Mumbai, Oct 25: Renowned actor Satish Shah, celebrated for his iconic roles in television classics like Sarabhai Vs Sarabhai and films such as Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Main Hoon Na, and Kal Ho Naa Ho, passed away today at the age of 74. As per reports, the veteran actor had been battling kidney-related ailments.
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit confirmed the news on social media, expressing his grief: “Sad and shocked to inform you that our dear friend and a great actor, Satish Shah, has expired a few hours ago due to kidney failure. He was rushed to Hinduja Hospital, where he breathed his last. A great loss to our industry. Om Shanti.” Pandit also shared a video message, stating that Shah suddenly fell ill at home and was taken to Hinduja Hospital, Shivaji Park, where he was declared dead. “His body will be brought to his residence in Bandra. It’s a huge loss for our industry. I have worked a lot with Satish — he was a great man,” Pandit added.
Meanwhile, Shah’s personal assistant of over 30 years, Ramesh Kadatala, said the actor passed away at his Bandra East residence in the afternoon. “It seems he suffered a heart attack, though we’re awaiting the doctor’s final report,” he said.
Shah’s last post on X (formerly Twitter) was a nostalgic tribute to Shammi Kapoor, featuring a picture with the late actor and Govinda, captioned: “Happy B’day dearest Shammi ji. You are always around me.”
Born on June 25, 1951, Shah had an illustrious career spanning over four decades. A graduate of St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, he appeared in numerous hit films including Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000), Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), Fanaa (2006), and Om Shanti Om (2007). He was last seen on screen in Humshakals (2014).
Shah rose to fame with Kundan Shah’s 1983 cult classic Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, where he played the unforgettable role of corrupt Municipal Commissioner D’Mello. The satirical masterpiece, featuring Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, and Pankaj Kapur, remains one of Indian cinema’s greatest comedies.
A Kutchi Gujarati from Mandvi, Shah’s contributions extended beyond acting — in 2015, he was appointed as a member of the Film and Television Institute of India Society. He is survived by his wife, designer Madhu Shah.
The film fraternity and fans across the nation mourn the loss of one of Indian entertainment’s most loved and versatile performers. (Agencies)
