Satish Shah had developed an infection after a kidney transplant, reveals JD Majethia

Satish Shah had a kidney failure

The Indian television and film fraternity continues to mourn the loss of veteran actor Satish Shah, who passed away at the age of 74 on Saturday due to kidney failure. The Sarabhai vs Sarabhai actor, known for his impeccable comic timing and decades-long career in entertainment, had been battling health issues in recent months, according to his close friend and Sarabhai vs Sarabhai creator JD Majethia.

Speaking to Hindustan Times, JD Majethia expressed his grief, saying, “Yes, it breaks my heart to confirm that my close friend Satish Shah is no more.” He revealed that the actor was rushed to the hospital after collapsing at his Mumbai residence, but unfortunately, “it was too late.”

Majethia added, “At the moment, the doctors at the hospital are doing some formalities. Other information and cremation details will also be shared later tonight.”

Opening up about Satish Shah’s recent health struggles, JD revealed that the veteran actor had undergone a kidney transplant a few months ago and had since developed an infection. “Satish Shah was not feeling well for the past few months. Unka kidney transplant hua tha, and infection hogaya (He underwent a kidney transplant and later developed an infection). He was on the road to recovery initially, but later developed an infection,” JD shared.

Also Read: Remembering Satish Shah: The legend who redefined Indian television comedy

Despite his health battles, Shah’s positivity remained unwavering. Majethia fondly recalled that the actor was optimistic about returning to work soon. “However, I spoke to him the day before yesterday, he was sounding so healthy and positive. He was talking about shooting something in November. But God had other plans,” he said.

The producer further revealed that he had intended to visit his dear friend last week but couldn’t make it as it was late at night. Recalling his final interaction with Satish, Majethia said, “My whole family spoke to him. I had a habit of calling him whenever I was near his place to check if I should drop by. I did the same day before yesterday.”

“He told me that he was actually going to sleep, said ‘next time milte hai (let’s meet some other time). Now, that next time will never come,” JD added.

Also Read: Satish Shah remembered Shammi Kapoor in a heartfelt post a day before his death

Satish Shah’s demise was earlier confirmed by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who shared a heartfelt video message on Instagram, “Sad and shocked to inform you that our dear friend and a great actor Satish Shah has expired 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.”

Over a five-decade career, Satish Shah became one of India’s most beloved comic actors. From Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro to Main Hoon Na and Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, his characters—full of warmth, wit, and charm—continue to bring smiles to audiences even today.