
Jagdish Sethi
ActingAbout Jagdish Sethi
Jagdish Sethi (15 January 1903 – 12 June 1969) was an Indian actor and film director born in Punjab, India, whose prolific career spanned nearly four decades and included over 80 appearances in Hindi and regional cinema. He is best remembered for his character‑driven performances in key early sound‑era films such as Draupadi (1931), where he portrayed Duryodhana in one of India's first mythological talkies, Anath Ashram (1937), and Insaan (1952), a socially conscious drama which he also directed. Jagdish Sethi directed several films including Do Dil (1947), Insaan (1952), and Jaggu (1952), and contributed as a screenwriter, lyricist, and producer in industry collaborations with major studios such as New Theatres, Imperial, and Filmistan. Recognized for his versatility in both performance and filmmaking, he remained one of the notable figures of early Indian cinema until his passing in Bombay on 12 June 1969.
Jagdish Sethi Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Jagdish Sethi reflects exceptional commercial consistency. Across 28 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Jagdish Sethi's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 96% of Jagdish Sethi's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Nartaki, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Jagdish Sethi Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Jagdish Sethi's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Jagdish Sethi has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1966 | Mera Saaya | Judge | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1962 | Baat Ek Raat Ki | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1960 | Chaudhary Karnail Singh | Chaudhary Karnail Singh | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1958 | Phir Subha Hogi | Harbanslal | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1958 | Sitaron Se Aage | Shyamlal | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1957 | Miss Mary | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1954 | Aar Paar | Lalaji | Average | Similar → |
| 1954 | Waris | Rana Himmat Singh | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1952 | Do Raha | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1952 | Nau Bahar | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1950 | Pardes | Lala Mangaldas / Manglu | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1945 | Amrapali | Mahamantra | Hit | Similar → |
| 1945 | Chand Tara | Ratan's Father | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1945 | Village Girl | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1944 | Chal Chal Re Naujawan | Thakur Jaipal Singh | Hit | Similar → |
| 1944 | Bhagya Laxmi | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1944 | Kadambari | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1942 | Tamanna | Arabind | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1942 | Station Master | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1940 | Nartaki | Seth Hiralal | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1939 | As You Please | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1938 | Street Singer | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1937 | Anath Ashram | Jai Narain | Hit | Similar → |
| 1937 | President | Dr Shethy | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1934 | Anokha Prem | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1931 | Draupadi | Duryodhana | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1931 | Alam Ara | - | Hit | Similar → |
| 1930 | The Arabian Knight | - | Super Hit | Similar → |
Jagdish Sethi - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Jagdish Sethi?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Jagdish Sethi is "Nartaki" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Jagdish Sethi acted in?
Jagdish Sethi has been featured in at least 28 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Jagdish Sethi?
Other notable films include "Chand Tara", "As You Please", and "Anokha Prem".



