Early Life and Background
Danny Denzongpa was born as Tshering Phintso Denzongpa on February 25, 1948, in Yuksom, Sikkim (then an independent kingdom). He hails from a Buddhist family and initially aspired to join the Indian Army. He even got selected for the National Defence Academy (NDA) but later changed his path to pursue a career in acting. He joined the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, where his classmates included Jaya Bachchan and Shatrughan Sinha.
Since his original name was difficult for people to pronounce, Jaya Bachchan suggested he adopt the name “Danny,” which he has used ever since.
Film Career
Danny made his Bollywood debut with the film “Zaroorat” (1971) but gained recognition with films like “Mere Apne” (1971) and “Dhund” (1973). His distinct baritone voice, strong screen presence, and ability to portray negative roles made him one of Bollywood’s most iconic villains.
Some of his most famous films include:
- Dharmatma (1975) – Bollywood’s first gangster film
- Kalicharan (1976) – A breakthrough villain role
- The Burning Train (1980)
- Kaatilon Ke Kaatil (1981)
- Ashanti (1982)
- Agneepath (1990) – As the villain Kancha Cheena, opposite Amitabh Bachchan
- Khuda Gawah (1992) – One of his most memorable performances
- Krantiveer (1994)
- Ghatak (1996)
- Indian (1996) – Played an intense negative role
- Pukar (2000)
- Enthiran (2010) – Played the scientist opposite Rajinikanth
He was often cast as a sophisticated and stylish villain, bringing a unique charm to negative roles. However, he also played strong positive roles in films like “Bulundi” (1981), “Khuda Gawah” (1992), and “16 December” (2002).
Apart from Bollywood, Danny has worked in Nepali, Tamil, Bengali, and Hollywood films.
Other Ventures
Danny is not just an actor but also a singer, director, and entrepreneur. He has sung for several Nepali and Hindi films. In 1982, he directed and starred in the critically acclaimed film “Phir Wahi Raat.”
He is also a successful businessman with interests in breweries, hospitality, and real estate in Sikkim and Mumbai.
Awards and Recognition
- Padma Shri (2003) – India’s fourth-highest civilian award
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor (1992) – For Khuda Gawah
- Several nominations and lifetime achievement awards for his contribution to Indian cinema
Personal Life
Danny is married to Gawa Denzongpa, and they have a son, Rinzing Denzongpa, who is an actor, and a daughter, Pema Denzongpa.
Legacy
With a career spanning over five decades, Danny Denzongpa is one of Bollywood’s most respected and legendary actors. He redefined villainous roles and remains an iconic figure in Indian cinema.
