Zeeshan Qadri Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Zeeshan Qadri is an Indian actor, writer, director, and producer, best known as the man behind the iconic film Gangs of Wasseypur. His work as a writer and storyteller in Anurag Kashyap’s cult classic changed the way gangster films are made in India. With his talent in screenwriting, acting, and direction, Zeeshan has become a multi-dimensional artist in Bollywood.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Zeeshan Qadri
- Date of Birth: 1974 (approx.)
- Birthplace: Wasseypur, Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Not Publicly Known
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 70 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Brown
- Build: Average
Early Life & Family Background
Zeeshan Qadri was born in Wasseypur, Dhanbad (Jharkhand) into a middle-class family. Growing up in the region heavily influenced his creative journey, as he later used his own experiences and local stories to create the raw, authentic world of Gangs of Wasseypur.
Education Journey
He completed his schooling in Dhanbad and later moved to Delhi to study. He eventually shifted to Mumbai to pursue his passion for writing and films.
Career Beginnings
Before entering films, Zeeshan worked in different fields, but his interest in storytelling and cinema brought him to Mumbai. He started by writing scripts and soon collaborated with filmmaker Anurag Kashyap.
Film Breakthrough – Gangs of Wasseypur
- Zeeshan Qadri wrote the story and screenplay for Gangs of Wasseypur (2012), which became a cult classic.
- He also acted in the film, playing the role of Definite in Gangs of Wasseypur Part 2.
- His authentic writing, based on the real-life mafia wars of Wasseypur, won him critical acclaim.
Acting Career
Apart from writing, Zeeshan acted in several films:
- Revolver Rani (2014)
- Bhoomi (2017) with Sanjay Dutt
- Meeruthiya Gangsters (2015) – where he also made his directorial debut.
Directorial Career
- Meeruthiya Gangsters (2015): His directorial debut, inspired by true events in Meerut. The film gained attention for its raw style.
- He has also directed and produced web projects, bringing gritty storytelling to the digital space.
Recent Work & OTT Presence
Zeeshan continues to work as an actor, writer, and producer, often collaborating on projects in the crime, drama, and thriller genres. His contribution to OTT platforms is growing, with projects lined up in Hindi web series and films.
Personal Life
Zeeshan Qadri keeps his personal life private. He is deeply connected to his roots in Wasseypur and often shares that his upbringing shaped his storytelling.
Awards & Achievements
- Acclaimed for writing Gangs of Wasseypur, which was screened at international film festivals.
- Recognized as a game-changer in Indian screenwriting.
- Earned critical appreciation for bringing realism to Bollywood gangster dramas.
Records & Milestones
- Credited as the man behind one of India’s greatest gangster films.
- Balanced roles as actor, writer, director, and producer successfully.
- Known for introducing authentic, real-world narratives into Indian cinema.
Beyond Films
- Works as a producer and mentor for young writers.
- Actively contributes to the rise of OTT crime thrillers in India.
- Continues to experiment with genres beyond crime dramas.
Legacy & Influence
Zeeshan Qadri’s contribution to Indian cinema lies in his authentic writing and storytelling. He gave Bollywood one of its most iconic cult classics and continues to inspire young storytellers to bring real-life stories to the big screen.
