Anupam Kher
Anupam Kher is one of Indian cinema’s most versatile actors with an incredible 540 films in multiple languages. His 40-year old career has earned him two National Film Awards, eight Filmfare Awards, and the prestigious Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri from the Indian government.
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His career took off with a gutsy decision that would define his future – he played a 65-year-old man in “Saaransh” (1984) when he was just 28. This powerful performance showed everyone that he was ready to redefine the limits of acting. His life’s philosophy “Failure is an event, never a person” has shaped both his acting career and personal life.
This piece tells the story of an underdog who became one of Bollywood’s most respected names. Kher’s early struggles, his method acting skills, and his commitment to nurturing new talent through his acting school ‘Actor Prepares’ have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema for four decades.
“Your desire to change must be greater than your desire to stay the same.”
Early Life of Anupam Kher
Growing up in a Kashmiri Pandit family
Anupam Kher was born on March 7, 1955, in Shimla to a humble Kashmiri Pandit family. His father Pushkar Nath Kher earned his living as a clerk in Himachal Pradesh’s forest department, while his mother Dulari Kher took care of their home. The family survived on Rs 90 per month, which supported his father’s wife and four sons.
Dulari, who was born in Srinagar, kept their Kashmiri traditions alive in Shimla. This strong connection to Kashmir would shape Kher’s future work and his advocacy for the Kashmiri Pandit community.
School days and theatre beginnings
Kher studied at DAV School in Shimla from 1966 to 1971. He proudly calls himself a backbencher who rarely scored above 35 percent in his subjects. His love for theatre blossomed during these early years, and his PT teacher Sada Singh’s encouraging words left a lasting impact.
He chose to study economics at Government College, Sanjauli after school. His passion for acting drove him to take a daring step – he borrowed Rs 100 from his mother’s temple offerings to join an acting course at Punjab University, Chandigarh.
The National School of Drama (NSD) in New Delhi became his next destination, where he graduated in 1978. His NSD years brought him close to Satish Kaushik, despite their financial hardships that led to creative survival tactics. They would sneak into weddings, where Kher would introduce himself as “Mister Bertolt Brecht from Germany” to get free meals.
His performances in plays at Himachal Pradesh University became the stepping stones for his future career. After graduation, he decided to teach acting instead of pursuing film roles right away, believing teaching would deepen his grasp of the craft.
Career Journey of Anupam Kher
Living at railway stations
Anupam Kher’s path to stardom tested his resilience in Mumbai’s harsh reality. He had no industry connections or financial backing and spent nights at railway platforms. His strict schedule made him sleep at 1:40 AM after the last train left and wake up at 4:40 AM before the first train arrived. His grandfather’s words became his guiding light when he thought of giving up: “Bheega hua aadmi baarish se nahi darta” (A drenched man never fears the rain).
First break in movies
Fate stepped in through filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt. Kher learned another actor had been chosen for Saaransh and confronted Bhatt with fierce conviction. “No one would play the part better than me,” he declared with the same passion that had kept him going through tough times. Bhatt felt so moved by Kher’s determination that he told the producers he wouldn’t make the film without him.
Saaransh and critical acclaim
The gamble worked brilliantly when Saaransh released in 1984. Kher was just 28 years old but portrayed a 65-year-old man who struggled with his son’s death. The film achieved several milestones:
- Chosen as India’s official entry for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
- Earned Kher his first Filmfare Award for Best Actor.
- Received widespread critical acclaim for its profound exploration of loss and grief.
The film’s influence reached far beyond awards. Legendary actor Sanjeev Kumar, who was first considered for the role, praised Kher’s performance: “I couldn’t have played this role the way this boy has played it. He was born to play this role”. The film proved Kher could exceed age barriers and handle complex characters with remarkable depth.
Rise in Bollywood
Versatile role choices
Anupam Kher broke traditional casting norms in Bollywood after his breakthrough in Saaransh. His impressive filmography includes over 542 films in various industries. He stands out in an industry known for typecasting because he knows how to bring diverse characters to life.
Kher believed in being selective about his roles. He chose projects that sparked his creative instincts and took breaks between films to deliver quality performances. This dedication brought him eight Filmfare Awards and many other honors.
Comedy and villain roles
The 1980s saw Kher emerge as a compelling antagonist. His powerful performances in Karma (1986), Tezaab (1988), and ChaalBaaz (1989) made him a feared villain on screen. While he excelled in negative roles, comedy turned out to be his true strength.
His perfect comic timing added new flavor to Bollywood humor. Some of his most memorable performances include:
- Filmfare Award-winning roles in Khel (1992), Darr (1993), and Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995)
- Iconic performances in Ram Lakhan (1989) and Shola Aur Shabnam (1992)
- The unforgettable role of a giggly college dean in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
Of course, as his career progressed, Kher’s approach to roles matured. “As my mind keeps maturing, I need to keep challenging myself,” he reflected on his recent preference for serious roles. His performances in films like Khosla Ka Ghosla (2006) and A Wednesday! (2008) showcased this progress.
Kher managed to keep his belief that performing arts goes beyond expression – it’s a profession that demands constant reinvention. His natural shift between comedy, villainy, and serious roles has made him one of Indian cinema’s most versatile actors.
Family and Personal Life of Anupam Kher
Marriage to Kirron Kher
Anupam Kher and Kirron Kher’s love story grew from a friendship that lasted ten years. They first met in Chandigarh’s theatre circuit where they built a strong bond that blossomed into love. The couple tied the knot in 1985 at an ashram in Gurgaon, which marked the start of their lifelong journey together. Life’s challenges brought them closer. Anupam struggled with heartbreak from a previous relationship while Kirron faced difficulties in her marriage. These shared experiences and mutual understanding became the foundations of their relationship. Anupam sees Kirron as “the most honest person, bindass, beautiful, caring, and having a strong character”. Their bond strengthened through their shared love of acting and deep understanding of each other.
Relationship with stepson Sikandar
Sikandar was just four years old at the time Anupam and Kirron married. Anupam took his role as a father with steadfast dedication. “What my father was to me, I am to him,” Anupam shared, speaking about his relationship with Sikandar.
Parental Bond
Their relationship shows the beauty of chosen family connections. A recent birthday message from Anupam to Sikandar revealed their close bond, describing him as “a wonderful man! Confident, vulnerable, most of the times responsible, funnier of course and loving”.
Personal Reflections
Over the last several years, Anupam has spoken openly about not having biological children. He started feeling a certain void after turning 50-55. But this feeling has nothing to do with his relationship with Sikandar. He sometimes misses having his own child, yet doesn’t see it as a loss. Medical interventions didn’t help when the couple tried to conceive.
The family shares a strong bond today. Kirron often expresses her motherly wishes, especially her hope to see Sikandar married. Their story is evidence of how love and commitment create beautiful family bonds, whatever the biological connections.
Creating Future Actors
Starting Actor Prepares school
A Vision for Acting Education Anupam Kher started Actor Prepares in 2005 to nurture competent and professionally committed actors. The institute began in Mumbai and later expanded to Chandigarh, Chennai, and the UK.
Growth and Recognition The institution started small with eight students in a modest studio but grew into a globally recognized acting school. A Canadian television network called it ‘The Most Unique School for Acting’ in the world.
Teaching methodology
Professional Development Approach The school’s philosophy goes beyond traditional acting instruction. Students learn to become complete performers – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Training never stops here, and many professionals who have worked in plays, TV shows, and movies come back to learn more.
Educational Philosophy Actor Prepares stands out through its steadfast dedication to honest, sincere training. “An acting school is not just about teaching acting skills,” Kher explains. “It teaches primarily one thing – the ability to distinguish right from wrong and good from bad”.
Success stories
Notable Alumni The school has launched many successful careers in Indian cinema. Some distinguished alumni include:
- Deepika Padukone
- Abhishek Bachchan
- Hrithik Roshan
- Varun Dhawan
- Kiara Advani
- Preity Zinta
Recent Developments Actor Prepares celebrates its 20th anniversary by introducing the ‘Actor Prepares Awards’ to honor excellence in acting. This initiative recognizes outstanding performances and carries forward the institute’s legacy of promoting quality in performing arts.
Industry Impact The school stays relevant by adapting to changing times. Kher believes we live in the golden era for professional actors, where audiences appreciate diverse cinema and performances. The institution continues to prepare actors for this evolving digital world by emphasizing authenticity and emotional depth.
Hollywood Journey
International debut
Breaking into Hollywood The millennium marked the most important turning point in Anupam Kher’s career when he entered Hollywood with Gurinder Chadha’s Bend It Like Beckham in 2002. The film became a soaring win and grossed around INR 6463.54 million worldwide, creating new opportunities for the veteran actor.
Early Collaborations Kher’s success led him to work again with Chadha on Bride and Prejudice and The Mistress of Spices. He made calculated appearances in popular television shows like ER and Spooks that built strong foundations for his international career.
Notable Hollywood projects
Award-Winning Films We worked with distinguished directors like Ang Lee in the Golden Lion-winning Lust, Caution. His role in David O. Russell’s Silver Linings Playbook with Robert De Niro and Jennifer Lawrence brought him global acclaim.
Recent Achievements Kher’s versatility shines through his Hollywood career. BBC’s The Boy With The Topknot earned him a British Academy Television Award nomination. His portrayal of a schizophrenic patient stands out as one of his most challenging performances, shot in Manchester’s freezing weather over just 20 days.
Television Success His television career flourished with prominent roles in:
- Netflix’s science fiction series Sense8 (2015-18)
- BBC mini-series Mrs. Wilson (2018)
- Medical drama New Amsterdam
Strategic Career Choices Kher’s Hollywood success comes from his selective approach to roles. He consistently avoided cultural stereotypes, stating, “I am very conscious when it comes to choosing roles there… it’s almost as if I am representing my country”. United Agents, his talent agency, played a vital role in securing meaningful roles that surpass cultural barriers.
Key Achievements
Record-Breaking Recognition: Anupam Kher’s remarkable career boasts an unmatched streak of eight consecutive Filmfare Awards. His talent shines through five Filmfare Awards for Best Comedian. These awards came from his unforgettable roles in Ram Lakhan (1989), Lamhe (1991), Khel (1992), Darr (1993), and Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995).
National Honors: The Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 2004. His excellence in art earned him the prestigious Padma Bhushan in 2016. He also claimed two National Film Awards – Special Mention for his powerful performances in Daddy (1989) and Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara (2005).
International Recognition: Kher’s talent reached global audiences, leading to a British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) nomination. The Boy With The Topknot (2018) became one of his most important international milestones. The International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) celebrated his work with the Outstanding Achievement in Indian Cinema award.
Humanitarian Contributions: The 2008-old Anupam Kher Foundation earned him the Dalai Lama Award for his work with underprivileged children. His steadfast dedication shows in his role as a Goodwill Ambassador for Pratham Education Foundation, where he champions quality education for underprivileged children.
Industry Milestones: The Los Angeles City Council recognized Kher’s cinematic excellence in February 2013. His inclusion in the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences (USA) strengthened his position in global cinema. His 40-year experience spans over 540 films and 100 plays.
Literary Achievements: Kher’s creative talents extend to writing with three successful books. “The Best Thing About You Is You” reached its 20th edition and speaks six languages. His other works include the autobiography “Lessons Life Taught Me, Unknowingly” and “Your Best Day Is Today”.
Digital Influence: Kher has made his mark in the digital world. He ranked among the top ten social media influencers worldwide in 2019. The Hindu University of America acknowledged his diverse contributions to arts and society with an honorary doctorate in 2021.
Giving Back
The Anupam Kher Foundation The Anupam Kher Foundation started in 2008 as a Public Charitable Trust in Mumbai. Education stands at its core. The organization wants to create better opportunities through quality education programs that take an all-encompassing approach to development for children from less privileged backgrounds.
Project Heal India Project Heal India showed remarkable spirit during the pandemic crisis. They partnered with Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari and Baba Kalyani to distribute vital medical equipment. The foundation hosted ‘Ek Saath,’ a global online Bollywood concert. This event featured 30 leading performers and brought together organizations like Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora and I Am Buddha foundation.
Support for Community Causes Kher made a notable contribution at the Global Kashmiri Pandit Conclave by pledging Rs 5 lakh to support Kashmiri Pandits. His support goes beyond money. He continues to promote various social causes throughout his 34-year career.
Global Philanthropy Impact Kher’s viewpoint on charitable giving as chief guest at a Pratham fundraiser in Schaumburg was memorable: “People in India donate with compulsion, but you (in US) do it with compassion. Compassion wins over compulsion”. His celebrity status helps bring awareness that changes people’s lives meaningfully.
Healthcare Initiatives Project Heal India’s healthcare programs include:
- Distribution of ventilators and oxygen concentrators
- Provision of PPE kits to hospitals
- Support for vulnerable populations including orphans and widows
- Relief measures for artists affected by the pandemic
Social Awareness Champion Kher’s philanthropic work ended up touching various social causes. He serves as a powerful voice for corporate social responsibility initiatives. His campaign involvement goes deeper than traditional charity. He believes in being “pro-life” rather than just supporting specific causes. He has personally given voice prosthesis to cancer patients and recognized transgender individuals who beat tobacco addiction at many events.
Key Takeaways
Lessons from Failures: Anupam Kher’s life gives a deep explanation about the power of perseverance. “I am a success story of my failures,” he often reflects and sees setbacks as stepping stones rather than obstacles. His approach to challenges comes from his belief that failure is an event, not a person.
Artistic Evolution: Kher’s extensive experience makes him emphasize the need to stay true to one’s craft. He shows deep concern for Hindi cinema’s future while noting how regional cinema keeps its cultural authenticity. He supports the idea that cinema should tell stories of both modern and ancient India with equal conviction.
Personal Philosophy His life principles revolve around three core beliefs:
- Staying focused and never surrendering to circumstances
- Making someone happy every day through small gestures
- Being kind and generous, even toward critics
Age as Opportunity: Much like his role in Vijay 69, Kher shows that age creates no barriers to learning. He learned swimming at 69, proving that new experiences add value to life at any stage. His mantra stays clear: “Dreams have no expiry date”.
Industry Insights: Kher believes Hindi films need to find their groove again. Rather than following trends, he supports storytelling that celebrates life, like in classics like DDLJ and films by Hrishikesh Mukherjee.
Teaching Legacy: Nurturing new talent brings him his greatest satisfaction. Former students approach him at events and identify themselves from specific batches, which he calls his most important achievement. His acting school ended up as his “biggest trophy” despite his many film accolades.
Future Vision: Kher refuses traditional industry labels like “veteran” or “legend”. His viewpoint remains fresh: “This is just the interval,” he declares and sees his 40-year trip as merely the beginning. He asks publications not to consider him for lifetime achievement awards for the next 25 years, showing his ongoing commitment to cinema.
Global Indian Impact Analysis
