Amjad Khan was a prominent Bollywood actor and film director, celebrated for his iconic portrayal of Gabbar Singh in the 1975 film Sholay.
Born into a family of actors, Khan began his acting career at a young age, appearing alongside his father Jayant in films such as Nazneen (1951) and Ab Dilli Dur Nahin (1957).
Khan's breakthrough role came with the 1973 film Hindustan Ki Kasam, marking his debut as a professional actor. However, it was his performance as Gabbar Singh in Sholay that catapulted him to fame, transforming the traditional Bollywood villain into a genre-defining icon.
In preparation for the role, Khan immersed himself in the character, making Gabbar Singh a memorable and enduring figure in Indian cinema.
Throughout his career, Khan appeared in numerous films, including Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978),Shatranj Ke Khilari (1977),Hum Kisise Kum Naheen (1977),Ganga Ki Saugand (1978),Des Pardes (1978),Dada (1979),Chambal Ki Kassam (1980),Naseeb (1981),Satte Pe Satta (1982),and Nastik (1983).
Khan also showcased his versatility by taking on dramatic, comedic, and even romantic roles in films such as Yaarana (1981),Laawaris (1981),Qurbani (1980),Love Story (1981),Chameli Ki Shaadi (1986),and Ramgarh Ke Sholay (1991).
In addition to his acting career, Khan ventured into direction with the 1983 film Chor Police, in which he co-starred with Parveen Babi, Shatrughan Sinha, Kader Khan, and Shakti Kapoor. His directorial debut was followed by the successful film Ameer Aadmi Ghareeb Aadmi (1985).
Khan's performances earned him numerous awards, including the best supporting actor awards at the BFJA Awards for Sholay (1976),Filmfare Awards for Dada (1980),and Yaarana (1982),as well as the best performance in a comedic role at the Filmfare Awards for Maa Kasam (1986).
