From 1893 to 1900 he was ranked as the best athlete in India. He was a member of the 1900 British Olympic team in Paris. As an athlete, he won 120 awards and medals, including one for best physique.
Prior to his acting career, he was engaged in the jute trade in India.
In 1905, he settled in England.
He first went on the stage in 1907 and soon became one of England's more popular leading men.
On 25 November, 1917 he appeared with Bert Williams, John Barrymore, Grace La Rue, Harrison Rhodes and Burr McIntosh at the 39th Street Theater in New York, to call attention to the needs of the thousands of black soldiers serving in the war.