Tinnu Anand – Full Details
Basic Information
- Full Name / Birth Name: Virender Raj Anand
- Date of Birth: 12 October 1945
- Place of Birth: Bombay (then Bombay Province, British India)
- Education: Mayo College
- Father: Inder Raj Anand (renowned screenwriter)
- Spouse: Shahnaz Anand (née Vahanvaty), daughter of actor Agha
- Children: Two daughters – Isha Anand & Diksha Anand
- Relatives in Film Industry:
- Brother: Bittu Anand
- Cousin: Mukul Anand
- Nephew: Siddharth Anand
Career Highlights
Early Career & Training
- Tinnu’s father was initially reluctant about him joining films.
- He was sent to learn under legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray.
- Worked as assistant director on several Ray films such as Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne (1969), Aranyer Din Ratri, Seemabaddha, Pratidwandi, and Ashani Sanket.
As a Director
Directed multiple notable Hindi films, especially with Amitabh Bachchan:
- Duniya Meri Jeb Mein (1979)
- Kaalia (1981)
- Shahenshah (1988)
- Main Azaad Hoon (1989)
- Major Saab (1998)
As an Actor
Appeared in many Hindi and regional films:
- Ghajini
- Dabangg series
- Chhupa Rustom
- Lajja
- Aisa Yeh Jahaan
- Tamil films: Nayakan, Bombay
- Telugu film: Anji
Interesting Facts
- Originally considered to play Crime Master Gogo in Andaz Apna Apna, but the role went to Shakti Kapoor.
- Known for versatility as actor, director, writer, and producer.
- Once recalled being asked to offer Amitabh Bachchan Rs. 5,000 for his debut film Saat Hindustani.
- Learned from industry veterans like Veeru Devgan how to handle tough shooting schedules.
- In his later years, he has focused more on acting than directing.
Recent News & Controversies
- In 2025, a controversy arose when a WhatsApp message allegedly from him threatened stray dogs with a hockey stick; he clarified it was due to his age and fear of being attacked.
- He also revealed that he was initially offered the role of Crime Master Gogo in Andaz Apna Apna.
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