Pankaj Tripathi is a highly acclaimed Indian actor known for his versatile performances in Hindi cinema and web series. He was born in the village of Belsand in the Gopalganj district of Bihar. Tripathi initially worked as a farmer and later as a hotel kitchen worker before pursuing his passion for acting. He is an alumnus of the prestigious National School of Drama in New Delhi. He made his film debut with a minor role in the 2004 movie Run. His breakthrough performance came with the film Gangs of Wasseypur, where he played the role of Sultan Qureshi. Over the years, he has gained immense popularity for his nuanced portrayals in films like Masaan, Newton, and Stree. He is widely recognized for his iconic role as Kaleen Bhaiya in the popular web series Mirzapur. Tripathi has received numerous accolades, including a National Film Award and several Filmfare Awards. He is often praised for his ability to bring authenticity and depth to even the smallest of roles. His grounded personality and humble background have made him a beloved figure among Indian audiences. He continues to be one of the most sought-after character actors in the Indian entertainment industry.