Anupam Kher

Anupam Kher is an actor, director, and producer known for his extensive work in Hindi cinema. With a career spanning more than four decades, Kher has appeared in over 540 films, establishing a significant presence in Indian film and television. A graduate of the National School of Drama in New Delhi, Kher is recognized for bringing a strong theatrical foundation to Bollywood, contributing to his versatility across genres.

Kher's breakthrough came with the film "Saaransh," in which he portrayed a 65-year-old man at the age of 28. The film received critical acclaim and was selected as India's official entry for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. Kher has since become a prominent figure in Indian cinema, earning the Filmfare Award for Best Comedian five times for his roles in "Ram Lakhan," "Lamhe," "Khel," "Darr," and "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge." He has also received the National Film Award for Special Mention for his performances in "Daddy" and "Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara."

Kher's work extends internationally, with roles in films such as "Bend It Like Beckham," "Lust, Caution," "Silver Linings Playbook," and "Hotel Mumbai." He earned a BAFTA nomination for his supporting role in the British television film "The Boy with the Topknot." Kher also starred as Dr. Vijay Kapoor in the NBC medical drama series "New Amsterdam." His filmography includes "The Kashmir Files," for which he received the Best Supporting Actor honor at the UK Asian Film Festival Flame Awards.

Kher has been recognized with two National Film Awards and eight Filmfare Awards. He has received the Padma Shri and the Padma Bhushan from the Government of India for his contributions to Indian cinema and the arts. The Los Angeles City Council has acknowledged his work, and his membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences highlights his influence in global cinema. In addition to acting, Kher founded Actor Prepares, an acting school that has trained several notable actors. He is also an author, with works including "The Best Thing About You Is You!", his autobiography "Lessons Life Taught Me Unknowingly," and "Your Best Day Is Today!" Kher is known for his motivational philosophy, emphasizing resilience and personal growth, and is regarded as a significant voice in contemporary Indian culture.