Paresh Rawal Birthday Special: A Versatile Journey from Theatre to 'Babu Bhaiya'

Some faces win your heart the moment they appear on screen, while others settle deep within it. Paresh Rawal is one such actor. At times, he instills fear through his villainous roles, while at other times, as ‘Babu Bhaiya’ from Hera Pheri, he makes you laugh till your stomach hurts. This seasoned actor has not only transformed himself into every character but has made those roles immortal.

Born on May 30, 1955, in a middle-class Gujarati family in Mumbai, Paresh Rawal has acted in over 240 films and is celebrating his 70th birthday today. Let’s take a look at the fascinating milestones of his life and career.

Childhood and Theatre Connection

Paresh Rawal’s father, Dahyal Rawal, was a businessman, but he never stopped his son from pursuing his passion for acting. From school days itself, Paresh was drawn to theatre. At the age of just 15, he got his first opportunity to perform in a play. His association with theatre deepened during college, where he also met Swaroop Sampat, who later became his life partner. Swaroop was Miss India in 1979 and the daughter of Paresh’s boss. After a theatre show, Swaroop went backstage to praise Paresh – a meeting that blossomed into friendship, love, and finally marriage in 1987. Today, the couple has two sons – Aditya and Aniruddh Rawal.

Beginning of Film Career

Paresh Rawal began his career with the Gujarati film Naseeb Ni Balihari in 1982. Two years later, he made his Bollywood debut with Ketan Mehta’s Holi (1984). Since then, there’s been no looking back. Apart from Gujarati and Hindi, he has showcased his acting prowess in Marathi and Telugu films. However, his most iconic role remains that of ‘Baburao’ in director Priyadarshan’s Hera Pheri.

Refusing to be typecast, Paresh Rawal has worked in a wide variety of genres—from intense villains to laugh-out-loud comedies. Here are some of his most memorable roles:

Paresh Rawal's Iconic Roles

• Film – Sardar, Role – Vallabhbhai Patel

In this biopic directed by Ketan Mehta, Rawal portrayed India’s first Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel with incredible depth. Patel’s contribution to unifying 565 princely states was brought alive brilliantly by Rawal.

• Film – Andaz Apna Apna, Role – Ram Gopal Bajaj & Shyam Gopal Bajaj (Double Role)

In this cult classic comedy by Rajkumar Santoshi, Rawal nailed both his roles with perfect comic timing.

• Film – Welcome, Role – Dr. Ghunghroo

His character overshadowed even stalwarts like Anil Kapoor, Nana Patekar, and Akshay Kumar.

• Film – Dilwale, Role – Mama Thakur

Rawal played a fearsome villain who left a lasting impression.

• Film – Mohra, Role – Kashinath Sahu

A cop with a comic twist – his performance left audiences in splits.

• Film – Sir, Role – Veljibhai Patekar

As a gangster in this 1993 film, he garnered much praise despite playing a negative role.

• Film – Judaai, Role – Hasmukh Lal

Despite the film revolving around a love triangle, Rawal’s comic portrayal was unforgettable.

• Film – Chachi 420, Role – Hariharan

While Kamal Haasan drew attention in the lead role, Rawal’s flirtatious character added tremendous entertainment.

• Film – Hungama, Role – Radheshyam Tiwari

In this ensemble comedy, Rawal played a millionaire caught in a web of hilarious misunderstandings.

• Film – Garam Masala, Role – Mambo

As Akshay Kumar’s cook juggling multiple secrets, Rawal brought humor and warmth.

• Film – Hera Pheri, Role – Ganpatrao Apte aka Baburao

His most beloved character that became a pop culture phenomenon.

• Film – OMG! Oh My God, Role – Kanjilal Mehta

A deeply philosophical yet humorous role opposite Akshay Kumar.

• Film – Sanju, Role – Sunil Dutt

In Rajkumar Hirani’s biopic, Rawal depicted the dignified and composed father of Sanjay Dutt with emotional nuance.

Paresh Rawal's Awards and Honors

• National Film Award (1994) – Best Supporting Actor for Woh Chokri
• Filmfare Award (1993) – Best Villain for Sir
• Filmfare Award (2001) – Best Comedian for Hera Pheri
• Filmfare Award (2003) – Best Comedian for Awara Pagal Deewana
• Padma Shri (2014) – Conferred by the Government of India for his contribution to arts

Upcoming Projects

Rawal’s recent film includes Toofan (2021). In 2022, he starred in Dear Father in a lead role. His upcoming films include Nikita Roy and the Book of Darkness, Thama, and Welcome to the Jungle.

Political Career

Apart from being an actor, Paresh Rawal is also a politician. In 2014, he was elected as a Member of Parliament from the Ahmedabad East constituency on a BJP ticket.

Controversies and Anecdotes

• Walked out of Munna Bhai MBBS due to fee disputes with director Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
• Urine Therapy – During the shoot of Ghatak, he drank urine on medical advice to heal a knee injury and recovered in 15 days.
• Hera Pheri 3 Controversy – Recently in the news due to creative disputes regarding the next installment of Hera Pheri.

Paresh Rawal is not just an actor—he’s an institution. Each of his roles brings a new experience, energy, and insight. From theatre to cinema, from comedy to intense drama, he has enriched Indian cinema. From Baburao to Sardar Patel – Paresh Rawal breathes life into every role.

To the man who has painted every shade of cinema with his craft,
Who sent chills down our spine as a villain,
And filled our hearts with laughter as 'Babu Bhaiya' –
The entire team at Mayapuri wishes Paresh Rawal a very Happy Birthday!

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