Veteran Actor-Producer Dheeraj Kumar Passes Away at 80 in Mumbai After Pneumonia Battle
Mumbai: Dheeraj Kumar, a celebrated actor and television producer, died at 80 on July 15 in Mumbai. He was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital earlier this week due to severe breathing difficulties caused by pneumonia. Despite being placed on ventilator support in the ICU, Kumar succumbed to cardiac arrest.
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The family requested privacy during his critical condition, according to reports.IANS reported the family’s statement: “We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Dheeraj Kumar, a distinguished actor, producer, and director. He was under treatment at Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri West, on ventilator support. The entertainment industry has lost a remarkable talent whose contributions were immense. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues. May his soul find peace.”
Who Was Dheeraj Kumar?
Born on October 1, 1944, Dheeraj Kumar was married to Zuby Kochar. His career in entertainment began in 1965, notably as a finalist in a talent contest alongside Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna, with Khanna taking the top spot. Kumar starred in 21 Punjabi films between 1970 and 1984. He later founded Creative Eye, serving as its chairman and managing director.
Kumar appeared in films like Heera Panna and Raton Ka Raja, and was featured in the iconic song “Ka Karun Sajni, Aaye Na Balam” from Swami. Through Creative Eye, he produced over 35 television shows, including popular religious series like Om Namah Shivay and beloved programs such as Adalat, Mili, and Ghar Ki Laxmi Betiyan, earning widespread admiration from audiences.