Vinod Khanna Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Vinod Khanna was one of Bollywood’s most charismatic and versatile actors, admired for his dashing looks, strong screen presence, and remarkable range as both a villain and hero. With memorable performances in films like Mere Apne, Amar Akbar Anthony, Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Qurbani, Dayavan, and Chandni, he was among the top stars of the 1970s and 1980s. Beyond cinema, Vinod Khanna also became a politician, serving as a Member of Parliament and Union Minister. His journey from a reluctant actor to a superstar and statesman remains truly inspirational.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Vinod Khanna
- Date of Birth: 6 October 1946
- Birthplace: Peshawar, British India (now in Pakistan)
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Died: 27 April 2017, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India (aged 70)
Physical Appearance
- Height: 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 80 kg
- Hair Color: Black (later grey)
- Eye Color: Hazel Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Vinod Khanna was born in Peshawar. After Partition, his family moved to Mumbai. His father, Kishanchand Khanna, was a businessman, and his mother was Kamla Khanna. Initially, Vinod was shy and had no plans to join films, but fate and his striking personality brought him to Bollywood.
Education Journey
- Schooled at St. Xavier’s High School, Mumbai and later at Delhi Public School, Delhi.
- Graduated with a degree in commerce from Sydenham College, Mumbai.
- While in college, he developed an interest in theatre, which eventually led him to films.
Film Debut & Early Career
- Debut Film: Man Ka Meet (1968), where he played the antagonist opposite Sunil Dutt’s brother Som Dutt.
- Initially typecast as a villain in films like Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Sachaa Jhutha (1970).
- His powerful performances soon made him a leading man.
Rise to Stardom
Vinod Khanna’s transformation from villain to hero made him one of the most bankable stars:
- Mere Apne (1971) – Marked his transition to serious roles.
- Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) – Iconic role as Amar, cementing his place among Bollywood’s greats.
- Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978) – Another blockbuster with Amitabh Bachchan.
- Qurbani (1980) – Stylish action thriller that became a cult hit.
- Dayavan (1988) – Memorable role opposite Madhuri Dixit.
- Chandni (1989) – Played a charming romantic lead in this Yash Chopra classic.
Bollywood Journey & Iconic Films
- Man Ka Meet (1968)
- Purab Aur Paschim (1970)
- Mere Apne (1971)
- Amar Akbar Anthony (1977)
- Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978)
- Qurbani (1980)
- Rajput (1982)
- Dayavan (1988)
- Chandni (1989)
- The Burning Train (1980)
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Award: Best Supporting Actor for Haath Ki Safai (1974).
- Lifetime Achievement Awards from various film associations.
- Served as Union Minister for Culture and Tourism and later as Minister of State for External Affairs.
- Elected four times as Member of Parliament from Gurdaspur, Punjab.
Personal Life
Vinod Khanna’s personal life was as eventful as his career:
- Marriage & Family: He married Geetanjali Taleyarkhan in 1971, with whom he had two sons – Rahul Khanna and Akshaye Khanna, both of whom became actors. Later, the couple divorced. He then married Kavita Daftary, with whom he had a son, Sakshi Khanna, and a daughter, Shraddha Khanna.
- Relationships & Spiritual Journey: In the 1980s, at the peak of his career, Vinod Khanna took a break from films to follow spiritual leader Osho (Bhagwan Rajneesh) in the United States. This decision shocked fans and colleagues but showed his deep spiritual side.
- Comeback: After several years, he returned to Bollywood in the late 1980s with hits like Insaaf and Dayavan.
- Personality & Lifestyle: Known for his good looks, humility, and gentlemanly demeanor, Vinod Khanna was admired by both fans and peers. His close friendships with contemporaries like Amitabh Bachchan and Feroz Khan were legendary.
- Politics: He joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1997 and went on to serve as a respected MP and Union Minister.
Death
Vinod Khanna passed away on 27 April 2017 due to bladder cancer. His death left a void in both the film industry and political circles.
Legacy & Influence
Vinod Khanna is remembered as one of Bollywood’s most handsome and charismatic heroes. His journey from villain to superstar, his spiritual quest, and his later success in politics make him a multi-faceted personality. He left behind a legacy of memorable films, public service, and inspiration for generations.
FAQs
Q1: What was Vinod Khanna’s debut film?
A: Man Ka Meet (1968).
Q2: Who are Vinod Khanna’s children?
A: Rahul Khanna, Akshaye Khanna, Sakshi Khanna, and Shraddha Khanna.
Q3: Did Vinod Khanna leave films for spiritual reasons?
A: Yes, he temporarily quit Bollywood in the 1980s to follow Osho in the U.S.
Q4: Which are his most famous films?
A: Amar Akbar Anthony, Qurbani, Dayavan, Chandni, Mere Apne.
Q5: Was Vinod Khanna also a politician?
A: Yes, he served as MP from Gurdaspur and as Union Minister for Culture, Tourism, and External Affairs.
