famous bollywood personalities real names

Bollywood personalities and their real names

Behind the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, many of our favorite stars have secrets hidden in plain sight - their real names! That's right; many Bollywood personalities have adopted stage names that are different from the names given to them. Let's take a look at some of the most interesting ones

Madhubala - Mumtaz Jehan Begum Dehlavi

Madhubala (1933-1969) was a beloved Indian actress, known as the "Queen of Bollywood" during her active years. Born Mumtaz Jehan Begum Dehlavi, she was one of the most iconic and influential actresses in Indian cinema.

Madhubala's career spanned over two decades, with over 70 films to her credit. She made her debut as a child actress in 1942 and quickly rose to fame with her striking beauty, captivating smile, and impressive acting skills. Some of her most notable films include:

- "Neel Kamal" (1947)

- "Mughal-e-Azam" (1960)

- "Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi" (1958)

- "Howrah Bridge" (1958)

- "Half Ticket" (1962)

Madhubala's life was marked by both success and struggles. She faced health issues, including a hole in her heart, which made filming challenging. Her life was also tumultuous, including a high-profile romance with actor Dilip Kumar.

Despite these challenges, Madhubala's legacy endures. She remains an icon in Indian cinema, celebrated for her talent, beauty, and grace. Her contributions to the film industry continue to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers.

Dilip Kumar - Muhammad Yusuf Khan

Dilip Kumar (1922-2021) was a legendary Indian actor, producer, and philanthropist, widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema. Born Yusuf Khan, he adopted the screen name Dilip Kumar and went on to become a household name in India and beyond.

Dilip Kumar's career spanned over six decades, with iconic performances in over 60 films. Some of his most notable works include:

- "Andaz" (1949)

- "Mughal-e-Azam" (1960)

- "Naya Daur" (1957)

- "Devdas" (1955)

- "Ganga Jamuna" (1961)

- "Ram Aur Shyam" (1967)

- "Shakti" (1982)

- "Karma" (1986)

He was known for his:

- Versatility: Excelled in various genres, from romantic dramas to historical epics.

- Acting style: Brought depth and nuance to his characters.

- Chemistry: Shared iconic on-screen pairings with actresses like Madhubala and Vyjayanthimala.

- Impact: Inspired generations of actors, including Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.

Awards and honors:

- Padma Bhushan (1991)

- Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1994)

- NTR National Award (1997)

- Honorary doctorates from universities worldwide

Philanthropy:

- Supported various social causes, including education and healthcare.

- Worked with the Indian government on initiatives like the National Integration Council.

Legacy:

- Dilip Kumar's contributions to Indian cinema are immeasurable.

- He continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers.

- His iconic performances remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Reena Roy - Saira Ali

Reena Roy is a veteran Indian actress who made a significant impact in Bollywood during the 1970s and 1980s. Born on January 7, 1956, in Mumbai, India, Reena Roy began her acting career at a young age and went on to become one of the most popular actresses of her time.

Rise to Fame:

Reena Roy's breakthrough role came with the 1972 film "Zeenat," followed by success in films like:

- "Jaise Ko Taisa" (1973)

- "Anokha Daan" (1972)

- "Nagin" (1976)

- "Kalicharan" (1976)

She established herself as a leading lady, known for her:

- Graceful performances

- Versatility in playing diverse roles

- Pairing with top actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, and Dharmendra

Notable Films:

- "Aasha" (1980)

- "Apnapan" (1977)

- "Ganga Ki Saugandh" (1978)

- "Prem Tapasya" (1983)

Awards and Recognition:

- Filmfare Nomination for Best Actress for "Nagin" (1976)

- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for "Apnapan" (1977)

Personal Life:

Reena Roy married actor Shatrughan Sinha in 1989 and took a break from acting. She returned to the screen in the 1990s, appearing in character roles and television shows.

Legacy:

Reena Roy's contributions to Bollywood are cherished by fans and industry insiders alike. Her grace, talent, and dedication paved the way for future generations of actresses. Though she may not be actively acting today, her legacy lives on through her iconic films and unforgettable performances.

Mandakini - Yasmeen Joseph

Mandakini is a former Indian actress who made a significant impact in Bollywood during the 1980s. Born as Yasmeen Joseph on July 30, 1963, in Meerut, India, Mandakini began her acting career at a young age and went on to become a household name.

Rise to Fame:

Mandakini's breakthrough role came with the 1985 film "Ram Teri Ganga Maili," directed by Raj Kapoor, which became a massive hit and earned her widespread recognition. She went on to appear in several successful films, including:

- "Apne Apne" (1987)

- "Dance Dance" (1987)

- "Khabardar" (1988)

- "Pyar Ke Naam Qurbaan" (1989)

Notable Films:

- "Lahoo Ke Do Rang" (1988)

- "Jaisi Karni Waisi Bharni" (1989)

- "Nishchaiy" (1992)

Awards and Recognition:

- Filmfare Nomination for Best Actress for "Ram Teri Ganga Maili" (1985)

- Lux New Face of the Year Award (1985)

Personal Life:

Mandakini's personal life has been subject to much speculation and controversy. She married businessman Mukul Mishra in 1990 and has one daughter. After her marriage, she gradually withdrew from the film industry.

Legacy:

Mandakini's contributions to Bollywood are still remembered and cherished by fans. Her grace, beauty, and talent made her a beloved actress of her time. Although she is no longer active in the film industry, her iconic films continue to be celebrated, and her legacy lives on.

Meena Kumari - Mahjabeen Bano

Meena Kumari (1933-1972) was a renowned Indian actress, poet, and singer, widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses in Indian cinema. Born Mahjabeen Bano, she adopted the screen name Meena Kumari and became a legendary figure in Bollywood.

Meena Kumari's career spanned over two decades, with iconic performances in over 90 films. Some of her most notable works include:

- "Baiju Bawra" (1952)

- "Parineeta" (1953)

- "Daera" (1953)

- "Azaad" (1955)

- "Ek Hi Raasta" (1956)

- "Pardesi" (1957)

- "Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam" (1962)

- "Mere Apne" (1971)

- "Pakeezah" (1972)

Awards and Recognition:

- Padma Shri (1965)

- Filmfare Best Actress Award for "Kaajal" (1966)

- Filmfare Best Actress Award for "Pakeezah" (1973)

Poetic Legacy:

Meena Kumari was also a talented poet, writing under the pseudonym "Naaz". Her poetry collection, "Tanha Chand", was published posthumously.

Personal Life:

Meena Kumari's life was marked by personal struggles, including a troubled marriage and health issues. She passed away on March 31, 1972, at the age of 39.

Legacy:

Meena Kumari's contributions to Indian cinema are immeasurable. She is remembered for her:

- Versatility as an actress

- Poetic talent

- Timeless performances

- Enduring legacy

Meena Kumari's impact on Bollywood continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers. Her iconic films and poetry remain an integral part of Indian cultural heritage.

Ajit - Hamid Ali Khan

Ajit (1922-1998) was a legendary Indian actor, known for his iconic roles in Hindi cinema. Born Hamid Ali Khan, he adopted the screen name Ajit and went on to become a household name in India.

Ajit's career spanned over four decades, with memorable performances in over 100 films. Some of his most notable works include:

- Nastik (1954)

- Bada Bhai (1955)

- Naya Daur (1957)

- Mughal-e-Azam (1960)

- Zanjeer (1973)

- Sholay (1975)

- Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)

Ajit's impact on Bollywood is still celebrated today. He is remembered for his:

- Unique dialogue delivery style

- Iconic villainous roles

- Charismatic on-screen presence

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

Ajit's legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers. His iconic performances remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Jagdeep - Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jaffrey

Jagdeep (1939-2020) was a veteran Indian actor and comedian, best known for his iconic roles in Hindi cinema. Born Syed Ishtiaq Ahmed Jafri, he adopted the screen name Jagdeep and went on to become a beloved figure in Indian entertainment.

Jagdeep's career spanned over six decades, with memorable performances in over 400 films. Some of his most notable works include:

- "Bhabhi" (1957)

- "Mere Geeton Ka Singer" (1958)

- "Purana Mandir" (1984)

- "3 Idiots" (2009)

- "Jab We Met" (2007)

- "Om Shanti Om" (2007)

Jagdeep's impact on Bollywood is still celebrated today. He is remembered for his:

- Unique comedic timing

- Iconic roles in cult classics

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors and comedians

Jagdeep's legacy continues to live on through his iconic performances, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Jayant - Zakaria Khan

Jayant (1915-1975) was a veteran Indian actor, who appeared in numerous Hindi films during the 1950s and 1960s. He was known for his distinctive voice, tall stature, and imposing screen presence.

Jayant's career spanned over two decades, with notable performances in films like:

- "Daag" (1952)

- "Aar Paar" (1954)

- "Mr. & Mrs. 55" (1955)

- "Devdas" (1955)

- "Naya Daur" (1957)

- "Mughal-e-Azam" (1960)

Jayant's impact on Bollywood is still remembered today. He is recalled for his:

- Authoritative voice and demeanor

- Pioneering work in early Indian cinema

- Contribution to the development of Hindi films

- Iconic roles in classic movies

Jayant's legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers. His iconic performances remain an integral part of Indian cinematic history.

Johnny Walker - Badruddin Jamaluddin Kazi

Johnny Walker (1926-2003) was a veteran Indian actor and comedian, who appeared in over 300 films during his long career. He was known for his unique mannerisms, facial expressions, and comedic timing.

Walker's early life was marked by struggles, and he began his career as a bus conductor. However, he eventually transitioned to acting, making his debut in the 1950s.

Some of his most notable films include:

- "Baazi" (1951)

- "Aar Paar" (1954)

- "Munna Bhai S.S.C." (1956)

- "Chori Chori" (1956)

- "Johnny Walker" (1957)

- "Mere Geeton Ka Singer" (1958)

Walker's impact on Bollywood is still celebrated today. He is remembered for his:

- Unique comedic style

- Iconic roles in classic films

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors and comedians

Walker's legacy continues to live on through his iconic performances, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Shyama – Khurshid Akhtar

Shyama (1935-2017) was a veteran Indian actress, who appeared in over 150 films during her long career. She was known for her beauty, talent, and versatility, and worked in both Hindi and Punjabi cinema.

Some of Shyama's most notable films include:

- "Barsat" (1949)

- "Dastaan" (1950)

- "Sazaa" (1951)

- "Aar Paar" (1954)

- "Shree 420" (1955)

- "Do Kaliyaan" (1968)

- "Samaj Ko Badal Dalo" (1970)

Shyama's impact on Bollywood is still remembered today. She is recalled for her:

- Graceful performances

- Iconic roles in classic films

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors

Shyama's legacy continues to live on through her iconic performances, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Sridevi - Shree Amma Yanger Ayyapan

Sridevi (1963-2018) was a beloved Indian actress, known as the "Queen of Indian Cinema". She had a career spanning over four decades, appearing in films in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.

Some of Sridevi's most notable films include:

- "Himmatwala" (1983)

- "Tohfa" (1984)

- "Mr. India" (1987)

- "Chandni" (1989)

- "Lamhe" (1991)

- "Gumrah" (1993)

- "Laadla" (1994)

- "Judaai" (1997)

- "English Vinglish" (2012)

- "Mom" (2017)

Sridevi's impact on Bollywood is still celebrated today. She is remembered for her:

- Versatility as an actress

- Graceful dance moves

- Iconic performances

- Inspiring generations of actors

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

Sridevi's legacy continues to live on through her iconic performances, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Jaya Pradha - Lalita Rani Ravanam

Jaya Prada (born 1962) is a veteran Indian actress and politician, who has appeared in over 200 films in multiple languages, including Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam. She is known for her captivating performances, graceful dance moves, and iconic roles in Indian cinema.

Some of Jaya Prada's most notable films include:

- "Anthuleni Katha" (1976)

- "Sargam" (1979)

- "Sharaabi" (1984)

- "Tohfa" (1984)

- "Himmatwala" (1983)

- "Mawaali" (1983)

- "Kanchivaram" (2008)

- "Krishnamma Kalipindi Iddarini" (2014)

Jaya Prada's impact on Bollywood is still celebrated today. She is remembered for her:

- Graceful performances

- Iconic roles in classic films

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors

- Political career and social work

Jaya Prada's legacy continues to live on through her iconic performances, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Raaj Kumar - Kulbushan Pandit

Raaj Kumar (1926-1996) was a veteran Indian actor, who appeared in over 70 films during his long career. He was known for his distinctive voice, dignified screen presence, and iconic performances in Bollywood classics.

Some of Raaj Kumar's most notable films include:

- "Raja Harishchandra" (1954)

- "Mere Mehboob" (1963)

- "Paigham" (1959)

- "Dil Ek Mandir" (1963)

- "Waqt" (1965)

- "Hamraaz" (1967)

- "Neel Kamal" (1968)

- "Kudrat" (1981)

- "Lal Baadshah" (1994)

Raaj Kumar's impact on Bollywood is still remembered today. He is recalled for his:

- Unique voice and dialogue delivery

- Authoritative screen presence

- Iconic roles in classic films

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors

Raaj Kumar's legacy continues to live on through his iconic performances, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Kishore Kumar - Abhas Kumar Ganguly

Kishore Kumar (1929-1987) was a legendary Indian playback singer, actor, music director, and producer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers in Indian cinema, with a career spanning over four decades.

Kishore Kumar's impact on Bollywood is immense. He is remembered for his:

- Versatile singing voice, ranging from romantic ballads to energetic dance numbers

- Iconic songs, such as "Mere Sapnon Ki Rani", "Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas", and "O Mere Dil Ke Chain"

- Acting career, with notable films like "Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi" and "Half Ticket"

- Music direction and production work in several films

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

Kishore Kumar's legacy continues to inspire new generations of singers, actors, and music directors. His iconic songs remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Some of Kishore Kumar's most notable films as an actor include:

- "Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi" (1958)

- "Half Ticket" (1962)

- "Mr. X in Bombay" (1964)

- "Shreeman Funtoosh" (1965)

- "Dilli Ka Thug" (1966)

Manoj Kumar - Harikrishna Giri Goswami

Manoj Kumar (born 1937) is a veteran Indian actor, director, and producer, known for his patriotic and socially relevant films. He is also known as "Bharat Kumar" for his patriotic themes.

Some of Manoj Kumar's most notable films include:

- "Shaheed" (1965)

- "Upkar" (1967)

- "Purab Aur Paschim" (1970)

- "Roti Kapda Aur Makaan" (1974)

- "Kranti" (1981)

- "Clerk" (1989)

Manoj Kumar's impact on Bollywood is significant. He is remembered for his:

- Patriotic films, which often highlighted social issues

- Direction and production work in several films

- Acting career, with iconic roles in films like "Shaheed" and "Upkar"

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers

Manoj Kumar's legacy continues to be celebrated through his iconic films, which remain relevant today.

Jeetendra - Ravi Kapoor

Jeetendra (born 1942) is a veteran Indian actor, producer, and director, known for his energetic and charismatic on-screen presence. He is also known as the "Jumping Jack" for his iconic dance moves.

Some of Jeetendra's most notable films include:

- "Farz" (1967)

- "Jigri Dost" (1969)

- "Humjoli" (1970)

- "Banphool" (1971)

- "Dharam Veer" (1977)

- "Mein Teri Hoon" (1984)

- "Tohfa" (1984)

- "Sanjog" (1985)

Jeetendra's impact on Bollywood is significant. He is remembered for his:

- Energetic dance numbers and iconic songs

- Memorable performances in films like "Farz" and "Dharam Veer"

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors and dancers

- Successful production ventures, including the TV show "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi"

Jeetendra's legacy continues to be celebrated through his iconic films and dance numbers, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Sanjeev Kumar - Harihar Jethalal Jariwala

Sanjeev Kumar (1938-1985) was a talented Indian actor, known for his incredible versatility and range. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema.

Some of Sanjeev Kumar's most notable films include:

- "Khilona" (1970)

- "Mere Apne" (1971)

- "Sholay" (1975)

- "Aandhi" (1975)

- "Arjun Pandit" (1976)

- "Mausam" (1975)

- "Patience" (1979)

- "Angoor" (1982)

Sanjeev Kumar's impact on Bollywood is immense. He is remembered for his:

- Exceptional acting talent, which earned him numerous awards and nominations

- Versatility in playing a wide range of roles, from comedy to drama to romance

- Iconic performances in films like "Sholay" and "Aandhi"

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers

Sanjeev Kumar's legacy continues to be celebrated through his iconic films, which remain etched in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Rekha - Bhanurekha Gemini Ganesan

Rekha (born 1954) is a veteran Indian actress, known for her captivating performances and timeless beauty. She has appeared in over 180 films during her career spanning five decades.

Some of Rekha's most notable films include:

- "Sawan Bhadon" (1970)

- "Khubsoorat" (1980)

- "Umrao Jaan" (1981)

- "Khiladion Ka Khiladi" (1988)

- "Phool Bane Angaray" (1991)

- "Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi" (1996)

- "Dil To Pagal Hai" (1997)

- "Koi... Mil Gaya" (2003)

- "Parineeta" (2005)

- "Lajja" (2001)

Rekha's impact on Bollywood is significant. She is remembered for her:

- Graceful performances

- Iconic roles in films like "Umrao Jaan" and "Khubsoorat"

- Versatility in playing a wide range of characters

- Timeless beauty and style

- Inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers

Rekha's legacy continues to be celebrated through her iconic films and enduring presence in Indian cinema.

Akshay Kumar - Rajiv Bhatia

Akshay Kumar (born 1967) is a veteran Indian actor, producer, and martial artist, known for his action-packed performances and versatility. He has appeared in over 150 films during his career spanning three decades.

Some of Akshay Kumar's most notable films include:

- "Khiladi" (1992)

- "Yeh Dillagi" (1994)

- "Sabse Bada Khiladi" (1995)

- "Hera Pheri" (2000)

- "Ajnabee" (2001)

- "Aitraaz" (2004)

- "Waqt" (2005)

- "Namastey London" (2007)

- "Singh Is Kinng" (2008)

- "Airlift" (2016)

- "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha" (2017)

- "Pad Man" (2018)

- "Mission Mangal" (2019)

Akshay Kumar's impact on Bollywood is significant. He is remembered for his:

- Action-packed performances

- Versatility in playing a wide range of roles

- Socially relevant films like "Toilet: Ek Prem Katha" and "Pad Man"

- Production ventures, including the TV show "Khatron Ke Khiladi"

- Inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers

Akshay Kumar's legacy continues to be celebrated through his iconic films and enduring presence in Indian cinema.

Kamal Haasan - Parthasarathy Srinivasan

Kamal Haasan (born 1954) is a veteran Indian actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, known for his versatile and iconic performances. He has appeared in over 200 films during his career spanning five decades.

Some of Kamal Haasan's most notable films include:

- "Kaalathur Kannamma" (1960)

- "Apoorva Raagangal" (1975)

- "16 Vayathinile" (1977)

- "Sigappu Rojakkal" (1978)

- "Rajapaarvai" (1981)

- "Moondram Pirai" (1982)

- "Sagara Sangamam" (1983)

- "Guru" (1985)

- "Nayakan" (1987)

- "Aadmi" (1993)

- "Kuruthipunal" (1995)

- "Chachi 420" (1997)

- "Hey Ram" (2000)

- "Anbe Sivam" (2003)

- "Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu" (2006)

- "Dasavathaaram" (2008)

- "Vishwaroopam" (2013)

Kamal Haasan's impact on Bollywood is immense. He is remembered for his:

- Versatile acting, directing, and producing skills

- Iconic performances in films like "Nayakan" and "Moondram Pirai"

- Socially relevant films like "Anbe Sivam" and "Vishwaroopam"

- Contribution to Indian cinema's golden era

- Inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers

Kamal Haasan's legacy continues to be celebrated through his iconic films and enduring presence in Indian cinema.

Arjun - Feroz Khan

Arjun (born 1964) is a veteran Indian actor, director, and producer, known for his work in Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu cinema. He has appeared in over 150 films during his career spanning four decades.

Some of Arjun's most notable films include:

- "Nenjangal" (1982)

- "Vedham Pudhithu" (1987)

- "Solaikuyil" (1989)

- "Gentleman" (1993)

- "Jai Hind" (1994)

- "Karnaa" (1995)

- "Mudhalvan" (1999)

- "Gilli" (2003)

- "Bhagavathi" (2002)

- "Thutta Mutta" (2015)

Arjun's impact on South Indian cinema is significant. He is remembered for his:

- Versatile acting and directing skills

- Iconic performances in films like "Gentleman" and "Mudhalvan"

- Socially relevant films like "Vedham Pudhithu" and "Jai Hind"

- Contribution to Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu cinema

- Inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers

Arjun's legacy continues to be celebrated through his iconic films and enduring presence in South Indian cinema.

Allah Rakha Rahman (A.R. Rahman) - Dileep Kumar

A.R. Rahman (born 1967) is an Indian music composer, singer, and music producer. He is one of the most successful and influential musicians in Indian cinema, having composed music for over 150 films across various languages.

Some of A.R. Rahman's most notable works include:

- "Roja" (1992)

- "Kadhalan" (1994)

- "Rangeela" (1995)

- "Bombay" (1995)

- "Lagaan" (2001)

- "Taare Zameen Par" (2007)

- "Slumdog Millionaire" (2008)

- "Rockstar" (2011)

- "Kochadaiiyaan" (2014)

- "Mersal" (2017)

A.R. Rahman's impact on Indian music is immense. He is remembered for his:

- Soulful and innovative compositions

- Iconic soundtracks like "Roja" and "Lagaan"

- Versatility in blending traditional and contemporary styles

- Collaboration with international artists and films

- Inspiring generations of musicians and music lovers

A.R. Rahman's legacy continues to be celebrated through his timeless music and enduring influence on Indian cinema.