Gems India lost in 2025: From Manoj Kumar, Asrani, Dharmendra to Satish Shah

The year 2025 became one of deep reflection for Hindi cinema and television, as the industry bid farewell to artists whose work shaped storytelling across generations.

From iconic superstars to dependable character actors and creators working quietly behind the scenes, each loss marked the end of a distinct creative era. Together, they represented the emotional, cultural, and artistic backbone of Indian entertainment.

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Manoj Kumar: The Voice of Patriotic Cinema

Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87. Fondly remembered as Bharat Kumar, he became the defining face of patriotic Hindi cinema during the 1960s and 1970s. His films carried strong nationalist ideals and moral conviction, reflecting the aspirations of a young nation. As both actor and filmmaker, he left behind a body of work rooted in purpose and ideology. His death marked the passing of one of Bollywood’s most distinct creative voices.

Deb Mukherjee: A Legacy of Quiet Craft

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 discipline and performance over celebrity. Though never a headline star, his presence carried the weight of cinematic lineage. He was also known as the father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, making his contribution both personal and generational.

Rakesh Pandey: Strength in Supporting Roles

Rakesh Pandey passed away on March 21, 2025, at the age of 77. Known for steady character roles across films and television, he represented the backbone of Indian storytelling. Rarely in the spotlight, his performances added realism and emotional depth, proving that powerful narratives often rest on quietly committed actors.

Salim Akhtar: Shaping Cinema from Behind the Scenes

Producer Salim Akhtar died on April 8, 2025, at 82. Part of a generation that shaped commercial Hindi cinema during transitional phases, he worked largely away from public attention. His contribution lay in backing films and sustaining the industry during changing audience tastes, leaving behind a subtle but lasting impact.

Mukul Dev: A Versatile Talent Lost Too Soon

Mukul Dev passed away on May 23, 2025, at just 54. Known for his work across films, television, and regional cinema, he brought intensity and warmth to every role. His grounded screen presence made him relatable across genres. His untimely death shocked the industry and cut short a career still rich with promise.

Shefali Jariwala: A Pop Culture Phenomenon

Shefali Jariwala died on June 27, 2025, at the age of 42. Rising to fame with Kaanta Laga, she became an icon of early-2000s pop culture. In later years, she reinvented herself through reality television and public engagement. Her sudden passing sent waves of grief across the entertainment world.

Dheeraj Kumar: Bridging Eras of Storytelling

Dheeraj Kumar passed away on July 15, 2025, at 79. An actor and producer, he was known for his work in films and mythological television shows. His career bridged classic Bollywood and India’s television boom, reflecting the evolution of storytelling across decades.

Pankaj Dheer: Immortalised as Karna

Pankaj Dheer died on October 15, 2025, at 68 after battling cancer. Best remembered as Karna from Mahabharat, his powerful portrayal gave dignity and depth to one of Indian mythology’s most complex characters. His performance continues to resonate with audiences even today.

Asrani: Laughter for Generations

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 culture. His impeccable timing and expressive humour defined comedy for generations.

Satish Shah: The Art of Subtle Comedy

Satish Shah died on October 25, 2025, at 74. Loved across films and television, especially for Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, he mastered understated comedy. His restraint and quiet wit proved that humour need not be loud to be unforgettable.

Dharmendra: The Closing of a Living Archive

Dharmendra passed away on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89. One of Bollywood’s greatest superstars, his legendary career spanned romance, action, comedy, and drama across decades. Rarely has an actor remained relevant across so many changing eras of cinema. His passing felt like the closing of a living archive of Hindi film history.

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A Year of Lasting Memories

Together, these losses made 2025 a defining year of remembrance for Bollywood—reminding audiences that while artists leave, their work continues to live on through stories, characters, and timeless emotions.