Zakir Hussain is an Indian actor known for his appearances in Hindi films, particularly for his negative and comic roles. He has delivered notable performances in movies such as "Sarkar" (2005), directed by Ram Gopal Varma, "Johnny Gaddaar" (2007), directed by Sriram Raghavan, and "Singham Returns" (2014), directed by Rohit Shetty.

Born and raised in Jani Khurd, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Zakir Hussain developed an interest in theatre and cinema during his studies in Delhi. He began his acting journey in small-time theatre productions and later joined the renowned Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts. To further enhance his skills, he enrolled at the prestigious National School of Drama and completed his graduation in 1993.

After gaining experience in theatre, Hussain moved to Mumbai to pursue opportunities in television and films. He initially appeared in serials such as "Firdaus," "Kitty Party," and "Gaatha," which helped him gain recognition. In 2004, he made his film debut with Sriram Raghavan's "Ek Hasina Thi," although his role in the film was limited to two scenes. However, it caught the attention of director Ram Gopal Varma, who subsequently offered him the role of Rashid in "Sarkar." His portrayal of a cold-blooded villain in the film was highly acclaimed, earning him the "New Menace" award at the 2006 Stardust Film Awards.

Following his successful performance in "Sarkar," Zakir Hussain became a regular collaborator with director Ram Gopal Varma, featuring in several of his productions. Another significant role that gained him praise and recognition was Shardul in Sriram Raghavan's "Johnny Gaddaar." The character resonated with the audience to the extent that people on the streets started recognizing him as Shardul. This film not only brought him fame but also improved financial opportunities.

Aside from acting, Zakir Hussain is a talented musician skilled in percussion and singing. It's important to note that he should not be confused with the renowned tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain (born 1951), who also acted in the film "Heat and Dust."

Overall, Zakir Hussain's performances in Hindi films have showcased his versatility and earned him a reputation for portraying negative and comedic characters. With his talent and dedication, he has carved a niche for himself in the Indian film industry.