[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 138 (Thursday, September 24, 2015)]
[Senate]
[Page S6934]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING ANUPAM KHER

 Mr. BOOKER. Mr. President, today I would like to recognize 
Anupam Kher, an Indian actor who has inspired many through a legacy of 
theater and film spanning more than three decades. Anupam Kher is one 
of India's most prominent theatre and film personalities. His 
contributions to Hindi and English-language film and culture are 
tremendous, and his exceptional career as an actor, producer, teacher, 
and author will serve as an inspiration for generations to come.
  Born in 1955 in Himachal Pradesh, India, Anupam had a modest 
upbringing. After graduating from the D.A.V. School, in Shimla, Anupam 
attended the National School of Drama, to which he would later return 
as director. He was chair of Central Board of Film Certification from 
2003-2004, after which the Government of India awarded him the 
prestigious Padma Shri for his contributions to Indian cinema. Anupam 
has appeared in over 100 plays and over 450 films, and he is considered 
one of the greatest actors of contemporary cinema.
  In addition to his dramatic work, Anupam is an active voice for 
change, and he regularly speaks out against corruption and inequality. 
The United Nations recently recognized his efforts, honoring him as a 
``Champion of Gender Equality'' for his work on their HeForShe 
campaign. In 2010, he was appointed as the goodwill ambassador of the 
Pratham Education Foundation, which strives to improve children's 
education in India. It is inspiring to see an actor dedicate his time 
and celebrity to promote social change.
  It is an honor to serve a State with one of the largest Indian 
American diasporas in the country, and we were thrilled to host a 
talent such as Anupam Kher, whose career has made an indelible 
impression across the globe. Anupam's commitment to the arts is 
unwavering, and his myriad contributions to theatrical arts are a 
testament to his dedication to his craft. Anupam has touched countless 
lives and has changed the way the world views Bollywood and India. His 
work is worthy of the highest commendation.
  I hope my colleagues will join me in celebrating Anupam Kher's 
continued success.

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