutt. Their relationship was at times tumultuous, reflecting the nature of many creative partnerships. The couple had three children, including a son named Arun Dutt and two daughters named Niharika Dutt and Sanchita Dutt. Throughout his life, Dutt faced several struggles, including challenges in his personal relationships and mental health.
His name was changed to Gurudatta Padukone following a childhood accident, the belief being that it was an auspicious choice. His father, Shivashanker Rao Padukone, was a headmaster and a banker; his mother was Vasanthi, a teacher and writer. Both parents were originally settled in Karwar but relocated. Dutt spent his early childhood in Bhowanipore, Kolkata, and spoke fluent Bengali.
Net Worth and Salary
Estimating the net worth of Guru Dutt in 2025 is speculative, given that he passed away in 1964. However, his films, such as "Pyaasa," "Kagaz Ke Phool," and "Kaagaz Ke Phool," have garnered immense critical and commercial success, leading to increased value in his estate and legacy. Today, his estate is worth millions, and every film still generates revenue, reflecting a timeless investment in the cultural fabric of India.
Career, Business and Investments
Guru Dutt's career as a filmmaker was marked by innovation and artistic expression. He directed several classics and played significant roles that showcased his talent. His films often featured poignant storytelling and complex characters, making them stand out in Indian cinema. Posthumously, Dutt's films continue to resonate, contributing to his enduring relevance in the industry.
In addition to film direction, Dutt had business ventures in film production, which can be viewed as investments in the growing Indian cinema landscape. His production company, Guru Dutt Films, remains influential and continues to produce films that embody his vision.
Beginning in 1942, he studied at Uday Shankar's School of Dancing and Choreography in Almora, but was taken out in 1944 after getting involved with the company's leading lady. From there, gaining employment at a telephone operator at a Lever Brothers factory in Calcutta (now Kolkata), Dutt wired home to say he had got the job. However, soon after, he was disenchanted by the job and left it.
Social Network
Given that Guru Dutt was active in the mid-20th century, formal social media was nonexistent during his lifetime. However, in 2025, his legacy is well-circulated on various platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Fans and filmmakers pay tribute to him through dedicated pages, celebrating his contributions and discussing his films. Numerous film festivals honor his work, leading to an ever-growing audience appreciating his films.
A postage stamp featuring Dutt was released by India Post on 11 October 2004. On 10 October 2011, a Doordarshan documentary on Dutt aired. In 2021, author Yasser Usman published a biographical book about him, titled Guru Dutt: An Unfinished Story.
Education
Guru Dutt's education began at a young age, primarily in Bombay (now Mumbai). He attended St. Xavier’s College for a brief period but left to pursue a career in acting and filmmaking. Although he did not have formal training in film direction, his observational skills and dedication to storytelling allowed him to pave his path in the film industry.
