NSD Students Shine Bright: Making Waves in Bollywood and Hollywood

Recently, a black-and-white photograph from the 1970 batch of the National School of Drama (NSD) has gone viral on the internet. This image features individuals who are now prominent stars in the film industry. It’s fair to say that just as Akbar’s court had its nine jewels, this batch from 1970 was adorned with outstanding talents, including Anupam Kher, Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, Neena Gupta, Pankaj Kapoor, Satish Kaushik, and Alok Nath.

Anupam Kher: A Unique Gem

All National School of Drama alumni but not the same batch and none from 1970.

Check here to find out the year of graduation https://t.co/93v1hMXWxW pic.twitter.com/RM59URg1u4

— Film History Pics (@FilmHistoryPic) October 21, 2024

Anupam Kher, a veteran actor and NSD alumnus from the 1978 batch, is a standout among NSD actors in Bollywood. His career spans decades and showcases a variety of roles. His remarkable acting skills have earned him numerous prestigious awards and the admiration of audiences.

From his memorable performances in films like "Saaransh," "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge," and "Silver Linings Playbook," Anupam Kher has established himself as one of the finest actors from the National School of Drama. Early in his career, he faced challenges and spent three years auditioning, often sleeping on footpaths, in parks, or at railway stations. His first film, "Aagman," released in 1982, didn’t bring him immediate fame. Instead, it was Mahesh Bhatt’s "Saaransh" in 1984 that gave him recognition when he portrayed a 65-year-old man, even though he was quite young at that time.

During the filming of "Hum Aapke Hain Koun," Anupam suffered a stroke, leading many to believe his career was over. However, he persevered and continues to shine in his acting endeavors. He has collaborated with Hollywood stars like Robert De Niro, Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper, and Keira Knightley.

To date, Anupam Kher has acted in over 540 films, including blockbusters like "DDLJ," "Dil," "Ram Lakhan," "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham," "Taal," "Tezaab," "Chennai Express," and "The Kashmir Files." His upcoming film, "Vijay 69," features him alongside Akshay Kumar.

Beyond Acting

In addition to acting, Anupam Kher has explored music; he sang in Rishi Kapoor’s film "Shreeman Aashique" in 1993. He made his directorial debut with "Om Jai Jagdish," although he didn’t achieve notable success in that field. He has also produced films like "I Didn’t Kill Gandhi" and "Tere Sang."

Moreover, he has hosted television shows such as "The Anupam Kher Show," "People," and "Sawaal 10 Crore Ka." He served as the chairman of NSD for some time and is a successful businessman, having invested in various companies.

Recognized for his hard work and struggles, Anupam Kher received the Padma Shri in 2004 and the Padma Bhushan in 2016. He charges between 5 to 7 crore rupees for a film.

Personal  Life

On the personal front, Anupam Kher has been married twice. His first marriage was to Madhumalti, followed by his second marriage to Kirron Kher. His journey from a small town to achieving international acclaim serves as an inspiration to many aspiring artists.

Naseeruddin Shah: A Unique Icon of Indian Cinema

Naseeruddin Shah, a distinguished alumnus of the 1973 batch of the National School of Drama (NSD), is a prominent name in the world of Indian cinema. Renowned for his talent and ability to delve deeply into every character, Naseeruddin has portrayed a wide range of roles, from serious dramas to comedies. His films, such as "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro," "A Wednesday," and "Masoom," have not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned him immense appreciation from audiences.

Notable Films

Some of his famous works include "Iqbal," "Ishqiya," "Sparsh," "Sarfarosh," "Finding Fanny," "Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyon Aata Hai," "Nishant," "Mirch Masala," "Mandi," "Ardh Satya," "Katha," "Jalwa," and many more. His acting prowess has also been showcased in international films, notably "Monsoon Wedding." He made his film debut with the Pakistani filmmaker Shoaib Mansoor's film "Khuda Kay Liye." His second Pakistani film, "Zinda Bhaag," was selected as the official entry from Pakistan for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 86th Academy Awards.

Directorial Ventures

As a director, Shah has performed in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Lahore with his theater troupe. He has directed plays written by renowned authors such as Lavender Kumar, Ismat Chughtai, and Saadat Hasan Manto.

Personal Life

Shah was first married to Manara Sikri, with whom he has a daughter, Hiba Shah. In the 1970s, he met actress Ratna Pathak and fell in love. They lived together for several years before eventually marrying in 1982.

Naseeruddin Shah's dedication to his craft and his ability to bring depth to his characters make him a beloved figure in the industry. Throughout his career, he has received numerous awards, including three National Film Awards, three Filmfare Awards, and the prestigious Volpi Cup for Best Actor at the Venice Film Festival. The Government of India has honored him with the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan for his contributions to Indian cinema.

Neena Gupta: An Indelible Mark in Bollywood

Neena Gupta, a graduate of the National School of Drama (NSD) in 1980, has left an indelible mark on Bollywood with her remarkable acting skills. Her dedication to the craft has been evident since the early years of her career. In recent years, her commendable roles in films like "Uunchai," "The Last Color," and "Badhaai Ho" are a testament to her talent, as she approaches each character with profound depth.

Career Beginnings

Neena Gupta began her career in 1982 with the film "Yeh Nazdeekiyan." She has since appeared in numerous renowned Hindi films, including "Saath Saath," "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro," "Mandi," "Trikaal," "Wadh," "Masaba Masaba," "Goodbye," "Panga," "Shubh Mangal Saavdhan," "Veere Di Wedding," "Sardar Ka Grandson," "Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar," and "Shiv Shastri Balboa."

Television Success

Her big break on television came in 1985 with the show "Khandaan," leading to memorable performances in series like "Yatra" (1986), "Mirza Ghalib" (1987), "Dard" (1994), "Gumrah" (1995), "Saat Phere: Saloni Ka Safar" (2005), "Meri Biwi Ka Jawab Nahin" (2004), and "Kitni Mohabbat Hai" (2009). Her character in "Jassi Jaisi Koi Nahin" remains a favorite among audiences. Neena Gupta has also garnered acclaim for her roles in the web series "Panchayat" and "Panchayat 2."

She is well-known for her iconic song "Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai," which has cemented her place in the annals of Hindi cinema.

Production and Awards

Neena produced the telefilms "Lajwanti" and "Bazaar Sitaram," winning the National Film Award for Best First Non-Feature Film. In 1990, she received the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Woh Chhokri."

International Work

On an international scale, Neena has acted in films like "Gandhi" (1982), where she played the role of Mahatma Gandhi's niece, as well as "The Divorce" (1988), "Mirza Ghalib" (1989), "In Custody" (1993), and "Cotton Mary" (1999).

Personal Life

In her autobiography, "Sach Kahoon Toh," Neena Gupta recounts significant events from her life, including instances of exploitation she faced during her school years. During the filming of the movie "Baatwara," she met former West Indies cricketer Vivian Richards in Jaipur, and this relationship led to the birth of her daughter, Masaba.

Now in her 65th year, Neena Gupta remains active in her acting career, continuing to inspire many with her talent and resilience.

Om Puri: A Legendary Actor

Om Puri was a masterful actor who captured the hearts of millions through his remarkable performances in both Bollywood and Hollywood. His journey was far from easy; he experienced hardships early in life, including washing dishes at a tea shop at just six years old. His upbringing was supported by a housemaid named Shanti, who helped care for him and his brother's children.

Puri made his cinematic debut in 1976 with the Marathi film "Ghasiram Kotwal." His breakthrough came with "Aarohan" (1982) directed by Shyam Benegal and "Ardh Satya" (1983) by Govind Nihalani. These films not only brought him fame but also earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor.

Over his illustrious career, Om Puri acted in more than 20 Hollywood films, showcasing his versatility. One of his notable appearances was a cameo in Richard Attenborough's acclaimed film "Gandhi."

Notable Films

Some of Om Puri's outstanding films include:

Drohkaal, In Custody, Narasimha, Ghayal, Mritudand, Aastha, Hey Ram, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Gadar, Road to Sangam, The Hangman, Don 2, Ardh Satya, Aakrosh, Makbool, Maqbool, Delhi 6,  Dirty Politics.

Om Puri's profound talent and dedication to his craft have left an enduring legacy in the world of cinema, making him one of the most respected figures in the industry. His ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity continues to inspire future generations of actors.

Pankaj Kapoor

Pankaj Kapoor, a distinguished alumnus of the 1970 batch of the National School of Drama (NSD), has made a significant mark in the Indian entertainment industry. Renowned for his stellar performance in films like Roza, he has showcased his acting prowess across both small and big screens. Pankaj first gained widespread recognition through the television series Karamchand.

He began his cinematic journey with the film Aarohan and has since starred in acclaimed movies such as Gandhi, Roza, Maqbool, and Halla Bol. In addition to acting, Pankaj has also contributed as a writer and director, earning considerable popularity for his versatile talents. He is often seen in comedy-drama films and has portrayed numerous supporting roles.

Pankaj Kapoor spent nearly four years honing his craft in theater and has directed several television serials. Some of his notable films include:

Pankaj Kapoor has delivered remarkable performances in a variety of films, including Aadharshila, Jackpot Do Crore, Aitbaar, Aghaat, Susma, Main Zinda Hoon, Ek Aadmi, Khamosh, Mohan Joshi Hazir Ho!, Ek Ruka Hua Faisla, Hari Handle Bargadar: Share Cropper, Kahan Kahan Se Guzar Gaya, Chhatri Chor, Chamelee Ki Shaadi, Raakh, Ek Doctor Ki Maut, Aakansha, The Burning Season, Ram Jaane, Main Prem Ki Diwani Hoon, Shadyantra, Halla Bol, Dharam, Das, Chala Musaddi Office Office, Toba Tak Singh, and Matrubhoomi: A Nation Without Women. Each of these films showcases his versatility and depth as an actor, solidifying his status in the Indian cinema landscape.

Pankaj Kapoor has not only garnered immense love from audiences but has also received numerous awards for his performances, including:

1989: Best Supporting Actor for Raakh

1991: Special Jury Award for Ek Doctor Ki Maut

2002: Best Actor in a Comic Role for Office Office

2004: Best Supporting Actor for Maqbool

2008: National Award for Best Actor

His contributions to cinema and theater continue to inspire many aspiring actors.

Satish Kaushik

Satish Kaushik was a distinguished alumnus of the National School of Drama (NSD). He got his first acting opportunity in 1983 with the film Masoom, followed by his role in Mandi. By 1987, he had acted in around 10 films, but his real recognition came from the blockbuster Mr. India, where his comic timing as the character "Calendar" earned him widespread acclaim.

He also gained fame for his role as "Pappu Pager" in Deewana Mastana. Satish Kaushik won the Filmfare Award for Best Comic Actor twice: in 1990 for Ram Lakhan and in 1997 for Saajan Chale Sasural. Some of his notable comic characters include Kanshiram in Ram Lakhan, who assists Anupam Kher, and Akshay Kumar's uncle in Mr. and Mrs. Khiladi. In 2017, he captured audiences' hearts as "Bobby Chacha" in the Life OK show May I Come In Madam.

Satish Kaushik directed the blockbuster Tere Naam featuring Salman Khan and Waada starring Arjun Rampal. He also produced films like Kyon Ki, Darna Zaroori Hai, and Bum Bum Bole. Over his 30-year career, he worked in over 100 films as an actor, assistant director, producer, and even ventured into various roles in the television industry.

Notable Films

Some of Satish Kaushik's popular films include:

Some of Satish Kaushik's popular films include Aawargi, Vardi, Joshile, Aag Se Khelenge, Daddy, Prem Pratigya, Ram Lakhan, Ek Naya Rishta, Susman, Kaash, Thikana, Jalwa, Mohabbat, Sagar, Utsav, Vo Saat Din, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, God Tussi Great Ho, Migration, Umar, Shunya, Khullam Khulla Pyar Karein, Kyunki... Main Jhoot Nahin Bolta, Chal Mere Bhai, Had Kar Di Aapne, Dulhan Hum Le Jayenge, Bade Dilwala, Haseena Man Jayegi, Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain, Aa Ab Laut Chalen, Chhota Chetan, Gharwali Baharwali, Pardesi Babu, Vishkanya, Andaz, Aunty No. 1, Swarg Jamai Raja, Taqdeer Ka Tamasha, Patna Shukla, and Kagaz - Kagaz 2.

Personal Life

Satish Kaushik was married to Shashi Kaushik, and they had a son, Shanu, who passed away in 1996. Later, in 2012, the couple welcomed a daughter, Vanshika, through a surrogate mother.

Satish Kaushik bid farewell to the world on March 9, 2023. He was among those artists in Hindi cinema who showcased their talent from acting to directing. His comic timing and dialogue delivery were exceptional, and he left a significant mark even in serious roles.

Alok Nath

Actor Alok Nath hails from Delhi. After completing his school and college education, he developed an interest in acting, which led him to join the Ruchika Theatre Group during college. He then spent three years studying at the National School of Drama, honing his craft.

Alok Nath made his film debut in Gandhi, where he had a small role. He later appeared in the film Kamaagni, showcasing some romantic and intense scenes. Additionally, he played villainous roles in several films, including Vinashak, Shadyantra, and Bol Radha Bol. Alok Nath has made a name for himself in both Bollywood and television, with a career that includes over 140 films and more than 15 TV serials.

Notable Films

Some of Alok Nath's famous films include:

Alok Nath is known for his impressive body of work in both film and television. Some of his notable films include Gandhi, Mashaal, Hum Saath Saath Hain, Kacchi Kali, Pet Pyaar Aur Paap, Jewels, Yeh Woh Manzil Toh Nahin, Kyaamat Se Kyaamat Tak, Mohre, Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!, Aagni, Joshile, Kasam Suhag Ki, Anjaane Rishte, Maine Pyar Kiya, Lekin..., Agneepath, Insaaf Ka Suraj, Dushman, I Mili N Ki Raat, Vivah, and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety. In addition to his film career,

 Alok Nath has been a prominent figure on television, appearing in popular shows such as Rishte-Nate, Darpan, Buniyaad, Bharat Ek Khoj, Talash, Dane Anar Ke, Tara, Imtihan, Kabhi Kabhi, Piya Ke Ghar, Rishte, Vo Rehne Wali Mehlo Ki, Vidai, Ghar Ek Sapna, Do Dil Bandhe Ek Dori Se, Tu Mere Agal-Bagal Hai, and Mete Rang Mein Rangne Wali, as well as Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. 

Controversy

However, his career has not been without controversy; in 2018, during the #MeToo movement, director Vinta Nanda accused him of rape in a Facebook post, which sparked significant discussion in the media and the industry

Alok Nath's career has seen both remarkable achievements and significant controversies, marking him as a notable figure in the Indian entertainment industry.

By Priyanka Yadav

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