Gulshan Grover, born on September 21, 1955, in New Delhi, is one of Indian cinema’s most enduring and versatile actors. With a career spanning over four decades and more than 400 films to his credit, Grover has carved a niche for himself as Bollywood’s quintessential villain—earning the moniker “Bad Man” after his unforgettable role as Kesariya Vilayati in Ram Lakhan (1989).

A postgraduate in commerce from Shri Ram College of Commerce, Grover’s journey into acting began with Delhi’s Little Theatre Group, where he honed his craft before moving to Mumbai. He later trained at the prestigious Actor’s Studio, where he studied alongside future stars like Anil Kapoor and eventually became a teacher himself.

Grover’s filmography is a rich tapestry of genres and languages, including Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and even Hollywood productions. His standout performances in films like Mohra, Vijaypath, Yes Boss, Dilwale, and Hera Pheri showcased his ability to bring depth and charisma to antagonistic roles. He also made waves internationally with films like The Second Jungle Book, Desperate Endeavours, and Beeper, becoming one of the first Indian actors to successfully bridge Bollywood and Hollywood.

In 2011, his role in I Am Kalam earned him a National Award nomination, while his portrayal of Dada Bhagwan in Desperate Endeavours won him Best Actor International at both the New York City and Houston Film Festivals.

Beyond acting, Grover is a producer, entrepreneur, and author. His autobiography Bad Man (2019) chronicles his cinematic journey and personal evolution. Known for his signature deep voice and flamboyant style, he’s also appeared in music videos like Desi Kalakaar by Yo Yo Honey Singh.

Grover’s personal life includes two brief marriages and a son, Sanjay Grover, who is also active in the entertainment industry. Despite controversies—like his bold scenes in Boom—Grover remains unapologetically himself, embracing the villainous roles that gave him longevity and fame.

From gritty gangsters to comic crooks, Gulshan Grover’s legacy is a testament to reinvention, resilience, and the power of embracing one’s cinematic identity. He continues to act in films and web series, proving that the “Bad Man” still has plenty of good stories left to tell.