Contents
Shahnawaz Pradhan was an Indian television and film actor. He is known for playing the role of ‘Nanda Baba’ in the Indian television epic series “Shri Krishna.” He died of a heart attack on 18 February 2023 in Mumbai.
Wiki/Biography
Shahnawaz Pradhan was born on Friday, 6 December 1963 (age 59 years; at the time of death) in Raj Khariar, Nuapada, Orissa. His zodiac sign was Sagittarius.
Shahnawaz Pradhan in childhood
When Shahnawaz was 7 years old, his family shifted to Raipur; as his father was not well and doctor’s recommended him to visit Raipur for treatment. He did his schooling from Raipur’s Government High School. While in class 7, he got selected for a school play and gave his first stage performance. Shahnawaz enjoyed acting in the play and subsequently joined a few local drama groups. After completing his schooling, he went to Raipur’s Ravishankar University to pursue his graduation. In 1984, Habib Tanveer (Theatre Artist) joined his college as a visiting professor for one year. He collected the students to prepare for the play and by the time the play ended, Tanveer offered Pradhan to join his theatre group, “Naya Theatre.” Shahnawaz joined the group and did theatre for 5 years.
Shahnawaz Pradhan in one of his plays
He travelled across India doing plays like “Charandas Chor,” “Lala Shohrat Rai,” “Hirma Ki Amar Kahani,” and “Mitti Ki Gaadi.” In 1991, he left the theatre and moved to Mumbai to pursue his career in acting.
Shahnawaz Pradhan in his younger days
Physical Appearance
Height (approx.): 5′ 5″
Hair Colour: Black
Eye Colour: Black
Family & Caste
Shahnawaz Pradhan belonged to a Muslim Family.
Parents & Siblings
He was the only child of his parents.
Wife & Children
Shahnawaz was married and is survived by a daughter.
Shahnawaz Pradhan with his daughter
Career
Shahnawaz Pradhan started his acting career with Doordarshan’s show, “Jan Se Jantantra Tak.” He came into the limelight after playing the role of ‘Nand Baba’ in the epic television series “Shri Krishna.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Shri Krishna
He played the role of ‘Sindbad the Sailor’ in the popular fantasy television series “Alif Laila.” He also appeared in the TV serials “Byomkesh Bakshi (TV series),” “Tota Weds Maina,” “Bandhan Saat Janmon Ka,” and “Suite life of Karan and Kabir.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Suite Life of Karan and Kabir
In 2015, Shahnawaz gained huge popularity after playing the role of ‘Hafiz Saeed’ in the Bollywood film “Phantom.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan as Hafiz Saeed in Phantom
Shahnawaz was featured in many Hindi films like “Bangistan” and “Raees.” He also appeared in the Amazon Prime TV series “Mirzapur.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Bangistan
In addition to TV serials and films, he also featured in many advertisements for the brands like “Century Plywood,” “Honda Activa 4G,” and “Droom.”
Shahnawaz Pradhan in Century Plywood advertisement
Death
On 18 February 2023, he fell unconscious after complaining of severe chest pain during an award function in Mumbai. Later he was rushed to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he died of a heart attack.
Favourites
Facts/Trivia
- He loved reading and travelling in his leisure time.
- Shahnawaz Pradhan lent his voice to the character of ‘Sugreev’ in the TV series “Hanuman” (2005).
- In August 2015, Shahnawaz went underground after playing the role of ‘Hafiz Saeed’ in the Bollywood film “Phantom.” Reportedly, the Lahore High Court banned the film in Pakistan after a petition was filed by Saeed. Therefore, the makers of the film decided to keep Shahnawaz underground as a precautionary measure.