The year 2025 became a deeply reflective period for Bollywood, as the industry bid farewell to several artists whose work shaped Hindi cinema and television across generations. From legendary stars to quietly dependable performers, each loss marked the end of a distinct creative chapter.
Manoj Kumar
Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Fondly known as Bharat Kumar, he became the face of patriotic cinema in Hindi films during the 1960s and 1970s. His storytelling was rooted in nationalism and moral conviction, reflecting the aspirations of a young nation. His death marked the passing of one of Bollywood’s most ideologically defined filmmakers and actors.
Deb Mukherjee
Deb Mukherjee died on March 14, 2025, at 83. A veteran actor from the respected Mukherjee-Samarth family, he belonged to a generation that valued craft over celebrity. While never a headline star, his presence carried the weight of cinematic legacy. He was also known as the father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji.
Rakesh Pandey
Rakesh Pandey passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 77. He was known for steady character roles across Hindi films and television. Rarely in the spotlight, Pandey represented the backbone of Indian storytelling, actors who made narratives believable without demanding attention. His death was a quiet but meaningful loss.
Salim Akhtar
Producer Salim Akhtar died on April 8, 2025, at 82. He was part of a generation that worked behind the scenes shaping commercial Hindi cinema. Though not a public figure, his role in backing films during crucial industry transitions was significant. His contribution remained subtle but lasting.
Mukul Dev
Mukul Dev passed away on May 23, 2025, at the age of 54. Known for his work across films, television, and regional cinema, he brought intensity and warmth to his performances. His grounded screen presence made him relatable across genres. His untimely death shocked the industry and cut short a versatile career.
Shefali Jariwala
Shefali Jariwala died on June 27, 2025, at 42. She rose to fame with Kaanta Laga and became a pop culture icon of the early 2000s. In later years, she reinvented herself through reality television and public appearances. Her sudden passing sent waves of grief across the entertainment world.
Dheeraj Kumar
Dheeraj Kumar passed away on July 15, 2025, at the age of 79. An actor and producer, he was known for his work in films and mythological television shows. He represented a bridge between classic Bollywood and India’s television boom. His career spanned multiple eras of storytelling.
Pankaj Dheer
Pankaj Dheer died on October 15, 2025, at 68 after battling cancer. He remains best remembered as Karna from the iconic Mahabharat series. His powerful portrayal gave depth and dignity to one of Indian mythology’s most complex characters. His performance continues to resonate with audiences decades later.
Asrani
Asrani passed away on October 20, 2025, at the age of 84. One of Hindi cinema’s most iconic comic actors, his characters became part of everyday Indian pop culture. His impeccable timing and expressions defined humour for generations. Few comedians left behind such a lasting legacy of laughter.
Satish Shah
Satish Shah died on October 25, 2025, at 74. Loved across films and television, especially for Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, he mastered understated comedy. His performances proved that restraint could be just as powerful as exaggeration. He remained a scene-stealer without ever raising his voice.
Dharmendra
Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. One of Bollywood’s greatest superstars, his career spanned romance, action, comedy, and drama across decades. He remained relevant across changing eras of cinema. His passing felt like the closing of a living archive of Hindi film history.
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