Early Life and Background: The Wasseypur Connection
Born in 1983 in Wasseypur, Dhanbad, Jharkhand, Zeishan Quadri’s life story reads like a script from one of his own films. The 42-year-old is the youngest of three siblings and son of civil engineer Syed Imran Quadri. Growing up in the very region that would later inspire his most famous work, Quadri was raised in a strict household environment that shaped his disciplined approach to creativity.
His educational journey took him from Doon Public School in Dhanbad to pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Meerut. This move to Meerut marked the beginning of his transformation from a small-town boy to a future Bollywood storyteller, though the path wasn’t straightforward.
Professional Journey: From Call Centers to Cinema
Before achieving fame in the film industry, Quadri worked in a call center in Delhi and later at HCL computers for approximately 18 months. This practical work experience provided him with real-world perspectives that would later enrich his storytelling abilities.
“After taking a break of a year and a half from writing, I thought this was the right time to get into a platform like this. It’s India’s number one reality show. The kind of audience I have had has been very niche, but after being on this show, my mass following will increase.”
In 2009, driven by his passion for cinema, Quadri made the pivotal decision to move to Mumbai, a choice that would change his life forever.
The Gangs of Wasseypur Breakthrough
Meeting Anurag Kashyap: The Game Changer
Quadri’s entry into the film industry came through a fateful meeting with acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap in 2009. When he pitched the story of Wasseypur to Kashyap, it resonated immediately due to its authentic portrayal of the region’s coal mafia culture. The story, spanning from 1941 to 2010, was based on real-life events that Quadri had witnessed growing up in the area.
Dual Role as Writer and Actor
What made Quadri unique in the industry was his dual contribution to Gangs of Wasseypur. Not only did he co-write the screenplay with Anurag Kashyap, but he also portrayed the memorable character Definite Khan in Part 2 of the film. This character became iconic among audiences, representing the raw authenticity that the film series was known for.
The film, initially shot as a five-hour epic, was released as a duology in 2012, with both parts receiving widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. The movies have since gained cult status, establishing Quadri as both a talented writer and a capable actor.
Expanding Creative Horizons
Directorial Ventures
Building on his success from Gangs of Wasseypur, Quadri took on the challenge of directing with Meeruthiya Gangsters in 2015. Although the film didn’t achieve commercial success, it demonstrated his willingness to experiment and take creative risks across different aspects of filmmaking.
Continued Acting and Writing Career
Quadri’s filmography extends beyond his famous debut, including notable works such as:
- Halahal (2020) – showcasing his versatility in different genres
- Chhalaang – starring alongside Rajkummar Rao and Nushrratt Bharuccha
- Bloody Daddy – featuring in Shahid Kapoor’s action thriller
- Woh Bhi Din The (2024) – his most recent film released on Zee5
His web series appearances include Bicchoo Ka Khel and Your Honor 2, demonstrating his adaptability to the digital content landscape.
Entry into Bigg Boss 19: A Strategic Career Move
Previous Offers and Decision Making
Interestingly, this isn’t Quadri’s first opportunity to join the Bigg Boss franchise. He revealed that he had been offered the show twice before, in 2022 and 2023, but was occupied with other projects. The show makers, who are reportedly good friends of his, persistently believed that Bigg Boss was “meant for him.”
Reasons for Joining Now
Quadri’s decision to enter Bigg Boss 19 appears strategically timed. Having taken a break from writing for about a year and a half, he sees this as an opportunity to connect with a broader audience beyond his niche following.
Quote from Quadri:
“The kind of audience I have had has been very niche, but after being on this show, my mass following will increase.”
What Makes Quadri a Compelling Contestant
Authentic Storytelling Background
Quadri brings a unique perspective to the Bigg Boss house. His background in authentic storytelling, combined with his real-life experiences from Wasseypur, provides him with rich material for genuine interactions and conversations.
Multi-faceted Creative Skills
As someone who has excelled as a writer, actor, director, and producer, Quadri possesses a rare combination of creative skills that could prove advantageous in the various tasks and challenges that Bigg Boss contestants face.
Social Media Presence
Despite having a niche following, Quadri has maintained an active social media presence, which has helped bridge the gap between his early fame from Wasseypur and his newer pursuits. This digital savviness could be beneficial in connecting with younger audiences watching the show.
Bigg Boss 19: Show Details and Format
The current season of Bigg Boss, hosted by Salman Khan, premiered on August 24, 2025, and features a unique political theme called “Gharwalon Ki Sarkar”. This season emphasizes contestant decision-making powers while maintaining audience voting rights.
Viewing Details:
- OTT Platform: JioHotstar at 9:00 PM
- Television: Colors TV at 10:30 PM
- Format: OTT-first approach with 90-minute early streaming
Fellow Contestants
Quadri joins a diverse lineup of contestants including TV actors like Gaurav Khanna (Anupamaa fame), Ashnoor Kaur, social media influencers Awez Darbar and Nagma Mirajkar, and music composer Amaal Mallik.
Read More: Bigg Boss 19 Timing Today: Premiere at 9 PM on JioHotstar, TV at 10:30 PM on Colors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who is Zeishan Quadri?
A: Zeishan Quadri is an Indian writer, actor, director, and producer best known for co-writing and acting in the cult film Gangs of Wasseypur. He played the character Definite Khan and has worked on various films and web series throughout his career.
Q: What is Zeishan Quadri’s age?
A: Zeishan Quadri is 42 years old as of 2025, having been born in 1983.
Q: Why did Zeishan Quadri join Bigg Boss 19?
A: Quadri joined to reach a wider, mass audience beyond his niche following. He had been offered the show twice before but felt this was the right time after taking a break from writing.
Q: When did Bigg Boss 19 start?
A: Bigg Boss 19 premiered on August 24, 2025, with episodes streaming on JioHotstar at 9 PM and airing on Colors TV at 10:30 PM.
Q: What other films has Zeishan Quadri appeared in?
A: Besides Gangs of Wasseypur, Quadri has appeared in films like Halahal, Chhalaang, Bloody Daddy, Woh Bhi Din The, and web series including Bicchoo Ka Khel and Your Honor 2.
Q: Is Zeishan Quadri from Wasseypur?
A: Yes, Zeishan Quadri was born and raised in Wasseypur, Dhanbad, which directly inspired his writing for Gangs of Wasseypur.
Q: What is the theme of Bigg Boss 19?
A: The theme of Bigg Boss 19 is “Gharwalon Ki Sarkar,” emphasizing contestant decision-making powers while maintaining democratic elements in the house.
