Johnny Lever, born John Prakash Rao Janumala on 14 August 1957, is a legendary Indian actor and comedian widely regarded as one of the greatest comic talents in the history of Indian cinema. Known for his impeccable timing, expressive face, and versatile performances, Lever has carved a niche for himself in Hindi films since he began his career in 1984. Over the decades, he has appeared in more than 300 films, often as the go-to comic relief in blockbusters spanning all genres.

He gained widespread popularity in the 1990s with memorable performances in films like Baazigar, Raja Hindustani, Deewana Mastana, and Dulhe Raja. His ability to mimic, improvise, and transform into wildly different characters made him a favorite among filmmakers and audiences alike. He was nominated thirteen times for the Filmfare Award for Best Performance in a Comic Role and won it twice — for Deewana Mastana in 1997 and Dulhe Raja in 1998.

Beyond the screen, Johnny Lever is also a celebrated stage performer and has done extensive stand-up comedy in India and abroad. His legacy not only lies in the laughter he’s brought to millions but also in opening doors for future generations of Indian comedians in mainstream cinema.