Birth Date:12 November 1940
About Me
Amjad Khan: The Man Who Redefined the Bollywood Villain!
Amjad Khan remains one of the most iconic figures in the history of Indian cinema. While his name is forever etched in pop culture as the ruthless dacoit Gabbar Singh, his career spanned over two decades and included more than 130 films where he displayed incredible range as a villain, a comedian, and a character actor.
Biography: Early Life and Education
Born on November 12, 1940, in Peshawar (then British India), Amjad Zakaria Khan was destined for the arts.
Family Legacy: He was the son of legendary character actor Jayant (Zakaria Khan). His brothers, Imtiaz Khan and Inayat Khan, also pursued acting careers.
Academic Excellence: Amjad was highly educated, attending St. Andrew's High School in Bandra and later R. D. National College, where he served as the General Secretary of the student body. He held a Master’s degree in Philosophy and another in Persian Literature from Bombay University, often quoting poets like Keats and Wordsworth in conversation.
Theater Beginnings: Before his adult film debut, he was a prolific theater artist, honing his commanding voice and stage presence.
The Filmography: From Gabbar Singh to Wajid Ali Shah
Amjad Khan's filmography is a masterclass in versatility, shifting from terrifying antagonists to heartwarming friends.
1. The Definitive Breakthrough: Sholay (1975)
Amjad Khan became an overnight sensation with his portrayal of Gabbar Singh in Sholay. To prepare for the role, he reportedly read Abhishapt Chambal, a book on dacoits of the Chambal Valley. His dialogues, such as "Kitne aadmi the?", became part of the Indian lexicon, and he became the first villain to endorse a popular commercial product (Parle-G biscuits) as his character.
2. Iconic Negative and Supporting Roles
Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Amjad was the preferred antagonist for many blockbusters, often facing off against Amitabh Bachchan:
Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978): Played the spiteful Dilawar.
Shatranj Ke Khiladi (1977): In this Satyajit Ray classic, he delivered a nuanced performance as the noble yet helpless Nawab Wajid Ali Shah.
Satte Pe Satta (1982): Played the dual role of the murderous guardian and his henchman.
3. Comedic and Positive Turns
Defying typecasting, Amjad excelled in lighter roles:
Yaarana (1981): Played Bishan, the loyal best friend of Amitabh Bachchan’s character.
Qurbani (1980): Delivered a hilarious performance as the flamboyant, gum-chewing Inspector Amjad Khan.
Maa Kasam (1985): Won the Filmfare Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role.
Directorial Ventures and Leadership
Amjad Khan was not just an actor but a leader within the industry. He served as the President of the Actors Guild Association, where he frequently negotiated disputes between actors and producers.
He also stepped behind the camera to direct:
Chor Police (1983): His directorial debut, which was a box-office success.
Ameer Aadmi Gareeb Aadmi (1985): His second directorial project.
Awards and Recognition
Amjad Khan's talent was recognized with several of the industry's highest honors:
Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor: Dada (1980)
Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor: Yaarana (1982)
Filmfare Award for Best Comic Role: Maa Kasam (1986)
BFJA Awards: Best Supporting Actor for Sholay (1976).
Personal Life and Legacy
Amjad married Shehla Khan in 1972. They had three children: sons Shadaab Khan (who also became an actor) and Seemab Khan, and a daughter, Ahlam Khan. Despite suffering from health complications following a severe car accident in 1976, he continued to work until his passing on July 27, 1992. His legacy lives on through his children and the timeless characters that continue to be mimicked and admired today.
Amjad Khan's films' availability: You can watch Amjad Khan's films on B4U Movies Channels of India, UK, USA, Canada, and UAE. You can check country-specific schedule pages here.
- B4U Movies India
- B4U Kadak India
- B4U Movies UK
- B4U Movies USA
- B4U Movies Canada
- B4U Plus UAE
