The news was shared by her son, filmmaker Kanu Behl, who posted a heartfelt tribute on social media alongside a photograph from her younger days. In his message, he described her as “My Titan. My faith. Love. Guide. Mentor. My heart,” adding, “Go well, mumma. Until you birth me again. My eyes shall always seek that irrepressible smile, that warm chuckle, that bear hug, those burning curious eyes. Forever alight. Thank you for lighting my soul.”
Navnindra Behl enjoyed a distinguished career spanning theatre, Punjabi cinema and television, as well as selective but impactful roles in Hindi films. She was particularly recognised for her work in Vishal Bhardwaj’s Khufiya (2023), her most recent screen appearance, along with Dibakar Banerjee’s Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! and Vikas Bahl’s Queen, where she appeared alongside Kangana Ranaut.
Beyond feature films, she built a strong presence on Indian television, earning affection for her roles in popular serials such as Dil Boley Oberoi and Ishqbaaaz, the latter earning her the endearing tag of “Dadi” among fans and co-stars.
A multifaceted talent, Behl also contributed as a writer and director, notably in the Punjabi entertainment industry, where she left a lasting legacy before venturing into Hindi projects.
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The film and television fraternity expressed profound grief and paid glowing tributes. Among those mourning her loss were actors Harshvardhan Kapoor, Ranveer Shorey, and Anurag Kashyap; producers Guneet Monga and Rekha Bhardwaj; and others including Arati Kadav and Vijay Maurya. Her Ishqbaaaz co-star Nakuul Mehta offered condolences, writing, “Deepest condolences to Duniya, Sneha and you.”
The cause of death was not disclosed in reports, though some sources indicated she passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 16, 2026. Married to veteran actor-director Lalit Behl—who predeceased her—the actress is remembered as a guiding force in both her personal and professional spheres.
Her departure marks the end of a remarkable journey that bridged regional and national storytelling with warmth and authenticity.
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