Anang Desai

Anang Desai is one of those rare Bollywood veterans who's been consistently killing it since the early '80s. Born and raised in Ahmedabad, this National School of Drama alumnus brought serious theatrical chops to both the big and small screens, racking up over 70 films and more than 100 TV appearances. But if we're being honest, most people know him as the lovable Babuji from the cult classic comedy series Khichdi—a role so iconic that he literally became the character for an entire generation of viewers. That's the kind of impact that separates legends from the rest. What makes Anang Desai stand out is his chameleon-like ability to slip into diverse characters without ever losing that distinctive charm. Whether he's doing comedy, drama, or something quirky, he brings an authenticity that feels earned from all those years grinding it out in theatre before becoming a household name on television. His contribution to Indian comedy television is seriously underrated, and while he's kept a lower profile in recent years compared to his peak days, his legacy as Babuji alone cemented his place in Bollywood culture. That's the mark of a truly versatile performer who understood his craft inside and out.