Shahnawaz Pradhan is an Indian television and film actor. He is known for playing the role of ‘Nanda Baba’ in the Indian television epic series “Shri Krishna.”
Wiki/Biography
Shahnawaz Pradhan was born on Friday, 6 December 1963 (age 56 years; as in 2019) in Raj Khariar, Nuapada, Orissa. His zodiac sign is Sagittarius.
Shahnawaz Pradhan in childhood
When Shahnawaz was 7 years old, his family shifted to Raipur; as his father was not well and doctor’s recommended him to visit Raipur for treatment. He did his schooling from Raipur’s Government High School. While in class 7, he got selected for a school play and gave his first stage performance. Shahnawaz enjoyed acting in the play and subsequently joined a few local drama groups. After completing his schooling, he went to Raipur’s Ravishankar University to pursue his graduation. In 1984, Habib Tanveer (Theatre Artist) joined his college as a visiting professor for one year. He collected the students to prepare for the play and by the time the play ended, Tanveer offered Pradhan to join his theatre group, “Naya Theatre.” Shahnawaz joined the group and did theatre for 5 years.
Shahnawaz Pradhan in one of his plays
He travelled across India doing plays like “Charandas Chor,” “Lala Shohrat Rai,” “Hirma Ki Amar Kahani,” and “Mitti Ki Gaadi.” In 1991, he left theatre and moved to Mumbai to pursue his career in acting.
Shahnawaz Pradhan in his younger days
Physical Appearance
Height (approx.): 5′ 5″
Hair Colour: Black
Eye Colour: Black
Family & Caste
Shahnawaz Pradhan belongs to a Muslim Family. Not much is known about his parents. He is the only child of his parents. Shahnawaz is married and has a daughter.
Shahnawaz Pradhan with his daughter
Career
Shahnawaz Pradhan started his acting career with Doordarshan’s show, “Jan Se Jantantra Tak.” He came into the limelight after playing the role of ‘Nand Baba’ in the epic television series “Shri Krishna.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Shri Krishna
Next, he played the role of ‘Sindbad the Sailor’ in the popular fantasy television series “Alif Laila.” He has also appeared in the TV serials “Byomkesh Bakshi (TV series),” “Tota Weds Maina,” “Bandhan Saat Janmon Ka,” and “Suite life of karan and kabir.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Suite Life of Karan and Kabir
In 2015, Shahnawaz gained huge popularity after playing the role of ‘Hafiz Saeed’ in the Bollywood film “Phantom.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan as Hafiz Saeed in Phantom
Shahnawaz has featured in many Hindi films, like “Bangistan,” “Raees,” and “Mirzapur.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Bangistan
In addition to TV serials and films, he has also featured in many advertisements, like “Century Plywood,” “Honda Activa 4G,” and “Droom.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Century Plywood advertisement
Favourite Things
- Actor: Amitabh Bachchan
- Beverage: Tea
- Colour: White
Facts/Trivia
- His hobbies include reading and travelling.
- It was Shahnawaz Pradhan who lent his voice for the character of ‘Sugreev’ in the TV series “Hanuman” (2005).
- In August 2015, Shahnawaz went underground after playing the role of ‘Hafiz Saeed’ in the Bollywood film “Phantom.” Reportedly, the Lahore High Court banned the film in Pakistan after a petition was filed by Saeed. Therefore, the makers of the film decided to keep Shahnawaz underground as a precautionary measure.
