Zeishan Quadri is an Indian actor, writer, director, and producer best known for co-writing the cult classic Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) and for his memorable performance as Definite Khan. Born and raised in Wasseypur, Dhanbad, Zeishan’s real-life experiences shaped his raw, realistic storytelling and onscreen persona. In 2025, he added a new chapter to his career by entering Bigg Boss 19, giving audiences a closer look at his personality beyond films and scripts.
Quick Info
Field | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Zeishan Quadri |
Date of Birth | 18 March 1983 |
Age | 42 years (as of 2025) |
Birthplace | Wasseypur, Dhanbad, Jharkhand, India |
Profession | Actor, Writer, Director, Producer |
Nationality | Indian |
Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
Famous Role | Definite Khan (Gangs of Wasseypur) |
Education | Schooling: Doon Public School, Dhanbad; Degree in Computer Science from Meerut |
Early Jobs | Call center employee in Delhi |
Moved to Mumbai | 2009 |
Notable Entry (2025) | Contestant, Bigg Boss 19 |
Social Media | Instagram: @zeishanquadri83; Facebook: Zeishan Quadri; X (Twitter): active |
Early Life and Education
Zeishan Quadri grew up in the gritty lanes of Wasseypur, a neighborhood whose people and stories would later form the backbone of his writing. He completed his schooling at Doon Public School, Dhanbad, and pursued a degree in Computer Science from a college in Meerut. Before entering the film industry, he worked in a call center in Delhi, which helped him sharpen communication skills and observe human behavior — ingredients that later enriched his screenwriting.
Career Journey
Breakthrough: Gangs of Wasseypur
Zeishan’s career-defining moment came when he co-wrote Gangs of Wasseypur Part 1 & 2 (2012) with Anurag Kashyap. The film’s raw narrative, complex characters, and authentic dialects made it a landmark of contemporary Indian cinema. His portrayal of Definite Khan gained instant recognition and cemented his place in Bollywood’s landscape.
Writing and Screenplay Work
- Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) — Story & Screenplay
- Blood Money (2012) — Screenplay
- Revolver Rani (2014) — Dialogue Writer
Zeishan is known for drawing heavily from real-life incidents and people he encountered in Wasseypur, producing stories that feel lived-in and visceral.
Directorial and Production Ventures
- Meeruthiya Gangsters (2015) — Director. A crime-comedy inspired by real events, showcasing Zeishan’s flair for blending realism with dark humor.
Acting: Beyond Definite Khan
Apart from his defining role in Gangs of Wasseypur, Zeishan has acted in films and digital projects such as:
- Banana (2015)
- Halahal (2020)
- Bhoot Purva (Web Series)
His performances are often rooted in authenticity, giving lesser-seen characters a strong emotional core.
Entry into Bigg Boss 19 (2025)
Joining Bigg Boss 19 in 2025, Zeishan Quadri brought his straightforward, no-nonsense persona to the reality TV format. Fans and critics were curious to see how a storyteller known for gritty cinema would navigate the dramatics of a reality show house. His participation expanded his reach beyond film audiences and opened new conversations about his life and craft.
Zeishan Quadri Net Worth (2025 Estimate)
Estimating the net worth of film personalities can vary widely based on film fees, production income, endorsements, and investments. As of 2025, public records do not provide an exact figure for Zeishan Quadri’s wealth. Based on his body of work as a writer, actor, director, and producer, plus probable earnings from appearances and reality TV, his estimated net worth is:
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): INR 6–15 Crore (approx. USD 0.7–1.8 million)
This is an approximate range, compiled from industry patterns and available public information. Actual figures may differ based on private deals, production profits, and other income sources.
Filmography & Notable Works (Selected)
- Gangs of Wasseypur (2012) — Story/Screenplay; Actor (Definite Khan)
- Blood Money (2012) — Screenplay
- Revolver Rani (2014) — Dialogue Writer
- Meeruthiya Gangsters (2015) — Director
- Banana (2015) — Actor
- Halahal (2020) — Actor
- Bhoot Purva (Web Series) — Actor
Personal Style and Influence
Zeishan’s storytelling is characterized by:
- Authenticity — rooted in lived experience from Wasseypur.
- Grit and realism — focus on morally grey characters.
- Local dialect and texture — bringing regional flavor to mainstream cinema.
Anurag Kashyap’s early belief in Zeishan’s stories helped launch his mainstream career, validating the director-writer collaboration that made Gangs of Wasseypur a benchmark.
FAQs
Who is Zeishan Quadri?
Zeishan Quadri is an Indian actor, writer, director, and producer best known for co-writing Gangs of Wasseypur and playing Definite Khan. He is also a filmmaker who directs and produces films inspired by real events.
How old is Zeishan Quadri?
Zeishan Quadri was born on 18 March 1983, making him 42 years old as of 2025.
What is Zeishan Quadri’s net worth in 2025?
Public data is limited. Industry estimates put his net worth between INR 6–15 Crore (approx. USD 0.7–1.8 million) as of 2025. This is an approximate range and may vary.
Which famous role is Zeishan Quadri known for?
He is best known for his role as Definite Khan in Gangs of Wasseypur (2012).
Did Zeishan Quadri participate in Bigg Boss?
Yes, Zeishan Quadri entered Bigg Boss 19 as a contestant in 2025, marking his foray into mainstream reality television.
Where can I follow Zeishan Quadri on social media?
Instagram:Â @zeishanquadri83
Facebook:Â Zeishan Quadri
X (Twitter): active profile (search his name)
Conclusion
From the alleyways of Wasseypur to the national spotlight, Zeishan Quadri has built a career founded on realism and lived experience. Whether through writing compelling crime sagas, directing gritty comedies, acting memorable characters, or stepping into the Bigg Boss house, Zeishan continues to evolve as a multifaceted storyteller. Keep an eye on his social channels and streaming platforms for his next creative venture.