Here are 10 lesser-known facts about Amrish Puri:

1. Failed His First Screen Test – Despite his passion for acting, he was initially rejected in his first screen test and had to work in a government job before making it in films.

2. Worked in LIC for 21 Years – Before becoming an actor, he worked as an 'A' grade officer in the Life Insurance Corporation of India for over two decades.

3. Theatre Background – He was a well-known stage actor and won the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1979 for his contributions to theatre.

4. Highest-Paid Villain – He was one of the highest-paid villains in Bollywood and even walked out of a film when the director refused to pay him ?80 lakh.

5. Skeptical About Mogambo – Initially, he was unsure about playing Mogambo in Mr. India, but director Shekhar Kapur convinced him by saying, "You have to play Shakespeare’s role for 10-year-old kids".

6. Attention to Detail – He was meticulous about his appearance, ensuring his shoelaces, mustache length, and other details were always perfect.

7. Avoided Voice Recordings – He disliked his voice being recorded during magazine interviews, fearing it would compromise the uniqueness of his baritone voice.

8. Cousin of K.L. Saigal – He was related to the legendary singer K.L. Saigal, one of India's earliest playback singers.

9. Started Acting at 40 – Unlike many actors who start young, he entered the film industry at the age of 40 and quickly became a dominant force.

10. Refused to Let His Son Join Bollywood – He discouraged his son, Rajeev Puri, from entering the film industry, believing the struggle was too harsh.