The Indian film and television industry has been reeling under a series of losses in recent days, with the passing of several celebrated figures. After mourning the deaths of TV personality Shefali Jariwala, veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, and iconic actress B. Saroja Devi, the fraternity is now grieving the demise of actor-producer Dheeraj Kumar. He was 80.
According to reports, Dheeraj Kumar passed away in Mumbai after battling acute pneumonia. His family had earlier stated his critical health condition, requesting prayers and privacy. Sadly, despite receiving intensive care, the veteran could not recover.
Dheeraj Kumar鈥檚 journey in the entertainment industry began in 1965 when he participated in a talent contest alongside Rajesh Khanna and Subhash Ghai. Though Rajesh Khanna won, Dheeraj stood out as one of the finalists and carved a niche for himself in the decades that followed.
He appeared in several Hindi and Punjabi films through the 1970s and 80s, including Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Swami, and Bez