Veteran Actor-Producer Dheeraj Kumar Dies at 80 After Battle With Pneumonia
Renowned actor, producer, and director Dheeraj Kumar passed away on Tuesday in Mumbai at the age of 80. He was undergoing treatment for pneumonia and breathing complications at Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri West, where he had been admitted on July 12. According to his family, he had been on life support in the ICU and ultimately succumbed to cardiac arrest.
In an official statement, the family expressed, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dheeraj Kumar. The industry mourns the loss of a talented professional who contributed significantly to the world of entertainment. May his soul rest in peace.
Dheeraj Kumar began his career in 1965 and gained early recognition as a finalist in a talent contest alongside Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna. Although Khanna won the competition, Kumar’s journey in cinema and television created a lasting legacy. He starred in films such as *Roti Kapda Aur Makaan*, *Sargam*, *Kranti*, *Heera Panna*, and *Raaton Ka Raja*. In the film *Swami*, the memorable song “Ka Karoon Sajani, Aaye Na Balam” was picturized on him.
He also acted in 21 Punjabi films between 1970 and 1984, becoming a familiar face in regional cinema. Later, he ventured into production and established Creative Eye Ltd., where he served as Chairman and Managing Director. The company played a vital role in shaping Indian television content in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Dheeraj Kumar was also spiritually inclined and recently attended the inauguration of the ISKCON temple in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts in supporting Sanatan Dharma, stating, “The true VVIP is God.”
The Indian entertainment fraternity is mourning the loss of a stalwart who deeply contributed to cinema, television, and spiritual discourse. His legacy continues through his works and the memories he created for generations of viewers.
