Unsung Heroes: Lesser Known Facts About Bhojpuri and Bollywood Actor Ravi Kishan

Ravi Kishan is a multifaceted personality who has had a significant impact on the Bhojpuri film industry and Bollywood. Here are some lesser-known facts about his fascinating journey and diverse talents.

Early Life

Ravi Kishan was born on July 17, 1969, in a small village in Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh. His family's involvement in the performing arts influenced his career path, setting the stage for a life in the entertainment industry. Though also born and brought up in Santacruz, Mumbai, his family experienced significant challenges. By the time he was 10 years old, due to family disputes in the dairy business, his family shifted to Jaunpur in Uttar Pradesh.

Theater Background

Before making it big in films, Ravi Kishan was deeply involved in theater. He honed his acting skills with various drama troupes, which provided him with invaluable experience and exposure. He recalls a harrowing journey, stating that he came to Mumbai with only 500 rupees in his pocket, showcasing his determination and resilience.

Early Career

Ravi Kishan started his film career in 1992 with a B-grade movie titled Bholam. However, he began his journey as an outsider and had many small roles and even worked as a background artist. Interestingly, he was also part of Ramleela and played the role of Sita, which he had to handle with subtlety, sharing that it was not immediately evident in his acting.

While making his Bollywood debut with Pitambar in 1992, where he was paid 5000 rupees for all the scenes, Ravi Kishan faced significant struggles for recognition. He didn't gain recognition until he played the role of a priest named 'Rameshwar' in the 2003 movie Tere Naam, which took him 11 years to achieve this breakthrough.

Ravi Kishan's inspiration for his character 'Rameshwar' came from his father, who was a priest. This role opened several doors for him in the industry, leading to numerous offers. One of his notable moments was when a dialogue from his movie went viral, declaring 'Zindagi Jhandwa… Phir Bhi Ghamandwa.'

Alongside his acting career, Ravi Kishan ventured into reality TV. He made a name for himself in the first season of Bigg Boss in 2006, where he finished as a second runner up. Later, he participated in the 5th season of the famous dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa.

Ravi Kishan further demonstrated his versatility by recreating a train stunt scene from Aamir Khan's movie Ghulam in the Bhojpuri film 'Jeena Hai To Thok Daal.'

Social Initiatives and Recognition

Ravi Kishan has not only made a mark in films but also in social causes. He is deeply involved in various initiatives related to education and health, using his platform to raise awareness. For his contributions to Bhojpuri cinema, he has received numerous awards, including the Bhojpuri Film Awards and the Uttar Pradesh Film Awards. Additionally, he was awarded the most popular actor award at the ETV Bhojpuri Cinema Samman function and has made himself a TV presenter by hosting popular and controversial shows like Bathroom Singer and Raaz Pichhle Janam Ka.

Personal Life

Ravi Kishan's personal life is just as fascinating as his professional one. He is married to Priti, and they have four children. An interesting anecdote illustrates the contrast between their lives: Priti didn't know anything about the movies, and in an interview, Ravi Kishan shared a humorous incident where she asked him why he had done so many intimate scenes with actresses, to which he replied it was a camera trick, and actors and actresses weren't together during filming.

International Work

Ravi Kishan has also ventured into international work. In 2007, he dubbed the voice of Spider-Man for the Bhojpuri movie 'Spider-Man 3.' He was also part of a Bhojpuri film titled 'Jala Debh Duniya Tohra Pyar Mein,' where he starred alongside an American film company, Pun Films. This film was shown in the India Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Awards

Throughout his career, Ravi Kishan has received numerous accolades, including the Most Popular Actor Award at the ETV Bhojpuri Cinema Samman function. He has also established himself as a TV presenter by hosting popular shows and has participated in several reality TV shows, enhancing his visibility and popularity.