Amjad Khan One of the most recognisable negative parts in Indian cinema history was played by a great actor in the 1975 movie, which led to a revolution in the way villains are depicted on the big screen:
From Danny Denzongpa’s terrifying presence to Ajit Khan’s slick villainous charm in his iconic “Mona Darling” role, the raw intensity of Sanjay Dutt’s Kanchha in Agneepath, the magnetic Mogambo played by the late Amrish Puri in Mr. India, and more recently, Arjun Kapoor’s terrifying portrayal in Ek Villain Returns, Bollywood has celebrated many memorable antagonists over the years. However, one villain from the golden age made a lasting impression on Indian cinematic history with his spooky laughter, cold delivery of dialogue, and eerie on-screen persona.
Who was the antagonist?
The threatening figure was none other than the late Amjad Khan’s portrayal of Gabbar Singh from the cult classic Sholay from 1975. This job, which was originally offered to another actor but fate had other ideas, shot him from relative obscurity to overnight success. Sholay, a blockbuster with iconic stars like Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan, is frequently likened to Star Wars in terms of its cultural influence. Despite the fact that the movie was a huge hit, Gabbar Singh was the star. Even after several decades, his famous phrases, “Kitne aadmi the?” and “Jo dar gaya… samjho mar gaya,” are still remembered by the general public.
What other motion pictures did Amjad Khan feature in?
In more than 130 films, Amjad Khan portrayed fierce adversaries in films such as Parvarish and Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (as Dilawar). His well-liked parts in films like Yaarana and Qurbani demonstrated his talent for comedy. He was able to excel in parts that were comedic, serious, and even constructive because of his adaptability. His performance as Nawab Wajid Ali Shah in Satyajit Ray’s Shatranj Ke Khilari (1977) was a major addition to Indian parallel cinema and a masterwork of nuance and royal grace. In Meera (1979), his stately portrayal of Emperor Akbar set a standard for depictions of historical figures.
More about Amjad Khan
In Hindi films, Amjad Khan transformed the role of supporting actors. Making a comeback as Gabbar Singh in a Britannia cookies commercial, he became the first on-screen antagonist to appear in a major commercial.
Due to a heart attack, Amjad Khan died on July 27, 1992, at the age of 51. His reputation as Bollywood’s greatest villain, however, endures. Across generations, people continue to hold Sholay and Gabbar Singh in high regard. One of the most iconic depictions of pure, ageless evil in Indian cinema is still his riveting performance.