Johnny Lever, born John Rao Prakash Rao Janumala on August 14, 1957, is a name synonymous with comedy in Indian cinema. While his on-screen antics have brought joy to millions, there are several lesser-known facets of his life that are equally fascinating. HBD Johnny Lever: Lesser-Known Facts.
Lesser-Known Facts:
Johnny Lever was born into a Telugu Christian family in Andhra Pradesh and later moved to Mumbai. His father worked at Hindustan Unilever Ltd, and it was here that Johnny got his famous stage name. He dropped out of school after the seventh grade due to financial constraints and started doing odd jobs, including selling pens on the streets of Mumbai1. His talent for mimicry and comedy was evident early on, and he used these skills to entertain people and earn a living.
The name “Johnny Lever” originated from his performances at Hindustan Unilever, where he mimicked senior officials. His colleagues were so impressed that they started calling him Johnny Lever, a name that stuck and eventually became his identity.
Breakthrough in Bollywood
Johnny’s big break came when he was spotted by the legendary actor Sunil Dutt during a stage performance. Dutt was so impressed that he offered Johnny a role in the film “Dard Ka Rishta” in 19822. This marked the beginning of a prolific career in Bollywood, where Johnny has acted in over 300 films.
Personal Life and Family
Johnny Lever is married to Sujatha, and the couple has two children, Jamie and Jessy. Jamie Lever has followed in her father’s footsteps and is a successful comedian and actress. The father-daughter duo has performed together in numerous shows, showcasing their incredible chemistry and talent.
A Man of Many Talents
Apart from being a comedian, Johnny Lever is also a talented singer and lyricist. He has a deep love for music, particularly ghazals and soothing melodies. His musical talent often finds its way into his performances, adding another layer to his comedic persona.
Despite being born into a Hindu family, Johnny Lever converted to Christianity following a personal miracle. His son was diagnosed with throat cancer, and after a period of intense prayer and faith, his son miraculously recovered. This event had a profound impact on Johnny, leading him to embrace Christianity wholeheartedly.
Pioneering Stand-Up Comedy
Johnny Lever is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of stand-up comedy in India. He began performing in musical shows and quickly gained fame for his unique style and impeccable timing. His contributions to the genre have paved the way for many aspiring comedians in the country.Johnny Lever’s journey from the streets of Mumbai to the heights of Bollywood is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and resilience. His ability to bring laughter to people’s lives, coupled with his lesser-known talents and personal story, makes him a truly remarkable figure in Indian entertainment.