Kader Khan Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Kader Khan was one of Bollywood’s most talented and versatile personalities — an actor, screenwriter, comedian, and dialogue writer. With a career spanning over four decades, he appeared in more than 300 films, winning audiences with his impeccable comic timing, strong character roles, and memorable villains. Behind the screen, he penned dialogues for many of Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic films of the 70s and 80s, shaping an era of Hindi cinema. His journey from a struggling background to becoming one of the industry’s most respected figures is truly inspirational.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Kader Khan
- Date of Birth: 22 October 1937
- Birthplace: Kabul, Afghanistan
- Nationality: Indian-Canadian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Died: 31 December 2018, Toronto, Canada (aged 81)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 75 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Kader Khan was born into a Pashtun family in Kabul and later migrated to Mumbai with his parents. He grew up in poverty in the Kamathipura area but was determined to make something of his life. His father was Abdul Rehman Khan, and his mother was Iqbal Begum.
Education Journey
- Studied at M.H. Saboo Siddik College of Engineering, Mumbai.
- Earned a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering.
- Briefly worked as a professor of engineering before turning to theatre and cinema.
Entry into Cinema & Screenwriting Career
- Made his mark as a playwright and theatre actor, which caught the attention of filmmaker Narinder Bedi.
- Debuted as a dialogue writer with Jawani Diwani (1972).
- Wrote powerful dialogues for many Amitabh Bachchan blockbusters, including Zanjeer (1973), Deewar (1975), Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), Coolie (1983), and Shahenshah (1988).
- Penned over 250 films as a writer, contributing to the golden era of Hindi cinema.
Acting Debut & Rise to Stardom
- Acting Debut: Daag (1973) in a supporting role.
- Established himself as a reliable villain in films like Roti (1974), Dharam Veer (1977), and Suhaag (1979).
- Transitioned to comedy in the 80s and 90s, becoming one of Bollywood’s most beloved comic actors.
Bollywood Journey & Iconic Films
- As Villain/Character Actor: Suhaag, Dharam Veer, Roti, Qurbani, Himmatwala.
- As Comedian: Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri (1990), Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994), Coolie No. 1 (1995), Judwaa (1997), Dulhe Raja (1998), Mujhse Shaadi Karogi (2004).
- As Father/Supporting Roles: Raja Babu (1994), Saajan Chale Sasural (1996), Hero No. 1 (1997).
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Award for Best Comedian (1991): Baap Numbri Beta Dus Numbri.
- Filmfare Best Dialogue Award (1982): Meri Awaaz Suno.
- Sahitya Shiromani Award (2013): For his contribution to Hindi cinema.
- Recognized as one of Bollywood’s greatest dialogue writers and comedians.
Personal Life
Kader Khan’s personal life was as fascinating as his professional journey.
- Marriage & Family: He was married to Azra Khan, and the couple had three sons – Sarfaraz, Shahnawaz, and Quddus. His son Sarfaraz Khan also appeared in films for a while. Despite his busy schedule in films, Kader Khan remained a deeply family-oriented man. Later in life, he moved to Canada to be closer to his children and grandchildren.
- Humble Beginnings & Struggles: Growing up in poverty in Mumbai’s Kamathipura area, he never forgot his roots. His early struggles shaped his grounded personality. Even after achieving fame, he lived simply, often helping strugglers in the industry and students in his neighborhood.
- Friendships & Professional Bonds: He shared a special bond with Amitabh Bachchan, Manmohan Desai, and David Dhawan, having worked closely with them as both writer and actor. His comedy duo with Govinda in the 90s became iconic, making them one of Bollywood’s most loved pairs.
- Personality & Lifestyle: Known for his sharp wit and deep intelligence, Kader Khan was multilingual — fluent in Hindi, Urdu, Pashto, and English. He was also a respected Islamic scholar and often gave lectures on Urdu literature and the Quran. Despite his success, he stayed modest and approachable, with colleagues remembering him as a teacher figure.
- Teaching & Writing: Even after entering films, he never gave up his love for teaching. In Canada, he continued mentoring students and remained active in cultural and literary circles. His respect for education remained central to his philosophy in life.
Death
Kader Khan passed away on 31 December 2018 in Toronto, Canada, due to a prolonged illness. He suffered from progressive supranuclear palsy and respiratory issues. His death marked the end of an era for Indian cinema.
Legacy & Influence
Kader Khan’s legacy is immense — he was not just an actor but also a writer who gave Bollywood some of its most iconic dialogues. His comedic partnership with Govinda became legendary in the 90s, making him a household name. He remains celebrated for his wit, versatility, and contributions to both mainstream and meaningful cinema.
FAQs
Q1: What was Kader Khan’s debut film?
A: Daag (1973).
Q2: How many films did Kader Khan write dialogues for?
A: Over 250 films.
Q3: What was Kader Khan’s educational background?
A: He was a qualified civil engineer and taught at M.H. Saboo Siddik College, Mumbai.
Q4: Who was Kader Khan’s frequent comedy partner?
A: Govinda, with whom he delivered several hit comedies in the 90s.
Q5: When did Kader Khan die?
A: 31 December 2018, in Toronto, Canada.
