Shakti Kapoor began his career in the 1970s after studying acting at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. Initially struggling with minor roles, he was spotted by Sunil Dutt during the making of Rocky (1981), which launched Sanjay Dutt. Dutt suggested changing his name from Sunil Kapoor to Shakti Kapoor to suit his villainous persona. His early villain roles in Qurbani (1980), Rocky (1981), and Hero (1983) established him as a formidable screen presence.
By the 1990s, Kapoor transitioned into comic roles, often teaming up with Kader Khan and Asrani in over 100 films. His iconic performances include Nandu in Raja Babu (1994), Crime Master Gogo in Andaz Apna Apna (1994), and Batuknath in ChaalBaaz (1989). He won the Filmfare Award for Best Comedian for Raja Babu. His trademark dialogues and eccentric style made him a favorite among mimicry artists and audiences alike. He remains active in films and television, including a stint on Bigg Boss in 2011.