Overview

Viju Khote (17 December 1941 – 30 September 2019) was a prolific Indian character actor whose career spanned several decades across Hindi and Marathi cinema, stage and television. Born in Bombay, he built a reputation as a versatile supporting performer, equally at home in comic turns and small but memorable dramatic parts. Over the course of his life he appeared in more than 300 films and a number of stage productions.

Notable roles and screen presence

Khote is widely remembered for a handful of appearances that entered popular culture. His portrayal of the henchman Kalia in the landmark 1975 film Sholay remains one of his most visible and oft-cited performances. Another widely recognized role came in the 1990s cult comedy Andaz Apna Apna, in which he played the character Robert. He also reached television audiences through the sitcom Zabaan Sambhalke (1993), among other serials.

Career, style and theatre work

Khote’s screen persona was that of a dependable character actor: he frequently supported lead actors, provided comic relief, or populated a scene with a distinctive minor role. Beyond films he worked in Marathi theatre throughout his life, where live performance sharpened his timing and presence. Directors and co‑actors often relied on him to lift scenes with small gestures, a sharp line‑delivery, or a memorable expression.

Selected filmography and television

  • Sholay — as Kalia (see film)
  • Andaz Apna Apna — as Robert (see film)
  • Zabaan Sambhalke — television series (1993)
  • Numerous Hindi and Marathi films across genres (supporting and comic roles)

Legacy and later life

Viju Khote is remembered for his longevity and the way a few small roles achieved lasting recognition. Character actors like Khote have been an essential part of Indian cinema’s storytelling tradition, bringing texture and humor to mainstream films. Khote died at his home in Mumbai on 30 September 2019 from multiple organ failure at the age of 77; reports at the time confirmed the circumstances of his passing and reflected on his long contribution to stage and screen (contemporary reports).

While he rarely headlined films, Khote’s face and voice remain familiar to generations of filmgoers, and his work continues to be cited when discussing memorable supporting performances in Indian cinema.