
Shakib Khan
Bangladeshi film actor known as the 'King of Dhallywood' who has appeared in over 250 Bengali films since 2003. He is one of the highest-paid and most popular actors in Bangladeshi cinema.
Biography
Masud Rana Sheikh, better known as Shakib Khan, is a Bangladeshi actor and filmmaker born on March 28, 1979, in Dhaka. As one of the top names in Bengali cinema, he's earned the nickname 'King of Dhallywood' during his career of over 20 years. Since debuting in 1999 with the action-romance film Ananta Bhalobasha, Khan has starred in over 250 Bengali films and is one of the highest-paid actors in Bangladesh and West Bengal.
In his early career, Khan featured in films like Ajker Dapot, Mayer Jihad, Dujon Dujonar, and Porena Chokher Polok. However, it was the film Shahoshi Manush Chai that launched him into stardom, raising his salary from three lakhs to 30 lakhs. He then delivered standout performances in Ajker Somaj, Noyon Bhora Jol, Palta Akromon, Badha, and Khuni Shikder. By 2006, he was starring in blockbusters like Chachchu, Ek Takar Bou, Mayer Morjada, Rajdhanir Raja, and Dadima.
Khan's personal life has drawn media attention due to his marriages to fellow actresses Apu Biswas and Shabnom Bubly. Professionally, he starred in some of the highest-grossing Bengali films of the 2000s, with Priya Amar Priya being the top earner of the decade. After the death of notable actor Manna, Khan secured his position as the leading star in the industry.
His acclaimed works include the national award-winning films Khodar Pore Ma and Aro Bhalobashbo Tomay, along with hits like Bhalobaslei Ghor Bandha Jay Na, Priyotoma, and Toofan. His career covers a wide range of genres, from romantic dramas like 100% Love: Buk Fatey To Mukh Foteyna and Purno Doirgho Prem Kahini to action movies such as Don Number One and Tiger Number One. Khan remains a major figure in today's Dhallywood cinema, continuing to be a commercial hit and a cultural icon in Bangladeshi entertainment.
Before Fame
Masud Rana Sheikh was born in Dhaka in 1979 and began his career in the Bengali film industry during a time when Bangladeshi cinema was undergoing big changes. In the late 1990s, Dhallywood was carving out its own identity apart from West Bengali cinema, which opened up opportunities for new talent.
When Khan started acting in 1999, the industry was focusing more on romantic action films that appealed to younger viewers. He adopted the stage name 'Shakib Khan' to make his screen presence more memorable. His early roles in romantic action films helped him take advantage of the audience's shift towards fresh actors and modern storytelling.
Key Achievements
- Appeared in over 250 Bengali films across a two-decade career
- Won national awards for Khodar Pore Ma and Aro Bhalobashbo Tomay
- Became the highest-paid actor in Bangladesh and West Bengal
- Starred in Priya Amar Priya, the highest-grossing Bengali film of the 2000s
- Earned the title 'King of Dhallywood' for his industry dominance
Did You Know?
- 01.His salary jumped from 3 lakhs to 30 lakhs after the success of a single film, Shahoshi Manush Chai
- 02.He has won national awards for his performances in Khodar Pore Ma and Aro Bhalobashbo Tomay
- 03.The film Priya Amar Priya became the highest-grossing Bengali film of the entire 2000s decade
- 04.He is often referred to as 'King Khan' in the media, a title that reflects his dominance in Dhallywood
- 05.His career spans exactly 250 films over approximately two decades of acting