Rajpal Yadav

Rajpal Yadav
Born	16 March 1971 Kundra, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Nationality	Indian
Occupation	Actor, Comedian
Years active	1997–present
Education	Graduate
Alma mater	Rohilkhand University Bhartendu Natya Academy National School of Drama
Spouse	Radha Yadav
Children	2 daughters
Parents	Naurang Yadav (father)

Rajpal Naurang Yadav (born 16 March 1971) is an Indian actor widely known for his comic timing and character roles in Hindi cinema. He gained nationwide popularity through films such as Hungama, Phir Hera Pheri, Chup Chup Ke, Dhol, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa, where his portrayal of Chhote Pandit became iconic.

Latest News

• The trailer of Ardh has been released, featuring Rajpal Yadav in the role of a struggling actor navigating personal and professional challenges.
• He reprised his popular role of Chhote Pandit in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, which was released on 6 May 2022.

Early Life and Education

Rajpal Yadav was born in a small village named Kundra in Shahjahanpur district, Uttar Pradesh. He grew up in a modest household and faced financial difficulties during his childhood. Despite challenges, he completed his schooling at Ordnance Clothing Factory School in Uttar Pradesh.

He pursued higher education in Hindi literature from Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Rohilkhand University, Bareilly. To refine his acting skills, he completed a diploma in drama from Bhartendu Natya Academy, Lucknow (1992–1994), and later graduated from the National School of Drama, New Delhi, in 1997.

Career

Early Career

Rajpal Yadav began his acting career with the Doordarshan television serial Mungeri Ke Bhai Naurangilal, where he played a leading role. His early film appearances included supporting roles in movies such as Dil Kya Kare and Shool.

Breakthrough and Recognition

His breakthrough came with Ram Gopal Varma’s Jungle (2000), where his negative role earned him the Screen Award for Best Actor in a Negative Role. He later transitioned successfully into comedy, becoming one of Bollywood’s most recognized comic actors.

Comedy Stardom

Rajpal became a household name through films such as Hungama, Garam Masala, Waqt: The Race Against Time, Chup Chup Ke, Phir Hera Pheri, Dhol, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. His dialogue delivery and expressive body language turned many of his scenes into viral pop culture moments.

Serious and Lead Roles

Apart from comedy, he played lead and serious roles in films like Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon, Main, Meri Patni Aur Woh, Ladies Tailor, Kushti, and Hello! Hum Lallan Bol Rahe Hain, earning critical appreciation.

Recent Work

In recent years, Rajpal Yadav appeared in Coolie No. 1 (2020), Hungama 2 (2021), Bhoot Police (2021), and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022). He continues to be active in films and web-based projects.

Personal Life

Rajpal Yadav was born to Naurang Yadav. His first wife passed away due to postnatal complications. He later married Radha Yadav in 2003, whom he met during the filming of The Hero: Love Story of a Spy. The couple has two daughters and resides in Mumbai.

Awards and Honours

• Screen Award for Best Actor in a Negative Role – Jungle
• Yash Bharti Award – Main Madhuri Dixit Banna Chahti Hoon
• Janpad Ratna Award

Net Worth

Rajpal Yadav’s estimated net worth is approximately USD 7–10 million, accumulated through films, television appearances, endorsements, and real estate investments.

Legacy

Rajpal Yadav is regarded as one of the most dependable character actors in Hindi cinema. Known for delivering memorable performances even in short roles, he has built a lasting legacy through sincerity, versatility, and consistent screen presence.