Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Manoj Bajpayee: The Definitive Biography

Rate this book
Manoj Bajpayee is a rarity; he’s one of a small cohort of theatre actors who have gone on from humble beginnings to achieve big heights in Hindi cinema. Bajpayee, famous for iconic movies like Satya and the beloved TV show Family Man, is known not only for his skills but also as a master of his craft. His fans adore him for his selection of always interesting projects that compel them to see a side of the world unfamiliar to them.

This biography is the story of Manoj Bajpayee’s commitment and devout passion for acting. It reveals many hitherto unknown aspects of his life to his readers—how his father also had a flair for acting and auditioned at the Pune Film Institute; how his ancestors came to Champaran, Bihar, from Raebareli in Uttar Pradesh; and how he spent his early childhood in the village where Mahatma Gandhi had visited during the Champaran Satyagraha.

Written by Piyush Pandey, who has worked in close coordination with Manoj Bajpayee for more than a decade, this book gives a rare insight into the life of one of India’s best contemporary actors.

212 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 29, 2024

5 people are currently reading
58 people want to read

About the author

Piyush Pandey

46 books19 followers
Piyush Pandey is the Executive Chairman and Creative Director for Ogilvy & Mather India and South Asia, and the winner of over 600 awards for advertising from all over the world. Born in Jaipur, India,Pandey did his schooling from St. Xavier’s School, Jaipur, and obtained his master’s from St. Stephen’s College, Delhi. He is passionate about cricket, having played in the RanjiTrophy, India’s premier domestic cricket tourney, representing Rajasthan, the state where he was born. His first job was as a tea taster, before he joined Ogilvy in 1982 as Trainee Account Executive.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
13 (32%)
4 stars
21 (52%)
3 stars
5 (12%)
2 stars
1 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Profile Image for Nitin Akarsh.
40 reviews
September 18, 2022
मै पहले से ही तीन किताबें पढ़ रहा था और उसी वक़्त मेरे हाथ में आई पियूष पांडे की मनोज बाजपेयी के ऊपर लिखी बायोग्राफी "कुछ पाने की जिद" l अब दूसरीिताबों को पढ़ना मुश्किल लगने लगा l मै समझ गया की इस किताब को पढ़े बिना दूसरी किताब को पढ़ना संभव नहीं l पियूष पांडे ने काफी अच्छी किताब लिखी l मै बिहार से हूँ तो मनोज बाजपेयी हमें अपने लगते हैं l इससे पहले बिहार और बॉलीवुड का रिश्ता शत्रुघ्न सिन्हा की वजह से था l लेकिन मैंने उन्हें जब भी सुना तो मुझे ये लगा की बिहार ने इस व्यक्ति को अपने दिल में जगह दी है लेकिन इस वयक्ति के दिल में बिहार कहीं नहीं है l जब वो बिहार के लोगो से बात कर रहे होते हैं तो इतनी गन्दी हिंदी बोलते हैं जैसा हिंदी फिल्मों में बिहारी व्यक्ति को बोलते दिखाया जाता है l मनोज बाजपेयी जहाँ से आते हैं वो जगह मेरी छोटी बुआजी का ससुराल है और हमारे फूफाजी हिंदुस्तान अख़बार के ब्यूरो चीफ रहे हैं l मुझे याद है एक बार फूफाजी मनोज बाजपेयी से मिलने उनके गांव गए थे l जब वो वहां से आये तो मनोज बाजपेयी की सादगी और अपनापन से मुग्ध हो कर आये थे l उन्होंने कहा की ये तो हम लोगो से अच्छी तरीके से हमारी भाषा में बात करता है और स्टार ईगो का तो कोई पता ही नहीं है l फिर मनोज बाजपेयी के अभिनय की क्या बात करें , जब सत्या मूवी देख कर सिनेमा हॉल से बाहर आ रहे थे उनका काम देख कर मुग्ध थे l मुँह से एक ही बात निकली भीखू ने फिल्म के हीरो को मार दिया रे l माफिया पे उसे टक्कर की मूवी दिखाई नहीं देती l फिर शूल में उनका काम अद्भुत है l मै कई बार सोचता हूँ की हम रॉबर्ट डे नीरो और अलपचीनो को जो सम्मान देते हैं वो हम अपने कलाकारों को नहीं देते l शूल , सत्या और गैंग्स ऑफ़ वासेपुर में मनोज बाजपेयी के काम को क्या कोई दूसरा कर सकता है l ये सिर्फ एक फिल्म कलाकार की ही कहानी नहीं है , ये एक मोटिवेशनल बुक भी है की कोई भी व्यक्ति जो किसी भी जगह से आता हो अगर उसके अंदर जूनून हो तो कोई भी मंजिल बड़ी और दूर नहीं है l मनोज बाजपेयी हमें गर्व है हमारे अपने असली बिहारी बाबू पे l जिया हो बिहार के लाला , जिया तो हजार साला l
Profile Image for Book_withquotes.
627 reviews20 followers
May 2, 2024
[image error]

Embark on a captivating journey through the life and career of Manoj Bajpayee, a rare gem in the realm of Hindi cinema. From humble beginnings to towering achievements, Bajpayee’s story is a testament to resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to his craft. Born and raised in Champaran, Bihar, Bajpayee’s roots trace back to a land steeped in history and culture. His early years were shaped by the rustic charm of the village where Mahatma Gandhi once walked during the Champaran Satyagraha, lending a sense of significance and purpose to his upbringing.

As the son of a father who harbored dreams of acting and once auditioned at the prestigious Pune Film Institute, Bajpayee inherited a flair for the dramatic arts. His journey from the serene landscapes of Champaran to the bustling streets of Mumbai is a testament to his relentless pursuit of his passion for acting. Through trials and tribulations, Bajpayee carved a niche for himself in an industry known for its fierce competition and unpredictability. Renowned for his iconic performances in films like “Satya” and the critically acclaimed series “Family Man,” Bajpayee’s talent transcends boundaries, captivating audiences with his raw intensity and unmatched versatility. His selection of projects reflects a discerning eye for narratives that challenge societal norms and shed light on the human condition. Each role he portrays is imbued with depth and nuance, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of viewers.

This biography delves into the lesser-known facets of Bajpayee’s life, offering readers a glimpse into the man behind the characters. From his early struggles to his meteoric rise to stardom, Bajpayee’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of excellence. With gripping insights and revealing anecdotes, this book paints a vivid portrait of a cinematic luminary whose passion for his art knows no bounds. In a world filled with fleeting fame and transient success, Manoj Bajpayee’s story serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring actors and dreamers alike. His unwavering commitment to his craft and his ability to breathe life into every character he portrays make him a true legend of Indian cinema, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Profile Image for K.
214 reviews14 followers
June 19, 2024
Very well researched the book.
It’s worth knowing, the life of Manoj Bajpai
Profile Image for The Biblioraptor (Ankit).
90 reviews1 follower
May 26, 2024
"Manoj Bajpayee: The Definitive Biography" by Piyush Pandey is a meticulously crafted portrait of one of India's most revered and versatile actors. This biography delves deep into the life and career of Manoj Bajpayee, a man who has carved a niche for himself in the Indian film industry with his intense performances and unwavering commitment to his craft.

The early part of the book is rich with details about his childhood in Belwa, his family background, and the socio-economic conditions that shaped his early years. The narrative beautifully captures the essence of rural India, providing a stark contrast to the glamour of Bollywood that Bajpayee eventually becomes a part of. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including limited financial resources and a lack of exposure to formal training, Bajpayee’s passion and determination for acting never wavered. Pandey's detailed recounting of Bajpayee's struggles to gain admission into the National School of Drama (NSD), which he failed four times, and his subsequent training in theatre under renowned mentors like Barry John adds depth to the narrative.

Bajpayee’s relentless struggle to break into the film industry is one of the most compelling sections of the biography. Pandey does not shy away from describing the numerous rejections and disappointments Bajpayee faced. His initial days in Mumbai, marked by financial hardship and professional uncertainty, are depicted with honesty and empathy. The turning point in Bajpayee's career came with his role in Shekhar Kapur's "Bandit Queen" (1994), where his portrayal of the dacoit Maan Singh garnered critical acclaim. However, it was his performance as Bhiku Mhatre in Ram Gopal Varma’s "Satya" (1998) that catapulted him to fame. ‘Mumbai ka King Kaun’ is the quintessential line that catapulted Manoj Bajpayee into stardom. Incidentally, Mumbai’s King and Bollywood’s King, both honed their skills under the tutelage of Barry John. Pandey’s detailed analysis of these roles highlights Bajpayee's unique ability to immerse himself completely in his characters, a trait that has become his hallmark.

Pandey also delves into Bajpayee's diverse filmography, exploring his roles in critically acclaimed films such as "Shool" (1999), "Pinjar" (2003), "Gangs of Wasseypur" (2012), and “Aligarh” (2015). Each chapter dedicated to these films offers insights into Bajpayee’s preparation and the challenges he faced during filming. The author’s interviews with directors, co-actors, and critics provide a well-rounded perspective on Bajpayee’s impact on Indian cinema.

What sets this biography apart is Pandey's focus on Bajpayee’s method acting and his commitment to portraying realistic, often gritty characters. The book discusses his preference for roles that challenge societal norms and his inclination towards films with strong social messages. While the book primarily focuses on Bajpayee's professional life, Pandey also offers glimpses into his personal life. The biography touches upon his relationships, the failed first marriage, his second marriage to Shabana and his role as a father. These personal anecdotes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, providing a holistic view of the man behind the actor.

No biography of a public figure is complete without addressing the controversies and challenges they face. Pandey does not shy away from discussing the low points in Bajpayee's career, including box office failures, industry politics and fallouts with his colleagues. The biography candidly addresses the criticisms Bajpayee faced for some of his choices and his responses to the evolving dynamics of the film industry. These chapters add a layer of realism to the narrative, portraying Bajpayee not just as an iconic actor but also as a human being navigating the complexities of fame and success.

Piyush Pandey's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the biography a page-turner. His ability to blend factual information with storytelling ensures that readers are not only informed but also entertained. The extensive research is evident in the detailed accounts of film shoots, interviews with industry insiders, and Bajpayee's reflections. Pandey’s use of direct quotes and first-person narratives adds authenticity to the biography, allowing readers to hear Bajpayee's voice throughout the book.

The book is a remarkable tribute to an actor who has redefined the parameters of Indian cinema. Piyush Pandey's biography is not just a recounting of Bajpayee's career but also an exploration of the cultural and artistic contributions he has made to the film industry. The book's strength lies in its balanced portrayal of Bajpayee's professional achievements and personal journey, making it an inspiring read for aspiring actors, filmmakers, and fans. It stands as a testament to Bajpayee's enduring legacy and serves as an inspiration for those who dare to dream beyond the ordinary.
Profile Image for Ekta M.
542 reviews4 followers
May 29, 2024
Manoj in some of his interviews, called his father and mother perfect 'filmchi' ( avid film watchers).

Book - Manoj Baypayee: The Definitive Biography
Author- Piyush Pandey
Genre - Biography/ Non-Fiction
Published by @penguinindia
Format - hardcover
Ebook available


Piyush Pandey is a journalist who have worked closely with Manoj Bajpayee for more than a decade. In this book, he gives readers an insider's view on the making of the star.

He starts the book by sharing Manoj Bajpayee father's early years and how his love for films induced a magical spark in young Manoj's subconscious. Thereafter the author shares about childhood days of Manoj in Belwa - the place where Manoj is born. And how the acting bug bite him and his first visit to Delhi and his agenda to get admission in NSD. The author talks about Manoj's theater days and how despite the rich theater experience he failed to get admission in NSD. The author also talks about Manoj's failed marriage and how it was depressing for him.

His sucess in bollywood has given youngsters from his village the hope to reach for the skies.
From failing to get admission in the NSD to becoming the brightest star in the world of theater, Manoj Bajpayee saw many ups and downs in his life before finding his ultimate calling.


Apart from Manoj, majority of the inputs, stories or memories in this book are shared by Manoj's family and friends. It was great reading this book about how a person from village who didn't knew english is now a big star today. Such books serve as a great source of inspiration.
Profile Image for Rajul.
459 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2022
Swabhiman was one serial which was a launchpad for many amazing actors. Kumud Mishra, Ashutosh Rana and Manoj Bajpayee to name a few.

With a history of lots of itsy bitsy roles and not much success, Manoj Bajpayee tasted phenomenal success s Bhiku Mhatre in the movie Satya. From a gangster in Satya to a homosexual sensitive professor in Aligarh, Manoj Bajpayee has shown how talented as an actor he is.

This biography delves into his past, his passion for acting, his stint in Barry John's acting workshop (@iamsrk was his batch mate) He has lived a very interesting life! And to think such a talented actor once thought of killing himself!

One of the surprising anecdote of his life was narrated by Pankaj Tripathi.

It was amazing to read about all the actors he has worked with and the plays he performed in - it gives a glimpse of Hindi Theatre World as well!

The writing style could have been better and lots of repetitions could have been avoided. Other than that it was a lovely read!
Profile Image for Pratik Pandey.
1 review3 followers
April 16, 2022
It's the best book I've read in a long time. The book touches many unknown dimensions of the life of Bollywood actor Manoj Bajpayee. The best thing about this book is the way it underlines the actor's incessant struggle and his ambition to prove naysayers wrong. I believe it should be read by all the budding entrepreneurs.
Author 138 books1 follower
April 5, 2022
I must say that I came to know many unknown facts and events of Manoj Bajpayee's life. Inspiring book which tells you how a boy from small town of Bihar became big brands of Bollywood without any Godfather.
Profile Image for Surbhy Bhadauria.
1 review
April 16, 2022
This book helps you understand how in adverse situations of life you can still have it all ❤️ Yes, you can have it all!! It is a must read for dreamers and hustlers. It is a true story of hustle. Very inspiring ❤️
106 reviews
March 14, 2023
Does justice to the legendary subject.
Profile Image for _booksagsm.
516 reviews14 followers
June 19, 2024

I had a tough day today, and hence, I decided to post the review for this book, which gives us strength in disguise. "Manoj Bajpayee: The Definitive Biography" by Piyush Pandey is a compelling narrative that goes beyond the usual glamor associated with an actor's life. It delves deep into the struggles and perseverance of Manoj Bajpayee, offering a refreshing perspective on his journey from a small village in Bihar to the pinnacle of Hindi cinema.

This biography reveals many unknown aspects of Bajpayee's life, such as his father's own passion for acting and the hardships he faced during his early years. The author provides a vivid account of Bajpayee's childhood in Champaran, his initial rejection by the National School of Drama (NSD), and his relentless pursuit of acting despite numerous setbacks. Pandey's close collaboration with Bajpayee over a decade ensures an authentic and intimate portrayal, enriched by anecdotes from the actor's family and friends.

Reading this book was a profound experience, showcasing Bajpayee's unwavering dedication to his craft and the resilience that led him to iconic roles in films like "Satya" and "Family Man." The biography not only celebrates his achievements but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and dreamers. It reminds us that true success is often forged through adversity, making Manoj Bajpayee's story a beacon of hope and determination for many. This book also told me to hold on to my dreams and that struggles are a part of every person's daily life and we thus, should not give up.
Profile Image for Ambica Gulati.
112 reviews26 followers
April 21, 2024
Bajpayee’s journey has been a thought provoking one. It’s a lot about hard work, grit and dedication to your dream. It’s about remaining grounded and honing your craft through bad times. It’s always about looking forward and changing the game when luck swings in your favour.

This biography is a reminder that success stories are rarely linear and determination in face of obstacles is sure to make you an achiever.
The book highlights the impact Bajpayee’s success and persona had on aspiring actors from Bihar, demonstrating that success in the glamorous world of Bollywood is attainable. Renowned actor, Pankaj Tripathi, has cited his fan moments many times in media.

In a life full of controversies, hardships and late rewards, Bajpayee stands out for his resilience and fitness. His craft is his asset and his in-depth portrayal of characters his strength. Personally, I have found Aiyaary and Aks to be among his must-watch movies, though both didn’t get commercial success. He rocks in the OTT series, The Family Man, and we eagerly await the third season.
Profile Image for Rahul Vishnoi.
873 reviews27 followers
Read
November 4, 2024
-An actor of enduring grace-
Review of ‘Manoj Bajpayee: The Definitive Biography
🖋️📖

Who doesn’t love Manoj Bajpayee? Even the ones who don’t come near cinema halls must have heard his name. He is Bhikhu Mhatre of Satya, Inspector Samar of Shool, the crazy victim in Kaun, Sardar Khan of Gangs of Wasseypur, Srikant Tiwari of The Family Man and what not?

Pandey has captured Manoj’s film journey as well as his life before joining the Indian film industry in minute detail. He has started right from the very beginning- the birth of his parents and then traced the life of his family going forward.

Manoj’s early years in his hometown and Delhi are captured with compassion, without compromise on the details. His disappointment and depression in his early life make it to the pages, inspiring the ones who want to come to Mumbai to try their luck. His struggle with poverty is also mentioned.

Either it’s a crazy gangster of Mumbai who screams ‘Mumbai Ka King Kaun?’, or a family man cum detective who wants to be a dutiful husband to his wife in The Family Man, Manoj Bajpayee has done it all. An actor of behemoth stature and enduring grace, he has come a long way since debuting in Indian film industry where set standards of beauty and heroism are followed. Manoj was the one who broke the mould.

The author gives a vivid description of Manoj’s success and failures, recording everything with a sharp eye, enlisting his hits and flops and why they were so. It was a joy reading this detailed account of a fine actor’s life.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.