NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday condoled the death of veteran actor Satish Shah , describing him as a legend who brought laughter to millions through his work in films and television.
In a post on X, the prime minister said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Satish Shah Ji. He will be remembered as a true legend of Indian entertainment . His effortless humour and iconic performances brought laughter into countless lives. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Shah, 74, passed away at his residence in Bandra East in the afternoon, according to Ramesh Kadatala, his trusted aide and personal assistant for over 30 years. A close friend and collaborator added that the actor had undergone a kidney transplant three months ago, reported PTI.
Born on June 25, 1951, Shah was a graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and a celebrated figure in Indian cinema and television. He began his career with small roles in films such as Arvind Desai Ki Ajeeb Dastaan (1978) and Gaman (1979).
He played a pivotal role as Dilawar in Muzaffar Ali’s Umrao Jaan (1981), the man who sells Rekha’s Amiran to courtesans in Lucknow. His breakthrough came with Kundan Shah’s 1983 cult classic Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, where he portrayed the corrupt municipal commissioner D’Mello — a performance that remains iconic to this day.
Over the decades, Shah earned acclaim for his impeccable comic timing and versatility in films such as Maalamaal, Hero Hiralal, Main Hoon Na, and Kal Ho Naa Ho. He also became a household name through his portrayal of Indravadan Sarabhai in the popular TV sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai.
Shah was married to designer Madhu Shah. His last rites will be performed at Pawan Hans cremation ground on Sunday.
In a post on X, the prime minister said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Satish Shah Ji. He will be remembered as a true legend of Indian entertainment . His effortless humour and iconic performances brought laughter into countless lives. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Satish Shah Ji. He will be remembered as a true legend of Indian entertainment. His effortless humour and iconic performances brought laughter into countless lives. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 25, 2025
Shah, 74, passed away at his residence in Bandra East in the afternoon, according to Ramesh Kadatala, his trusted aide and personal assistant for over 30 years. A close friend and collaborator added that the actor had undergone a kidney transplant three months ago, reported PTI.
Born on June 25, 1951, Shah was a graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and a celebrated figure in Indian cinema and television. He began his career with small roles in films such as Arvind Desai Ki Ajeeb Dastaan (1978) and Gaman (1979).
He played a pivotal role as Dilawar in Muzaffar Ali’s Umrao Jaan (1981), the man who sells Rekha’s Amiran to courtesans in Lucknow. His breakthrough came with Kundan Shah’s 1983 cult classic Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, where he portrayed the corrupt municipal commissioner D’Mello — a performance that remains iconic to this day.
Over the decades, Shah earned acclaim for his impeccable comic timing and versatility in films such as Maalamaal, Hero Hiralal, Main Hoon Na, and Kal Ho Naa Ho. He also became a household name through his portrayal of Indravadan Sarabhai in the popular TV sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai.
Shah was married to designer Madhu Shah. His last rites will be performed at Pawan Hans cremation ground on Sunday.
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