In the vast tapestry of Bollywood’s golden era, some actors left indelible marks not through lead roles, but through unforgettable character portrayals. One such figure is Yusuf Khan, an Egyptian-born actor who became synonymous with the villainous henchman Zebisko in two iconic Amitabh Bachchan films. While his own career was tragically cut short, his son Faraaz Khan nearly stepped into stardom with a film that would go on to define an entire generation.
Key Highlights of Yusuf Khan’s Career
Born in Egypt in 1940, Yusuf Khan relocated to Mumbai to pursue acting.
He debuted as a lead in General Ki Hasina (1969), but the film’s failure ended his prospects as a leading man.
He reinvented himself as a character actor, appearing in Hindi and regional films like Kaalam Vellum (1970).
His breakout role came in Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), where he played Zebisko, the menacing bodyguard of Parveen Babi’s character.
He reprised the same role in Naseeb (1981), again directed by Manmohan Desai and starring Amitabh Bachchan.
He was slated to return as Zebisko in Mard (1985), but died of a brain haemorrhage during filming in Hyderabad at the age of 45.
Yusuf Khan’s portrayal of Zebisko became so iconic that the character transcended individual films, becoming a recurring persona in the Bachchan-Desai cinematic universe.
Supporting Roles That Defined an Era
Yusuf Khan may not have been the central villain, but his presence was felt in numerous blockbusters:
Bombay to Goa (1972): Played a wrestler and bus passenger alongside Amitabh Bachchan.
Parvarish (1977), Don (1978), Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978), Khud-Daar (1982), and Nastik (1982): Featured as a supporting villain in these Bachchan-led hits.
Despite his consistent screen presence, Yusuf never ascended to the role of chief antagonist, a reflection of the era’s rigid casting hierarchies.
Faraaz Khan: A Star That Almost Was
Yusuf Khan’s son, Faraaz Khan, was poised to make a grand debut in Sooraj Barjatya’s Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), a film that would later launch Salman Khan into superstardom.
Faraaz was the original choice for the lead role but was diagnosed with jaundice just before filming began.
He was replaced by Salman Khan, whose performance became a cultural phenomenon.
Faraaz eventually debuted in Fareb (1996), a psychological thriller directed by Vikram Bhatt.
He also starred in Mehndi (1998) opposite Rani Mukerji and appeared in the 2005 film Chand Bujh Gaya.
His final screen appearance was in the supernatural TV show Neeli Aankhen (2008) on Sahara One.
Like his father, Faraaz’s career was marked by promise and premature loss. He passed away in 2020 at the age of 50.
A Legacy of Unfulfilled Stardom
The story of Yusuf Khan and Faraaz Khan is one of talent, timing, and tragedy. Yusuf’s recurring role as Zebisko remains a rare instance of character continuity in Bollywood, while Faraaz’s near-debut in Maine Pyar Kiya is a poignant what-if in cinematic history.
Their journeys reflect the unpredictable nature of fame in the film industry—where iconic roles don’t always translate to lasting recognition, and missed opportunities can alter the course of careers.
Sources: Indian Express
