Kader Khan was an Indian actor, comedian, and screenwriter who made a lasting impact on Hindi cinema. Born into a family that migrated from Afghanistan to Mumbai in 1942, Khan grew up in the Kamathipura neighbourhood, where he was raised with a strong sense of determination and passion.
Khan's educational background was marked by a Master's degree in Civil Engineering from Ismail Yusuf College in Mumbai. However, his true calling lay in the world of writing and acting, and he eventually pursued a career in the film industry.
Khan began his journey in the film industry as a writer, making his debut with the film Jawani Diwani in 1972. He soon transitioned to acting, making his debut in the 1973 film Daag: A Poem of Love alongside Rajesh Khanna.
Throughout his illustrious career, Khan wrote dialogues for numerous successful films in the 1970s and 1980s, including Sholay, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Amar Akbar Anthony, Naseeb, and Coolie. He also acted in over 300 films, often in supporting roles, and appeared in some of Bollywood's biggest hits, such as Sharaabi, Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri, Agneepath, Hum, and Khuda Gawah.
Khan's notable performances as an actor include Main Khiladi Tu Anari, Coolie No. 1, Taqdeerwala, and Judwaa. He also worked in television serials, including Hasna Mat and Khuda Gawah.
As a prolific screenwriter, Khan wrote scripts for films like Dharam Veer, Mr. Natwarlal, Laawaris, and Geraftaar. He also wrote and produced the film Shama, which was released in 1981.
Khan's impeccable comic timing made him a household name in comedies, and he worked with some of the biggest stars in the industry, including Amitabh Bachchan, Govinda, Salman Khan, and Akshay Kumar.
Khan's last appearance was in the 2019 film Rangeela Raja, and he passed away on December 31, 2018, at the age of 81. Despite his passing, Khan's legacy continues to be celebrated, and he was posthumously awarded the Padma Shri award, one of India's highest civilian honours, in 2019.
Throughout his career, Khan won numerous awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Dialogue twice for Meri Aawaz Suno and Angaar, and the Filmfare Award for Best Comedian for Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri.
