Unrecognisable Now: Bollywood’s Famous Villain Who Chose Faith Over Fame

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Arif Khan, once a familiar face in Bollywood’s villainous roles alongside stars like Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar, has undergone a dramatic transformation that’s left fans stunned.

Key Highlights:

Arif Khan made his mark as the menacing Rocky in Ajay Devgn’s debut hit “Phool Aur Kaante” (1991), earning praise for his strong screen presence.
He went on to play notable antagonist roles in films such as “Mohra” (with Akshay Kumar and Suniel Shetty), “Veergati” (with Salman Khan), and “Diljale” (again with Ajay Devgn), cementing his reputation as a reliable Bollywood villain through the 1990s.
In 2007, Arif Khan even appeared in Hollywood, sharing the screen with Angelina Jolie as a taxi driver in “A Mighty Heart.”
Despite a promising start, Arif struggled to find satisfaction in the film industry. He revealed in interviews that he felt overlooked for major roles and grew disillusioned with the fast-paced, competitive world of Bollywood.
Wrestling with inner turmoil and unhealthy habits, Arif decided to leave acting behind after nearly a decade, seeking peace and purpose in spirituality.
He joined the Tablighi Jamaat, embraced a life of religious teaching, and became a Maulana, dedicating himself to spreading Islamic teachings and leading a simple, humble life far from the limelight.

Arif Khan’s transformation became widely known during the Covid pandemic, when a viral video showed him with a long beard and dressed in traditional attire—almost unrecognisable from his days as a Bollywood villain.

Today, Arif Khan is remembered not just for his on-screen roles, but for his remarkable journey from the world of cinema to a life devoted to faith and community.

Source: News24, Times of India, News18, NDTV, Wikipedia