Full Name: Anil Kapoor (professionally known as Annu Kapoor)
Born: February 20, 1956
Birthplace: Itwara, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
Profession: Actor, TV host, radio presenter, film producer
Active Since: 1979 – Present
Early Life & Background
- Annu Kapoor was born into a culturally rich family. His father was a Punjabi who owned a traveling Parsi theatre company, while his mother was a Bengali poet.
- Due to financial struggles, he had to drop out of school and take up odd jobs before enrolling in the National School of Drama (NSD), Delhi.
Film Career
Annu Kapoor is known for his versatile acting, spanning comedy, drama, and supporting roles.
Debut & Early Roles
- Made his Bollywood debut with “Mandi” (1983), directed by Shyam Benegal.
- Gained recognition for his role in “Utsav” (1984), produced by Shashi Kapoor.
Notable Films
- Mr. India (1987) – Played the funny and unforgettable editor, Gaitonde.
- Tezaab (1988) – Acted alongside Anil Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit.
- Darr (1993) – Played Shah Rukh Khan’s loyal friend.
- Vicky Donor (2012) – His role as Dr. Chaddha won him a National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor.
- Jolly LLB 2 (2017) – Delivered a strong performance in the courtroom drama.
- Dream Girl (2019) & Dream Girl 2 (2023) – Played Ayushmann Khurrana’s hilarious father.
Television & Radio Career
Annu Kapoor gained immense popularity as a TV and radio host.
Antakshari (1993–2006)
- Hosted the musical game show Close-Up Antakshari on Zee TV for over 13 years, making it a household name in India.
Suhana Safar with Annu Kapoor (Radio Show)
- Hosted this show on 92.7 BIG FM, where he narrated fascinating Bollywood stories.
Other TV Shows
- Wheel Smart Shrimati (Quiz Show)
- The Great Indian Laughter Challenge (Judge)
- Gubbare (Doordarshan)
Awards & Recognition
- National Film Award – Best Supporting Actor (Vicky Donor, 2012)
- Filmfare Award – Best Supporting Actor (Vicky Donor, 2012)
- IIFA Award – Best Supporting Actor (Vicky Donor, 2012)
- Zee Cine Award – Lifetime Achievement Award
Personal Life
- Married Anupama Kapoor, and they have children.
- Known for his deep knowledge of history, literature, and Bollywood trivia.
- Has also written books on Bollywood history.
Legacy
Annu Kapoor is celebrated as one of Bollywood’s finest character actors and an iconic host. His deep voice, humor, and storytelling skills make him a beloved personality in Indian entertainment.
