Saurabh Shukla is a celebrated Indian actor, director, and screenwriter known for his powerful performances and contributions to Indian cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, Shukla has worked in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and even international films, establishing himself as one of the most versatile and respected figures in the industry.
He is best recognized for his roles in Satya (1998), Nayak (2001), Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), and Barfi! (2012), Jolly LLB (2013), and Raid (2018). His nuanced performances, coupled with his writing and direction, have made him an iconic name in Indian cinema.
Bio
| Personal Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Saurabh Shukla |
| Date of Birth | 5 March 1963 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 62 years |
| Birthplace | Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Screenwriter |
| Spouse | Barnali Ray Shukla (Filmmaker) |
| Children | 1 son, 1 daughter (names not public) |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Residence | Andheri West, Mumbai |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Weight | 92 kg (181 lbs) |
| Eye Colour | Dark Brown |
| Hair Colour | Salt & Pepper (semi-bald) |
Early Life and Education
Saurabh Shukla was born in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, into a family of musicians. His mother, Dr. Jogamaya Shukla, was India’s first female tabla player, while his father was a vocalist from the Agra Gharana. The family later moved to Delhi when Shukla was just two years old.
School/College: Graduated from S.G.T.B. Khalsa College, Delhi.
During his childhood, his parents encouraged him and his brother to watch at least four films a week, nurturing his passion for cinema.
Initially drawn to theatre, he joined the National School of Drama (NSD) Repertoire Company in 1991.
Career Journey
Theatre and Early Television
Shukla began his theatre career in the mid-1980s, performing in classics like Ghashiram Kotwal, Hayavadana, and Look Back in Anger. He also appeared on TV in Tehkikaat (1994) as Gopi, Vijay Anand’s sidekick.
Bollywood Breakthrough
His first major film role came in Shekhar Kapur’s cult classic Bandit Queen (1994), where he also worked alongside actress Seema Biswas. This project marked his entry into cinema.
In 1998, he co-wrote the script for Ram Gopal Varma’s Satya with Anurag Kashyap and portrayed the iconic role of Kallu Mama, a gangster. The film’s success established him as both an actor and a writer, winning the Star Screen Award for Best Screenplay.
Iconic Films
Over the years, Shukla acted in critically acclaimed and commercial hits including:
Mohabbatein (2000)
Nayak (2001)
Yuva (2004)
Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006)
Barfi! (2012) – Nominated for Best Supporting Actor
Jolly LLB (2013) – Won National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor
Jolly LLB 2 (2017)
Raid (2018)
Chhalaang (2020)
Drishyam 2 (2022)
He also appeared internationally in the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire (2008) as Constable Srinivas.
Awards and Recognition
National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor – Jolly LLB (2014)
Screen Award for Best Supporting Actor – Jolly LLB
Zee Cine Award for Best Screenplay – Calcutta Mail (2003, nomination)
Some Lesser-Known Facts
Born into a family of musicians, with his mother being the first female tabla player in India.
Was a classmate of Seema Biswas at the National School of Drama.
Initially, I wanted to become a film director rather than an actor.
Appeared in more than 150 films across languages.
Loves reading, writing, and watching films in his leisure time.
Despite his serious roles, he is deeply passionate about comic theatre, including plays like 2 to Tango, 3 to Jive.
Filmography Highlights
Bandit Queen (1994), Seema Biswas played the lead role of Phoolan Devi.
Satya (1998)
Mohabbatein (2000)
Nayak (2001)
Yuva (2004)
Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006)
Barfi! (2012)
Jolly LLB (2013)
Kick (2014), PK (2014)
Raid (2018)
Chhalaang (2020)
Drishyam 2 (2022)
Raid 2 (2025, upcoming)
Jolly LLB 3 (2025, upcoming)
Latest News on Saurabh Shukla (2025)
Confirmed in Jolly LLB 3: He returns as Justice Sunderlal Tripathi in the much-awaited Jolly LLB 3, joining Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi. This iconic role had earlier earned him the prestigious National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor.
Upcoming project Maalik: Shukla is playing Minister Shankar Singh in the political drama Maalik, showcasing his trademark intensity.
Web Series Presence: He was last seen in Bindiya Ke Bahubali (2025) on Amazon MX Player, expanding his digital footprint.
