Vinod Khanna

Indian film actor, director and politician

Born: October 6, 1946 · Died: April 27, 2017

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Who was Vinod Khanna?

Vinod Khanna (6 October 1946 – 27 April 2017) was an Indian actor, film producer, and politician known for his work in Hindi cinema. Beyond his film career, Khanna was also a spiritual seeker. Khanna made his film debut in 1968 and initially appeared in supporting and antagonistic roles. He portrayed an angry young man in the social drama Mere Apne (1971), the main antagonist in the action drama Mera Gaon Mera Desh (1971), and a military officer turned fugitive in the crime drama Achanak (1973). From 1974 to 1982, he led in numerous hits, often as one of the highest-paid actors of the era, starred in several blockbusters that bolstered the masala film's popularity.

Historical significance

Recognised as a style and fashion icon, he was often referred to as the "Sexy Sanyasi" in the media, as well a sex symbol. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest stars in Indian cinema history. In 2018, Khanna was posthumously honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest cinematic award, at the 65th National Film Awards. Khanna emerged as a pivotal figure in 1970s Indian cinema, establishing himself as a leading action hero and box-office magnet who rivaled Amitabh Bachchan's dominance.

Sources and further reading

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MLA

“Vinod Khanna.” thisDay, thisday.info/people/vinod-khanna/. Accessed 6 Oct. 2026.

APA

Vinod Khanna. (n.d.). thisDay. Retrieved October 6, 2026, from https://thisday.info/people/vinod-khanna/

Chicago

“Vinod Khanna.” thisDay. Accessed October 6, 2026. https://thisday.info/people/vinod-khanna/.

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