HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAIF ALI KHAN – A PEEK INTO HIS GROWTH

By Anshika Khera

Saif Ali Khan (born Sajid Ali Khan Pataudi on August 16, 1970) is a celebrated Indian actor and producer renowned for his versatility across film genres . Hailing from the esteemed Pataudi dynasty, he is the son of cricket legend Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi and acclaimed actress Sharmila Tagore, and currently leads the Pataudi family as its titular head .

He debuted in Bollywood with Parampara (1993), and rose to mainstream recognition with hits like Yeh Dillagi and Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994) . The 2001 film Dil Chahta Hai proved pivotal, showcasing his dramatic range and contributing to a new era in Bollywood storytelling . His critically acclaimed performances followed in Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003) and Hum Tum (2004), earning him a National Film Award (Best Actor) and several Filmfare Awards . He further impressed audiences in dark, complex roles like Langda Tyagi in Omkara (2006) .

Venturing into production, Saif founded Illuminati Films and Black Knight Films, backing films such as Love Aaj Kal and Jawaani Jaaneman . On the digital front, he secured global acclaim with his intense portrayal in Netflix’s first Indian original series Sacred Games (2018–19) . His later success includes roles in the epic Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior (2020) and the recent Netflix thriller Jewel Thief: The Heist Begins (2025) .