MUMBAI, July 15 — Veteran actor, director, and producer Dheeraj Kumar, a prominent figure in both Hindi and Punjabi cinema and a trailblazer in Indian television, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 79. He died of pneumonia at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he had been admitted to the intensive care unit over the weekend.
“He passed away this morning at 11 AM. He was suffering from pneumonia and had been running a fever with cold and cough. Due to his age and condition, he was admitted to the ICU,” said family friend and close associate Ajay Shukla. His last rites will be held on Wednesday at Pawan Hans Crematorium.
Kumar’s family confirmed his death in a statement that described him as “a true gentleman” and “a father figure, friend, and guide to many.” “He was always laughing, always giving, and always present—for his family, friends, and the industry at large,” the family said.
Dheeraj Kumar’s journey in show business began with a talent contest in 1965, where he emerged as a finalist alongside future stars Rajesh Khanna and Subhash Ghai. He made his acting debut with the 1970 film Raaton Ka Raja and rose to fame with supporting roles in notable films such as Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), Sargam (1979), and Kranti (1981).
Between 1970 and 1984, Kumar was a well-known face in Punjabi cinema, appearing in over 20 films during that period.
In 1986, Kumar turned his focus to television and established Creative Eye Limited, a production house that would go on to redefine the landscape of Indian television. Under his leadership, the company delivered enduring mythological and family drama serials including Om Namah Shivay (1997–2001), Shree Ganesh, Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyann, Rishton Ke Bhanwar Mein Uljhi Niyati, and the courtroom drama Adalat.
Colleagues and admirers from the industry have described Kumar as not just a versatile creative force but also a mentor and visionary who nurtured talent and maintained deep bonds across generations in the entertainment world.
His passing marks the end of an era in Indian entertainment — one that spanned over five decades, leaving behind a rich legacy of work in both cinema and television.
