Kader Khan – Biography
Early Life & Background
Kader Khan was born on October 22, 1937, in Kabul, Afghanistan, into a Pashtun family. His family later moved to Mumbai, India, where he grew up in difficult circumstances. Despite financial struggles, he excelled in academics and earned a degree in Civil Engineering from Ismail Yusuf College, Mumbai. Before entering films, he worked as a professor of civil engineering.
Entry into Bollywood
Kader Khan was discovered by actor Dilip Kumar, who saw his talent in theatre and encouraged him to join films. He made his debut as a writer for Jawani Diwani (1972) and later as an actor in Daag (1973). His ability to write powerful dialogues, screenplays, and act in comic as well as villainous roles made him one of Bollywood’s most versatile talents.
Career Highlights
- As a Writer (1970s – 1980s)
- Wrote dialogues for over 300 films, including classics like:
- Roti (1974)
- Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
- Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978)
- Sharaabi (1984)
- Coolie (1983)
- Wrote dialogues for over 300 films, including classics like:
- As an Actor (1980s – 2000s)
- Played villainous, comic, and supporting roles in over 400 films:
- Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri (1990)
- Himmatwala (1983)
- Aankhen (1993)
- Dulhe Raja (1998)
- Hera Pheri (2000)
- Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004)
- Played villainous, comic, and supporting roles in over 400 films:
- Comedy Legacy (1990s)
- Became famous for his comic roles, especially alongside Govinda and Shakti Kapoor, in films like:
- Coolie No. 1 (1995)
- Saajan Chale Sasural (1996)
- Judwaa (1997)
- Became famous for his comic roles, especially alongside Govinda and Shakti Kapoor, in films like:
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Award for Best Comedian (Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri, 1991)
- Padma Shri (Posthumously in 2019) for his contribution to Indian cinema
Personal Life & Death
Kader Khan was married and had three sons. He moved to Canada in his later years. He suffered from progressive supranuclear palsy, a degenerative disease, and passed away on December 31, 2018, at the age of 81.
Legacy
Kader Khan remains one of Bollywood’s most legendary actors, writers, and comedians, known for his wit, humor, and unforgettable dialogues.
