Binod Pradhan

Binod Pradhan Biography

Binod Pradhan is a noted cinematographer of Nepali origin. He is best known for the works of 1942 A Love Story, Devdas, Rang De Basanti, Parinda, Mission Kashmir, Jaane bhi do yaarom, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman and Munna Bhai M.B.B.S and all these movies have been critical and commercial successes. 2 States, Bhag Mika Bhag and Mausam are his most recent works. Delhi-6, Nanhe Jaisalmer, Kareeb, Kismat connection, Khamosh (1986), Narasimha and Ta Ra Rum Pum are other noted works. He is known for the association with Vidhu Vinod Chopra, with whom he has worked for the movies, Parinda, 1942- A love story, Mission Kashmir, Munna Bhai MBBS and Kareeb.

He was born in hill town of Kalimpong in Darjeeling, where he spent his childhood. He was born in a humble middle class family. His father, H. K. Pradhan owned a photo studio. His first box camera was gifted by his father. He started off with Black and White pictures and used to colour them with water paints. His hidden talent was recognized by his father who gifted him with an Asahi Pentax. His photos were also displayed at the studio. Later he joined FTII Pune, where he completed three year course on cinematography.

At first he worked under film director Prem Sagar as an assistant at Sagar Arts in the 1970s and has worked on movies like Charas and Ram Bharose. Later he joined as the assistant of cameraman A. K. Bir, and also did a few documentaries and short films. In between he had to elope with his love Dolly and was out of work for a short period when he was completely involved with family and new born kid. But later his old friends gave him film offers and he was back to track again. The cult classic, Jaane Bhi do yaarom, debut movie of director Kundan Shah proved to be the breakthrough movie of his career. He won Filmfare award twice for the movies – Devdas and Rang de basanti and nomination for Mission Kashmir.

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Updated: April 28, 2014