Veteran Actor and Producer Dheeraj Kumar Passes Away at 79 After Battle with Pneumonia

Veteran television actor and producer Dheeraj Kumar passed away on Monday at the age of 79 after being treated for pneumonia.

He had been admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in critical condition and was placed on ventilator support in the ICU.

Hospitalisation and Final Moments

His family and production house earlier issued a statement requesting privacy while he was undergoing treatment. “Dheeraj Kumar is under the close supervision of doctors and is undergoing treatment. The family is praying for his speedy recovery and also requests everyone to maintain his privacy during this difficult time,” the statement read.

He passed away on July 15 due to cardiac arrest. His mortal remains were brought home early the next morning and kept for final respects until 10 am.

The cremation took place at the Pawan Hans cremation ground in Vile Parle West at 11 am. His last rites were attended by several industry colleagues including Deepak Parashar, Raza Murad, and Surendra Pal.

Official Confirmation and Industry Tributes

In a statement released on Tuesday, his family said, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dheeraj Kumar, a renowned actor, producer, and director, who left us due to cardiac arrest. He was under treatment at Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri West and was on ventilator support.

The industry mourns the loss of a talented professional who contributed significantly to the world of entertainment. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”

Later, Creative Eye Limited, his production house, issued a heartfelt tribute: “Dheerajji treated everyone with equal warmth and respect—regardless of stature—offering a smile, a kind word, or help whenever needed.

He was always laughing, always giving, and always present—for his family, friends, and the industry at large. A true gentleman, he was a father figure, friend, and guide to many.

He will be remembered not just as an actor, but as a mentor, a gentle soul, and a true gentleman. We thank everyone for their prayers and support during this time.”

A Career Rooted in Cinema

Dheeraj Kumar entered the entertainment industry in 1965 and gained early recognition as one of the finalists of a talent contest alongside Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna, the latter being the winner.

His filmography includes notable Hindi films like Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Swami, Kranti, Heera Panna, Raaton Ka Raja, and Sargam. In Swami, the famous song “Ka Karoon Sajani, Aaye Na Balam” was picturised on him.

Between 1970 and 1984, he acted in 21 Punjabi films, cementing his place in regional cinema.

His recent public appearance was at the inauguration of the ISKCON temple in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, where he expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sanatan Dharma.

Speaking at the event, he said, “I came here with a sense of humility. While they called me the VVIP, I believe the true VVIP is God.”

Pioneering Contribution to Indian Television

Apart from acting, Dheeraj Kumar was a significant contributor to Indian television. He founded Creative Eye Limited, a production house that became synonymous with mythological and spiritual programming.

He produced landmark shows like Om Namah Shivay, Shree Ganesh, Jai Santoshi Maa, Jap Tap Vrat, and the popular social drama Ishq Subhan Allah.

His contributions helped redefine primetime television content in India, with a focus on Indian culture and values.

Legacy of a Visionary

Dheeraj Kumar’s influence extended far beyond acting. As chairman and managing director of Creative Eye Limited, he shaped content that reached millions of households across the country.

He remained active in both film and television till the very end, and his recent attendance at the prayer meeting of veteran actor Manoj Kumar, his co-star in Kranti, showcased his enduring ties to the industry.

A well-respected figure known for his humility and warmth, Kumar’s passing leaves a deep void in Indian entertainment.

With a career spanning nearly six decades, Dheeraj Kumar will be remembered as a true stalwart of both the silver screen and the small screen.