Article: A Tribute to Kader Khan

Introduction

Welcome to Shradhanjali.com, where we honour the memory of cinema greats. In this exclusive tribute, we celebrate Kader Khan—a beloved actor, comedian, professor, and dialogue writer whose work left an unforgettable mark on Bollywood.

Early Life & Journey to Stardom

Kader Khan was born on 22 October 1937 in Kabul, Afghanistan, into a humble Pashtun family. His parents, believing their homeland carried misfortunes after losing three brothers in childhood, emigrated to Mumbai seeking a fresh start. Despite the hardships, Khan excelled academically, clearing his school and college exams with distinction.

From Engineering Professor to Performer

Kader Khan earned a civil engineering degree from Ismail Yusuf College (Mumbai University) and began teaching at M.H. Saboo Siddik College of Engineering in Byculla. He also performed in college plays—one such performance impressed none other than Dilip Kumar, who cast him in Sagina (1974) and Bairaag (1976), launching a career he never looked back from.

Rise as a Dialogue Writer & Screenwriter

Debut with Jawani Diwani (1972)

Khan made his breakthrough as a dialogue writer with Jawani Diwani (1972), a musical romance directed by Narendra Bedi and starring Randhir Kapoor and Jaya Bhaduri. The film was a box-office hit, ranking as ninth ninth-highest-grossing film that year.

Crafting Iconic Dialogues for Blockbusters

Over his career, he wrote dialogues for more than 250 films and acted in over 300—a testament to his versatility and influence. Notably, he was paid a hefty ₹121,000 for Roti (1974) at Rajesh Khanna’s insistence—a significant sum back then.

Khan frequently collaborated with stalwarts like Amitabh Bachchan (Muqaddar Ka Sikandar, Naseeb), Manmohan Desai, and directors like David Dhawan, contributing to comedy, action, drama, and romance genres.

As an Actor: A Comedic Maestro

On-Screen Persona & Range

Khan’s on-screen legacy spans comedy, family drama, and social roles—from Himmatwala to Coolie No. 1, Aankhen, and Family: Ties of Blood—demonstrating his flexible artistry.

Transition to Television

In the 2000s, Kader Khan ventured into television, featuring in Hasna Mat (2001), Hi! Padosi… Kaun Hai Doshi?, and continued acting in films like Lucky: No Time for Love (2006) and Family: Ties of Blood (2006).

Career Highlights: Must-Watch Films

Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978)

An action-crime drama written by Kader Khan, this Amitabh Bachchan film became the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 1978, a Diwali blockbuster, and one of the decade’s top three hits.

Naseeb (1981)

Directed by Manmohan Desai, written by Kader Khan, and starring a powerhouse ensemble, Naseeb was a box-office hit and is remembered for its memorable characters and music.

Mahaan (1983)

Khan co-wrote Mahaan, where Amitabh Bachchan played a rare triple role. This action thriller celebrated a golden jubilee in South India and a silver jubilee in the rest of India.

Other Notable Works

• Jawani Diwani (1972) – dialogue debut
  
  
• Roti (1974) – dialogue praised, lucrative payment

Numerous dialogue writing credits through the ’70s and ’80s, including Amar Akbar Anthony, Parvarish, Kasak, Suhaag, and and Coolie.

Personal Life & Legacy

Life Beyond the Screen

Despite achieving fame, Kader Khan remained grounded. He taught with passion and engaged in theatre performances even as his film career soared. His early life struggles informed the depth he brought to his roles.

Enduring Influence

Khan’s legacy lives on in countless classic dialogues and roles, and he remains a beloved figure in the hearts of Bollywood fans. His humour, timing, and writing set a benchmark for future generations.

Conclusion

Our digital tribute to Kader Khan on Shradhanjali.com blends biography, memories, cultural rituals, and community, all crafted to honour his legacy with care and dignity.
We hope this page becomes a space where fans, family, scholars, and newcomers can reflect, remember, and connect.

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