When we think of 90s Bollywood, names like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan immediately come to mind. However, there was another actor who, though not as prominent in Bollywood, became a superstar elsewhere. That actor is Chunky Pandey, a name that was well-known in the Indian film industry during the late 80s and early 90s. While he never achieved the same level of fame as the Khans in Bollywood, he carved out a highly successful career in Bangladesh’s film industry.
A Superstar in Bangladesh
While Chunky Pandey appeared in several Bollywood films, it was his work in the Bangladesh film industry that made him a star. Starting with his debut in Bollywood in 1987 with Daraar, Chunky gained recognition for his role as Munna in the hit film Tezaab. He also made a mark with the song “Saat Samundar Paar” from the film Vishwatma, which became a fan favorite. However, despite these successes, Chunky slowly faded from the Bollywood spotlight.
Seeking better opportunities, he turned to the Bangladesh film industry, where he instantly became a sensation. In a relatively short time, he achieved the kind of fame in Bangladesh that eluded him in India. His roles in Bangladeshi films earned him immense popularity, and he became a household name in the country.
Real Name and Family Background
Chunky Pandey, whose real name is Suyash Sharad Pandey, was born on 26 September 1962. Interestingly, there has been a long-standing misconception that his real name is Chandrakant, which he has clarified in interviews. Chunky shared that during his school days, his friends often called him Suyash, which was his official name.
Coming from a well-educated background, both of Chunky’s parents were doctors. His father, Sharad Pandey, was a renowned surgeon, and his mother, Snehlata Pandey, was also a practicing doctor. While Chunky considered following in his parents’ footsteps and entering the medical profession, he eventually chose the world of cinema.
Chunky’s Hidden Talents
Despite his stardom in acting, Chunky has revealed that if he hadn’t pursued acting, he would have been a baker. In several interviews, he has proudly stated that he’s an expert at baking cakes, a skill that could have easily turned into another career. Additionally, Chunky is a passionate swimmer and often spends his free time swimming for hours, which he credits for maintaining his fitness even in his 60s.
The Akshay Kumar Connection
One little-known fact about Chunky Pandey is his connection to Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar. During a promotional event for Housefull 3, Akshay Kumar revealed that Chunky was his senior during acting classes. Akshay also mentioned that he used to admire Chunky during their early days in the industry. Chunky and Akshay later appeared together in the Housefull film series, showcasing a camaraderie that went beyond just professional association.
The Comeback to Bollywood
After his stint in Bangladesh, Chunky eventually returned to Bollywood and featured in numerous films. Over the course of his career, he has acted in over 80 films, both in Bollywood and Bangladesh. While he may not have reached the superstar status in India that many of his contemporaries did, his versatility and enduring presence have made him a beloved figure in both industries.
In recent years, Chunky has been seen in supporting roles in several Bollywood films, continuing to entertain audiences across generations.
