Actor-producer Sudesh Kumar dies at 95 in Mumbai, prayer meet on May 4
Actor and producer Sudesh Kumar died at 95 in Mumbai after health complications. He is survived by his wife and daughter. A prayer meet is scheduled for the late artiste on May 4.
Actor-producer Sudesh Kumar died at the age of 95 in Mumbai. Known for his performances in Hindi cinema from the 1950s to the 1970s, he died at home after being discharged from hospital following breathing-related health issues. A prayer meet is scheduled to be held on May 4.
According to reports, Sudesh had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital on April 27. He was later brought back home at his request, where arrangements were made for his care.
Speaking to The Times of India, his wife Jaya Dhawan said, “At his request, we brought him back home on Thursday where we had set up a makeshift medical unit. But he breathed his last the next morning.”
Born in 1931 in Peshawar, the actor moved to Bombay with his family during his childhood. He began his acting career with small roles in low-budget costume dramas and devotional films before gaining wider recognition.
He became known for his role in Chhoti Bahen (1959), where he played a doctor. The actor shot to fame playing the lead role in Saranga (1961), a tragic love story, and went on to work in films such as Bharosa (1963) and Khandan (1965).
He later ventured into production and produced films including Man Mandir (1971), Ghulaam Begum Baadshah (1973), Uljhan (1975), Badaltey Rishtey (1978), and Jaan Hatheli Pey (1987). He also worked as an assistant director on films like Pyar Ka Bandhan (1963) and Do Badan (1966), adding to his contributions behind the camera.
He married Jaya Naik in 1982. She has featured in advertisements for several cosmetic and food brands. The two had first met as neighbours outside the home of lyricist Rajendra Krishan.
Sudesh Kumar’s funeral was held at Shivaji Park crematorium in Mumbai on Friday, May 1.