Full Name: Kulbhushan Kharbanda
Date of Birth: October 21, 1944
Place of Birth: Hasan Abdal, Punjab, British India (now in Pakistan)
Nationality: Indian
Occupation: Actor
Years Active: 1974 – Present
Spouse: Maheshwari Devi Kharbanda
Children: Shruti Kharbanda
Early Life & Education
Kulbhushan Kharbanda was born in pre-partition India in Punjab. After partition, his family moved to India. He was part of Delhi’s theater scene before moving into films.
Career Highlights
Kulbhushan Kharbanda started his acting career with theater and was part of the renowned theater group “Yatrik.” He later transitioned into films and became one of Bollywood’s most respected character actors.
Notable Films:
- Manthan (1976) – One of his early performances in parallel cinema
- Junoon (1978) – Played a crucial role in this historical drama
- Shaan (1980) – Gained immense popularity as the villain “Shakaal”
- Arth (1982) – Acclaimed role in this Mahesh Bhatt classic
- Kalyug (1981) – A modern adaptation of the Mahabharata
- Ghulami (1985) – A powerful performance in a socio-political drama
- Prem Rog (1982) – A critically acclaimed role
- Border (1997) – Played an Indian Army officer in this war film
- Lagaan (2001) – A significant role in the Oscar-nominated film
- Jodhaa Akbar (2008) – Played a key role in the historical epic
- Mirzapur (Web Series, 2018-2020) – Played “Bauji,” a mafia leader
Iconic Role – Shakaal in Shaan
Kulbhushan Kharbanda is best known for playing the iconic bald villain Shakaal in Ramesh Sippy’s Shaan (1980). His portrayal of the sophisticated yet menacing antagonist, inspired by James Bond villains, made him a memorable Bollywood villain.
Awards & Recognition
His performances in parallel cinema and commercial films have earned him a place among India’s finest character actors.
Personal Life
Kulbhushan Kharbanda has kept his personal life private. He is married to Maheshwari Devi Kharbanda and has a daughter, Shruti Kharbanda.
Legacy
With a career spanning over five decades, Kulbhushan Kharbanda is regarded as one of India’s most talented and versatile actors. From intense character roles to memorable villainous performances, he remains a legend in Indian cinema.
