Veteran actor, producer, and director Dheeraj Kumar passed away on 15 July at the age of 79 at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, leaving the Indian entertainment industry in mourning.
His decades-long contribution to Indian television and film left a rich legacy that impacted millions of viewers of all ages.
Babita ji, also known as Munmun Dutta, of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah fame, was one of those who came to pay their last respects. In expressing her condolences and paying tribute to a man who influenced Indian television during its early years, the actress was recently seen at the late producer's funeral.
With Raaton Ka Raja, Dheeraj Kumar launched his remarkable acting career in 1970 and immediately became a well-liked hero in his era.
He costarred with movie stars Amitabh Bachchan, Dev Anand, and Manoj Kumar in several well-known productions over the ensuing ten years. His roles in Sargam, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Swami, Heera Panna, and Beharoopia were among the notable appearances. He made a name for himself in Punjabi cinema in addition to Hindi cinema, appearing in more than 21 films from 1970 to 1984.
However, it was in television where Dheeraj Kumar truly became a household name behind the scenes. In 1986, he founded Creative Eye Ltd, a production house that went on to deliver some of the most memorable shows on Indian TV.
From mythological epics like Om Namah Shivay, Shree Ganesh, and Jai Santoshi Maa to popular family dramas like Ghar Ki Laxmi Betiyan, Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam, and Ishq Subhan Allah, his influence on Indian storytelling is undeniable.
His final rites took place at the Pawan Hans cremation ground in Mumbai at 11 am on Wednesday. Earlier, his remains were brought home from the hospital at 6 am and kept at his residence—Sky Deck building, SAB TV lane, near Shabri Hotel, Andheri West—for final darshans.
The industry, his admirers, and colleagues continue to pour in tributes, remembering a man whose work enriched Indian entertainment across mediums.
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