As "Johnny Walker", staggering around with a trademark whisky bottle, Badruddin Jamaluddin Qazi, who has died aged 79, was the premier comedian of Hindi cinema's golden age, appearing in more than 300 films. Ironically, as a devout Muslim, in real life the screen alcoholic neither drank nor smoked.

One of 12 children of a weaving teacher, he was born in Indore. He left school at 14 when his family was forced to flee to Bombay. While working as a bus conductor, he met the movie star Balraj Sahni, and through him spent time at film studios. His idols were Charlie Chaplin and Noor Mohammad.

Badruddin first appeared on screen in the early 1940s, but his breakthrough came when he caught the eye of director Guru Dutt. Dutt had a comic flair, and provided the Johnny Walker pseudonym. He played the hero in about 12 films, including one entitled Johnny Walker. Such was his popularity that producers recruited him, if only to sing one song.

As Indian film comedy became increasingly crude in the 1970s, Badruddin's career declined. He quit in the early 1980s, and, after a 14-year break, made one last appearance. He was addicted to sport and a successful angler in his youth. He is survived by his actor wife Noor, three sons and three daughters.

· Badruddin Jamaluddin Qazi (Johnny Walker), comedian, born March 23 1924; died July 29 2003.