Who knew Bollywood had its own “chalk-and-duster” squad? This Teachers’ Day, we’re celebrating stars who once traded scripts for school bells. From Akshay Kumar to Sanya Malhotra, these actors prove that
life off-screen can be just as inspiring. Let’s dive into the Bollywood celebs who have been real-life teachers before stealing our hearts on the big screen!
Akshay Kumar
Known to all as Bollywood’s “Khiladi,” Akshay Kumar, born Rajiv Hari Om Bhatia, actually has a teaching side to his story. After dropping out of school to pursue martial arts, he traveled the world to master his craft. Once back in Mumbai, he began teaching martial arts at a recognised school, passing on his skills to eager students. Interestingly, it was through teaching that his acting journey began, a student recommended him for a modelling assignment, which gradually opened doors to the Bollywood stardom we know him for today.
Sanya Malhotra
Before making her mark in Bollywood, Sanya Malhotra was a teacher of a different kind, she taught dance in Delhi. Alongside her dance classes, she also conducted yoga sessions for local residents, sharing her passion for movement and fitness. Her journey to stardom began when she auditioned for Dance India Dance, which eventually led her to Mumbai to pursue dance and acting full-time. Today, after her debut in Dangal, she’s a celebrated actress.
Bob Christo
Australian-born Bob Christo, remembered for movies like Mr. India, Gumrah, Mard, and Abdullah, transitioned from acting to teaching yoga, sharing wellness and discipline with students after leaving Bollywood.
Anupam Kher
Anupam Kher isn’t just a veteran actor; he’s also a passionate teacher. Through his acting school, he has guided countless students in the art of performance. Some of his pupils, like Deepika Padukone, have gone on to become Bollywood superstars.
Pankaj Kapur
Before becoming one of India’s most respected actors, Pankaj Kapur shared his expertise as a teacher at the National School of Drama (NSD). Known for his impeccable acting skills in films and theatre, Kapur guided aspiring actors, helping them hone their craft and understand the nuances of performance.
Balraj Sahni
Legendary actor Balraj Sahni, known for classics like Do Bigha Zameen, Anuradha, and Kabuliwala, had a scholarly side few knew about. In the 1930s, he taught English and Hindi at the prestigious Visva Bharati University in Bengal, blending intellect with artistry long before his cinematic fame.
Utpal Dutt
The versatile Bengali actor, who also appeared in films like Shaukeen, Rang Birangi, and Naram Garam, balanced his acting career with teaching English at South Point School in Kolkata.
Kader Khan
Multi-talented actor, screenwriter, and director Kader Khan taught Civil Engineering at M. H. Saboo Siddik College of Engineering in Mumbai during 1970-75. Later, after moving to Dubai, he continued teaching, this time focusing on Hindi, nurturing students far from Bollywood’s limelight.
Nandita Das
Nandita Das combined her passion for theatre and social work by teaching at Rishi Valley School, where she also served as director. Known for films like Fire, Earth, Bawandar, and Kannathil Muthamittal, she continues to inspire students and audiences alike.
Kanwarjit Paintal
The comedian known for films like Kaalo, Satte Pe Satta, Bawarchi, and Rufuu Chakkar studied acting at FTII and later became the head of the institute, mentoring a new generation of actors with his knowledge and experience.
Tom Alter
This Padma Shri awardee, of American descent, was admired for his roles in Shaktimaan, Shatranj Ke Khiladi, Ashiqui, and Sarghoshiyan. But before hitting the big screen, he worked as a cricket coach at St. Thomas School in Jagadhri, Haryana, sharing his love for sports and discipline with students.
Chandrachur Singh
Before charming audiences in films like Josh, Maachis, and Daag, Chandrachur Singh was a music teacher at Doon School. His early teaching experience shaped the patience and charisma he brought to the screen.
This Teachers’ Day, as we celebrate mentors who guide and inspire, let’s also remember these Bollywood stars who once taught in real life.
Happy Teachers Day!
