Sanjay Khan, born Shah Abbas Ali Khan on January 3, 1941, in Bangalore, India, hails from a culturally rich family with Afghan and Persian ancestry. Growing up in a household that valued arts and creativity, Sanjay was exposed to storytelling and performance from a young age. His father, Sadiq Ali Khan, and mother, Bibi Fatima Begum, raised seven children, several of whom went on to make their mark in the Indian film industry.
Sanjay’s siblings include the iconic actor Feroz Khan and director Akbar Khan, making the family a notable creative hub. Educated at Bishop Cotton Boys’ School and St. Germain High School, Sanjay left formal education early to pursue his passion for films in Mumbai.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Shah Abbas Ali Khan |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 3, 1941 |
| Place of Birth | Bangalore, India |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 11 inches |
| Notable Works | The Sword of Tipu Sultan, Dosti, Dus Lakh |
| Family | Wife: Zarine Katrak; Children: Zayed Khan, Farah Khan Ali, Simone Arora, Sussanne Khan |
| Siblings | Feroz Khan, Akbar Khan |
| Net Worth | Estimated $15 million – $57 million |
| Awards | National Citizen’s Award |
| Business Venture | Golden Palms Hotel & Spa |
| Social Media | Low profile, limited presence |
| Current Status | Retired, writer, mentor |
Entry into Bollywood and Early Success
Sanjay’s first brush with cinema came in the early 1960s. His debut was in the war drama Haqeeqat (1964), where his performance attracted attention. The same year, he played a lead role in Dosti, a film that won national acclaim and helped establish him as a promising actor.
Over the next decade, Sanjay featured in numerous films, including Dus Lakh, Ek Phool Do Mali, and Intaquam. He was admired for his versatility—effortlessly transitioning from romantic leads to action roles. His charming screen presence made him a favorite among audiences of that era.
Working with Family: The Khan Brothers’ Bond
Sanjay often collaborated with his brothers, especially Feroz Khan. Together, they starred in hit movies such as Mela and Nagin, which became memorable successes. Their camaraderie and shared vision enriched their on-screen chemistry and drew fans.
Beyond acting, the Khan brothers supported each other’s creative ventures. Feroz’s directorial projects and Sanjay’s acting or producing roles often overlapped, making them one of Bollywood’s notable sibling partnerships.
Shift to Direction and Production
By the late 1970s, Sanjay expanded his horizons behind the camera. He directed and produced films such as Chandi Sona (1977) and Abdullah (1980). This phase highlighted his storytelling ability and command over production, allowing him to create larger-scale cinematic projects.
His last directorial film was Kala Dhanda Goray Log in 1986. Afterward, he gradually moved away from films to focus on television and business.
Television Pioneer with Historical Dramas
Sanjay Khan became a household name with the television epic The Sword of Tipu Sultan in the early 1990s. He not only produced and directed the show but also played the titular role, portraying the legendary ruler with depth and intensity.
The series was widely acclaimed for its grandeur and storytelling and is considered a milestone in Indian TV history. Sanjay followed this success with other historical and mythological series like The Great Maratha, Jai Hanuman, and 1857 Kranti, setting a benchmark for epic television productions.
The Fire Tragedy and Remarkable Recovery
During the filming of The Sword of Tipu Sultan in 1989, tragedy struck when a devastating fire broke out on set. Over 50 people lost their lives, and Sanjay himself suffered severe burns covering over 60% of his body.
His road to recovery was long and painful, involving more than 70 surgeries and months of hospitalization, including treatment abroad. Despite immense physical and emotional challenges, Sanjay displayed extraordinary resilience by completing the series and returning to work.
Personal Life and Family
Sanjay Khan married Zarine Katrak in 1966, and they have four children together: daughters Farah Khan Ali, Simone Arora, and Sussanne Khan, all successful in creative fields, and son Zayed Khan, who pursued a career in acting.
Before Zarine, Sanjay had a brief marriage to Bollywood actress Zeenat Aman. The marriage ended amid difficulties, but both have maintained respect for each other publicly.
Physical Appearance and Lifestyle
Standing about 5 feet 11 inches tall, Sanjay Khan has a commanding presence. His expressive brown eyes and salt-and-pepper hair contribute to a dignified and charismatic appearance that audiences remember fondly.
Away from the screen, Sanjay enjoys horse riding, reading, and spending quality time with his family. He prefers a private life, with limited social media presence, occasionally sharing personal reflections or updates.
Business Ventures and Entrepreneurship
Beyond acting and directing, Sanjay Khan has shown business acumen. In 1997, he launched the Golden Palms Hotel & Spa in Bangalore, which quickly gained recognition as a luxury resort known for its lush surroundings and excellent hospitality.
He also proposed a large theme park near Agra, a project estimated at ₹10,000 crore, blending entertainment with India’s rich cultural heritage. While ambitious, the theme park remains under development.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Sanjay Khan’s net worth is estimated between $15 million to $57 million (approximately ₹110 to ₹415 crore). His earnings span acting, producing, directing, and business ventures.
Despite his wealth, Sanjay is known for his grounded personality and philanthropic interests, often emphasizing family and humility in interviews.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Sanjay Khan has received several accolades. Notably, he was honored with the National Citizen’s Award for his contribution to Indian cinema and television.
His work in pioneering historical TV dramas and overcoming personal adversity has earned him widespread respect in the entertainment community.
Legacy and Influence
Sanjay Khan’s influence on Indian entertainment is significant. He is remembered not only as a versatile actor but also as a visionary director and producer who helped shape historical dramas on television.
His family continues his creative legacy, contributing to Bollywood and design industries. Sanjay’s perseverance and dedication remain inspirational to aspiring actors and filmmakers.
Current Life and Future Outlook
Now in his 80s, Sanjay Khan lives a quieter, more private life. He has turned to writing and mentoring younger generations in the arts. His autobiography, The Best Mistakes of My Life, offers candid reflections on his personal and professional journey.
Though retired from active acting, Sanjay’s legacy endures, inspiring many with his story of passion, resilience, and creativity.
FAQ’S
Who is Sanjay Khan?
Sanjay Khan is an Indian actor, director, and producer known for his work in Bollywood films and pioneering historical TV dramas like The Sword of Tipu Sultan.
What are some notable films of Sanjay Khan?
He gained fame through films like Dosti, Dus Lakh, Ek Phool Do Mali, and Intaquam, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
What tragedy did Sanjay Khan face during his career?
In 1989, a devastating fire broke out on the set of The Sword of Tipu Sultan, causing severe burns to Sanjay and tragically killing over 50 crew members.
Who are Sanjay Khan’s family members?
He is married to Zarine Katrak and has four children, including actor Zayed Khan and well-known designers Farah Khan Ali, Simone Arora, and Sussanne Khan.
What is Sanjay Khan’s current focus?
Now retired from acting, Sanjay focuses on writing, mentoring, and maintaining a quiet family life, continuing to inspire with his autobiography and life story.
