Early Life and Background
Chunky Pandey (real name Suyash Pandey) was born on September 26, 1962, in Mumbai, India. He grew up in a well-to-do family and pursued his education at Dinanath Mangeshkar College in Mumbai. His early interest in acting led him to join Daisy Irani’s acting school, where he trained before entering Bollywood.
Film Career
Chunky Pandey made his Bollywood debut in “Aag Hi Aag” (1987), which was a commercial success. He gained further recognition with “Tezaab” (1988), where he played the role of Anil Kapoor’s friend Babban.
During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Chunky was known for his comic timing and supporting roles in successful films like:
- Paap Ki Duniya (1988)
- Khatron Ke Khiladi (1988)
- Ghar Ka Chiraag (1989)
- Aankhen (1993) (One of the highest-grossing films of that year)
- Lootere (1993)
Despite initial success, his career declined in the mid-1990s as Bollywood leaned towards new-generation actors. He then ventured into Bangladeshi cinema, where he became a superstar with several successful films.
Comeback and Reinvention
Chunky Pandey made a strong comeback in Bollywood in the 2000s, reinventing himself with comic and character roles. Some of his notable performances in this phase include:
- Qayamat: City Under Threat (2003)
- Apna Sapna Money Money (2006)
- Housefull series (2010–2019) (as the hilarious Aakhri Pasta)
- Begum Jaan (2017) (playing a villainous role)
- Saaho (2019)
Other Ventures
Apart from acting, Chunky is a successful businessman. He co-founded The Elbo Room, a popular restaurant in Mumbai, and is actively involved in event management.
Personal Life
Chunky Pandey is married to Bhavana Pandey, a fashion designer and entrepreneur. The couple has two daughters:
- Ananya Pandey – A Bollywood actress known for films like “Student of the Year 2” and “Gehraiyaan.”
- Rysa Pandey – Aspiring musician.
Legacy and Influence
Chunky Pandey remains a beloved figure in Bollywood, known for his comic roles and versatility. With over 100 films to his credit, he continues to entertain audiences across generations.
