Anupam Kher, a name hardly unfamiliar to anyone in our country, never emerged as a hero in films. He graced the screen as a villain in only a few movies, yet carved a significant niche for himself in Bollywood. Anupam never allowed himself to be confined by any single image; he portrayed sensitive characters, embraced villainy, and excelled in comedy.
Regardless of the role he undertook, Anupam Kher delivered impeccable performances, showcasing his versatility. His extensive repertoire spans over 500 Bollywood films alone, demonstrating his prowess not only in the Indian film industry but also in Hollywood. Beyond cinema, he has left an indelible mark on television and theatre.
Anupam Kher journey began in Shimla on 7th March 1955, born to Pushkar Nath Kher, a Kashmiri Brahmin employed as a clerk in the Forest Department, and Dulari Kher, a homemaker. His brother Raju Kher has also made appearances in TV shows and films.
Educationally, Anupam’s path meandered from DAV School in Shimla to Himachal Pradesh University for graduation. However, he abandoned his degree midway to pursue Indian Theater Studies at Punjab University, Chandigarh. It was here that his foray into theatre began, culminating in a gold medal from Panjab University for his remarkable performances.
Subsequently, Anupam pursued post-graduation in acting from NSD (National School of Drama) in Delhi. Following this, he spent about a year and a half as an acting teacher at the Bhartendu Natya Academy in Lucknow. In 1981, he ventured to Mumbai, braving a grueling struggle that often found him sleeping on empty stomachs on the city’s footpaths.
After nearly a year of perseverance, Anupam secured his first role in Muzaffar Ali’s 1982 film “Aagaan.” However, it was his portrayal in “Saaransh” (1984) that catapulted him to fame, essaying the role of a grieving father with unparalleled depth. Remarkably, despite playing a sixty-year-old character at the age of 28, Anupam Kher’s performance resonated profoundly with audiences.
The journey to “Saaransh” was not without its hurdles; initially, producers favored Sanjeev Kumar for the lead role, but Mahesh Bhatt’s steadfast belief in Anupam ultimately prevailed, leading to a watershed moment in his career.
Anupam Kher’s filmography boasts an array of iconic titles spanning genres and generations, from “Karma” to “The Accidental Prime Minister,” each showcasing his remarkable talent and versatility. He has also left an indelible mark on television, hosting shows like “Say Na Something to Anupam Uncle” and “The Anupam Kher Show,” and has made notable appearances in Hollywood productions.
Beyond acting, Anupam has dabbled in directing and producing films, notably “Om Jai Jagdish” and “Maine Gandhi Ko Nahi Mara.” His personal life intertwines with the industry as well, being married to Kirron Kher since 1985 and raising her son, Sikandar Kher, from a previous marriage as his own.
Anupam Kher’s accolades include multiple Filmfare Awards and National Awards, alongside the prestigious Padma Shri in 2004 and Padma Bhushan in 2016, bestowed upon him by the Government of India.
As Anupam Kher celebrates his sixtieth year, his enduring presence in the entertainment industry serves as a testament to his talent, dedication, and resilience. May he continue to captivate audiences for years to come, inspiring generations with his craft and charisma.