Rakesh Bedi mourns the death of his dear friend Satish Shah: 'One of the saddest days of my life'

Rakesh Bedi mourns the loss of his deat friend Satish Shah

Following the unexpected death of adored veteran actor Satish Shah on Saturday at the age of 74 from kidney failure, the Indian entertainment industry is in mourning.

His health reportedly took an unexpected turn at home, and he was rushed to P.D. Hinduja Hospital, where he breathed his last, leaving behind an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who knew him.

Actor Rakesh Bedi, whose relationship with Shah extended well beyond their work partnerships, is one of the people most impacted. The two worked together on the famous 1984 sitcom Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, which became a cultural phenomenon, after being classmates at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII).

Their bond off-screen was as strong as their on-screen chemistry, and their friendship lasted for decades, including multiple film projects like Teesra Kaun (1994).

In an emotional tribute shared on Instagram, Rakesh Bedi struggled to find words for his grief, his voice heavy with emotion. “I don’t know how to say it. I am feeling very very emotional. In fact, I’m finding it difficult to talk also. My dearest friend, very very dear friend Satish Shah…He was my batchmate in FTII, my classmate, we did Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi together. We did so many films together. He is no more. Today he has passed away. The emotions which I am feeling are very difficult to put into words. One of the saddest days of my life. Satish Shah. I loved him a lot. Rest in peace bro,” he said, his heartbreak palpable.

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A post shared by Rakesh Bedi (@therakeshbedi)

In his caption, he added, “RIP bro Satish Shah. A great actor and a very very dear friend.”

Shah’s career spanned over four decades, touching cinema, television, and theatre, and he left an indelible mark with his memorable roles, impeccable comic timing, and warm persona.

Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, starring Shah alongside Rakesh Bedi, Swaroop Sampat, and Shafi Inamdar, remains one of Indian television’s most cherished shows, and Shah’s contribution to its magic is fondly remembered.

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit confirmed the heartbreaking news, writing, “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.”