Anupam Shyam was one of the finest actors of his era, known for his commanding screen presence, characteristic looks, and intense performances. Some of his best known films include “Bandit Queen,” “Sardari Begum,” “Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin,” and “Bawandar,” as well as serials like “Amma and Family,” “Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya,” and many more.
Early Life
Anupam Shyam Ojha was born on September 20, 1957, in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh. He was a distinguished Indian actor renowned for his versatility and powerful performances in film and television. His father, Radheshyam Ojha, was a local businessman or farmer (?) while his mother was a homemaker. He had a younger brother, Anurag Ojha. Shyam completed his schooling at G.I.C. Pratapgarh. He later attended Ram Manohar Lohia University in Faizabad. His passion for acting led him to Bhartendu Academy of Dramatic Arts in Lucknow, where he studied from 1983 to 1985. In 1987, he graduated from the National School of Drama in Delhi, refining his theatrical skills.
Shyam’s acting career began with theatre in Lucknow and continued to Delhi after his graduation from NSD. He debuted on television with Amaravathi Ki Kahaniya in 1992, marking his entry into the entertainment industry. His theatre background helped him secure roles in television and films.
Anupam Shyam In Films
Shyam made his debut with Bernardo Bertolucci’s “Little Buddha” in 1993. The same year he apeared in Shekhar Kapoor‘s “Bandit Queen (1994),” where he portrayed the character of Ghanshyam Baba. He had a great working relationship with Mahesh Bhatt who cast him regularly in his films. He worked in Bhatt’s “Dastak (1996),” “Tamanna (1998),” and “Zakham (1998).” Shyam also acted in Bhatt’s “Dushman (1998),” directed by Tanuja Chandra.
In his early career, he also acted in films like Shyam Benegals “Sardari Begum,” Sudhir Mishra’s “Is Raat Ki Subah Nahin (1997),” Govind Nihlani‘s “Hazaar Chaurasi Ki Maa (1998),” and “Takshak (1999),” Ram Gopal Verma’s “Satya (1998),” and Mani Ratnam’s “Dil se (1998).”
Some of his other film include “Bawandar (2000),” “Dil Pe Mat Le Yaar!! (2000),” “Lagaan (2001),” “Kasoor (2001),” “Lajja (2001),” “Paap (2003),” “Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi (2003),” “Bunty Aur Babli (2005),” “Mangal Pandey (2005),” “Parzania (2005),” “Khoya Khoya Chand (2007),” “Slumdog Millionaire (2008),” “Wanted (2009),” “Rakhta Charitra (2010),” “Amma Ki Boli (2021),” and many more.
Anupam Shyam On TV
After his TV debut in 1992, Shyam followed it with Afsaane (1993), and “Amma and Family (1995)” and “Itihas” in 1996. He also acted in the TV movie “Nazarana” and Sanjay Khan’s epic series “Jai Hanuman.”
Shyam’s acting prowess was evident through his portrayal of complex characters, often with a villainous edge, that left a lasting impact on audiences. He is perhaps best remembered for his role as Thakur Sajjan Singh in the popular television series “Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya,” which aired on STAR Plus. His performance not only won him critical acclaim but also the love of viewers, who appreciated his ability to bring depth to a negative character.
Some of his other serials include “Astitva Ek Pehchaan,” Rishtey,” “Kyunki, Jeena Issi Ka Naam Hai,” “Hum Ne Li Hai… Shapath (2013),” “Doli Armaano Ki (2014),” “Chidiya Ghar (2016),” “Krishna Chali London,” and many more.
Personal Life
Beyond the screen, Anupam Shyam was a man of principle, actively supporting social causes. He also ran an NGO that works for needy students.
Sadly, the film and television industry lost this gem of an actor prematurely. On August 8, 2021, Anupam Shyam passed away due to kidney failure at the age of 63. His demise left a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy continues through the memorable characters he brought to life.
Anupam Shyam’s life and work remain an inspiration for aspiring actors and a reminder of the power of dedication and passion in the craft of acting. He will be remembered not just for the roles he played but also for the lives he touched through his art and humanitarian efforts.
Anupam Shyam on IMDB
