Happy birthday Arjun Rampal: Rare photos, lesser-known facts about Rock On actor

Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal turns 43 on Thursday, 26 November, 2015.

The model-turned-actor made his acting debut in the romantic entertainer "Pyaar Ishq Aur Mohabbat" (2001), for which he received many prestigious awards, as well as a nomination for the Best Male Debut Filmfare Award.

The actor, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, has also received awards for his performances in the films including "Dil Hai Tumhaara" (2002), "Dil Ka Rishta" (2003), "Asambhav" (2004), "Yakeen" (2005), "Don" (2006), "Om Shanti Om" (2007), "Rock on!" (2008), "Housefull (2010) and "Ra.One" (2011).

He will be next seen in Farhan Akhtar and Shraddha Kapoor-starrer "Rock On 2".

Let's take a look below at some lesser-known facts about the birthday boy.

• Arjun is a cousin of actress Kim Sharma.

• The handsome hunk is an animal lover, and is also an active member of PETA.

• After Arjun's parents' separation, the actor lived with his mother and studied in the school where his mother was a teacher.

• In 1994, Arjun Rampal was announced Society's Face of the Year.

• The actor initially struggled in his modelling career. It was fashion designer Rohit Bal who spotted the young model at an industry party, and impressed by his looks, helped Arjun become successful.

• Arjun's wife, Mehr Jesia is a former supermodel and Miss India.

 Check out above the slideshow of Arjun's rare photos.