Categories
Renowned actor and producer Dheeraj Kumar passed away on 15 July 2025 at age 80 in Mumbai after battling pneumonia. Read his journey from Bollywood and Punjabi films to founding Creative Eye studio.
Veteran Actor‑Producer Dheeraj Kumar Passes Away at 80
A Stalwart of Hindi & Punjabi Cinema
Renowned actor, producer, and director Dheeraj Kumar (born Dheeraj Kochar on 1 October 1944) passed away on 15 July 2025 at the age of 80. He breathed his last at 11:40 am at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, following a prolonged battle with pneumonia. His demise marks the end of an era for Indian entertainment.
From Talent Show Finalist to Screen Icon
Dheeraj’s journey began in 1965, when he emerged as one of the top finalists in a landmark talent contest that also featured Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna. Though Khanna took the crown, Dheeraj’s performance launched a career spanning multiple decades in film and television.
Notable Film Contributions
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Dheeraj left his mark both in Hindi and Punjabi cinema:
- Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974) – A pivotal social drama he featured in .
- Swami (1977) – Famous for the song “Ka Karoon Sajani…”, picturised on him .
- Beharoopiya (1971), Heera Panna, Raaton Ka Raja – Other notable Hindi credits .
- Punjabi Cinema – Acted in 21 Punjabi films between 1970 and 1984.
Creative Eye & Rise in Television Production
In 1986, he founded Creative Eye Limited, becoming a trailblazer in the Indian television space. Under his leadership, Creative Eye produced several acclaimed shows:
- Mythological epics: Om Namah Shivay, Shree Ganesh, Jai Santoshi Maa
- Drama and courtroom series: Adaalat, Milee, Maayka
These serials earned him widespread acclaim and a lasting legacy in visual storytelling.
Final Days & Legacy
Hospitalized earlier this week due to acute pneumonia, Dheeraj was placed on ventilator support in the ICU at Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri West. His son, Ashutosh Kumar, was by his side when he passed at 11:40 am on 15 July 2025.
His death has deeply saddened fans and industry peers alike. The entertainment community remembers him not just for his versatile roles, but also for nurturing quality television through Creative Eye .
Honours, Awards & Recognition
Dheeraj earned several accolades during his career:
- Awarded a Lifetime Achievement honor by The Times of India in 2012 .
- Received industry-wide recognition as Creative Eye set new standards in devotional and mythological television programming.
His pioneering approach to televised storytelling has inspired countless producers, writers, and directors across India.
Personal Side & Spiritual Journey
Born in Tambu Wala village, Fazilka (Punjab) on 1 October 1944, Dheeraj held an MA in Music and another in Theatre from Panjab University . Known for his serene demeanor, he remained largely private about his family life.
In recent times, he was seen visiting the ISKCON temple in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, expressing his admiration for its spiritual significance and praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dedication to Sanatan Dharma.
Final Tribute & Moving Forward
Dheeraj Kumar is survived by his wife, Zuby Kochar, and son Ashutosh Kumar. His passing leaves a significant void in the entertainment world, but his contributions across film and television will continue to inspire future generations of storytellers.
Reflecting on a Legacy
- Dheeraj Kumar (1944–2025): Actor, producer, director
- Pivotal Roles: Sargam, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, Beharoopia
- Punjabi Impact: Starred in 21 regional films
- Creative Eye Founder: Brought mythological and dramatic serials to TV
- Honored: 2012’s Lifetime Achievement Award by Times of India
His dynamic career demonstrated that depth in performance and dedication to quality production can coexist with commercial success. He leaves behind a rich body of work that reshaped Indian mainstream and television narratives.
READ ALSO…..Two Men Allegedly Assaulted and Forced into Sexual Acts Over Financial Dispute in Mumbai 2025
