Name: Anurag Kashyap
Profession: Film director, screenwriter, producer, actor
Born: 10 September 1972 in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Nationality: Indian
Known for: Black Friday, Dev.D, Gangs of Wasseypur, Ugly, Raman Raghav 2.0
Biography:
Anurag Kashyap is a pioneering filmmaker whose unconventional storytelling has redefined modern Indian cinema. Born in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, he nurtured an early passion for literature and film that would later transform his approach to storytelling.
Kashyap began his career with short films and underground projects, steadily building a reputation as a bold and innovative voice in a traditionally conservative industry.
His breakthrough came with the hard-hitting drama “Black Friday” (2004), a film that delved into the complexities of the 1993 Bombay bomb blasts and showcased his fearless commitment to portraying real-life issues despite facing significant censorship and controversy.
Building on this momentum, Kashyap continued to challenge cinematic norms with films like “No Smoking” (2007) and “Dev.D” (2009), a modern reinterpretation of the classic tale “Devdas” that quickly became a cult favorite for its fresh narrative style and striking visuals.

His magnum opus, “Gangs of Wasseypur” (2012), is celebrated for its sprawling narrative, multifaceted characters, and a raw depiction of power struggles within the Indian underworld. This film not only earned him critical acclaim both nationally and internationally but also cemented his status as a central figure in the Indian independent film movement.
Beyond directing, Kashyap has significantly contributed to the industry by mentoring emerging talent and co-founding Phantom Films, a production house known for backing unconventional projects that push the boundaries of mainstream Bollywood.
His films often explore themes such as societal decay, political corruption, and the human condition, making him a vital voice in contemporary cinema. With each project, Anurag Kashyap continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike by staying true to his vision of gritty realism and narrative innovation.
Awards and Accolades:
- Multiple Filmfare Award nominations, including Best Director for films like Gangs of Wasseypur
- Recognition at various national and international film festivals for his groundbreaking contributions to independent cinema
- Widely acknowledged as a pioneer of the modern Indian filmmaking movement
Interesting Facts:
- Kashyap’s early work in short films and underground cinema paved the way for a new wave in Indian storytelling
- He is known for his fearless exploration of controversial subjects, often challenging societal norms through his films
- Beyond directing, he has made notable contributions as a writer, producer, and occasional actor
- His co-founding of Phantom Films has helped launch the careers of several emerging filmmakers
Social Media:
Twitter: @anuragkashyap72
Instagram: @anuragkashyap10