Kader Khan, born on 22 October 1937 in Kabul, Afghanistan, was a multifaceted talent who left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. An Afghan-Canadian-Indian film actor, script and dialogue writer, he was a powerhouse of creativity and intellect. Before his film career took off, Khan was a civil engineering professor at M.H. Saboo Siddik College in Mumbai. His academic background and command over languages laid the foundation for his exceptional writing and acting skills.

Khan made his acting debut in 1973 with the film Daag, playing a prosecuting attorney opposite Rajesh Khanna. His talent was quickly recognised, leading to a prolific acting career with over 300 Hindi and Urdu films. Not just a gifted actor, Khan was also a master screenwriter, contributing dialogues to more than 250 films. One of his early breakthroughs came with Roti (1974), for which he was paid a then-record sum of ₹121,000, thanks to the encouragement of Rajesh Khanna.

Known for his versatility, Khan worked across genres including comedy, drama, romance, and action. He became a familiar face in Indian households, particularly through his collaborations with stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Jeetendra, Govinda, and Anil Kapoor. His dynamic roles were often complemented by his memorable partnerships with fellow comedians like Asrani, Shakti Kapoor, and Johnny Lever. He also frequently shared screen space with iconic villains such as Amrish Puri and Prem Chopra, showcasing his range as a performer.

Beyond cinema, Khan’s personal life reflected his deep-rooted values and cultural identity. A Pashtun from the Kakar tribe, his upbringing was enriched by his father's scholarly influence. His family had a tradition of education and public service, and this heritage echoed in Khan’s own contributions to the arts and society.

Kader Khan passed away on 31 December 2018 in Canada after suffering from supranuclear palsy, a degenerative disease. His funeral was held in Mississauga, and he was laid to rest in Brampton. His legacy continues to inspire generations, bridging cultures through the universal language of cinema.