Kulbhushan Kharbanda facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Kulbhushan Kharbanda
Kulbhushan Kharbanda in 2012
Born	(1944-10-21) 21 October 1944 (age 80) Hasan Abdal, Punjab, British India
Nationality	Indian
Alma mater	Kirori Mal College, Delhi University, Aligarh Muslim University
Occupation	Actor
Years active	1970–present

Kulbhushan Kharbanda (born 21 October 1944) is a well-known Indian actor. He has starred in many Hindi and Punjabi films, as well as TV shows and web series. He is especially famous for playing the villain Shakaal in the 1980 film Shaan.

Kulbhushan Kharbanda began his acting journey in the 1960s with a theatre group called 'Yatrik' in Delhi. He later moved into films, starting with Jadu Ka Shankh in 1974. He worked in many different kinds of movies, including those known as parallel cinema (films that are more artistic and realistic), before becoming a big name in mainstream Hindi films. He also appeared in all three parts of Deepa Mehta's famous Elements trilogy: Fire (1996), Earth (1998), and Water (2005).

From Stage to Screen: His Acting Journey

After finishing his studies, Kulbhushan Kharbanda and his friends started a theatre group called "Abhiyaan." He then joined "Yatrik," a theatre group in Delhi, becoming its first paid actor. After some time, he moved to Kolkata in 1972 and worked with another theatre group called "Padatik." This experience helped him prepare for his move to Mumbai and the world of films.

Making His Mark in Indian Cinema

Kulbhushan Kharbanda first gained attention in the 1974 film Nishaant, directed by Shyam Benegal. He worked with Benegal on several other films, including Manthan (1976) and Junoon (1978). Soon, he became a regular choice for directors making "parallel cinema" films, which focused on realistic stories and strong acting.

His big break into mainstream cinema came when he played the bald villain Shakaal in Shaan (1980), directed by Ramesh Sippy. This role made him very popular.

Iconic Roles and Diverse Films

After Shaan, Kulbhushan Kharbanda appeared in many popular films like Shakti (1982), Ghayal (1990), and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992). He also continued to act in artistic films such as Arth (1982) and Monsoon Wedding (2001).

He has played many different types of characters. For example, he was seen in historical films like Jodha Akbar and Lagaan. He also acted in several Punjabi films, including the well-known Chan Pardesi (1980). His work with director Deepa Mehta is notable, as he appeared in six of her movies, including her famous "Elements trilogy."

Beyond Movies: TV Shows and Web Series

Besides films, Kulbhushan Kharbanda has also acted in many television serials, such as Shanno Ki Shaadi and Mahi Ve. More recently, he has become known for his roles in popular web series like Mirzapur (where he played Satyanand Tripathi, also known as Bauji) and A Suitable Boy. He continues to perform on stage in plays like Atmakatha.

Awards and Recognition

Kulbhushan Kharbanda has been nominated for several awards for his acting.