Pradeep Rawat Death: Prabhu Deva, Nandamuri Balakrishna And Others Pay Tribute To ‘Extraordinary Human Being’

The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Pradeep Rawat, who passed away at the age of 74 after battling cancer. Known for his memorable villainous roles across Hindi, Telugu, Tamil and several other film industries, Rawat left an indelible mark with his commanding screen presence and versatile performances. Following the heartbreaking news, several celebrities, including Prabhu Deva, Nandamuri Balakrishna, Vishnu Manchu and Ajaz Khan, took to social media to express their grief and extend condolences to his family. Many remembered him not only as a celebrated performer but also as a kind, humble and deeply respected colleague.

Prabhu Deva deeply mourned Pradeep Rawat’s demise. Sharing a heartfelt note on X, he said he was “deeply saddened” by the veteran actor’s passing and extended his condolences to Rawat’s family and loved ones. He concluded his tribute by praying that the late actor’s soul “rest in peace.”

Vishnu Manchu also expressed grief over the loss, calling the news “deeply saddening.” Remembering Rawat’s duality, he said the actor brought “immense power” to every role on screen but was “humble, simple, warm, and truly down to earth” off screen. He extended his condolences to Rawat’s family, friends and admirers while praying for them to find strength and for the actor’s soul to rest in eternal peace.

Nandamuri Balakrishna described him as a  ” whose memorable villainous performances across Telugu, Hindi and Tamil cinema would live on forever. Offering his deepest sympathies to Rawat’s family and fans, Balakrishna also prayed for peace for the departed soul.

Riteish Deshmukh also took to his X and wrote, “I had the privilege of working with Pradeep Rawat ji… a true gentleman with a giant laughter. The room filled with laughter whenever he was around. My deepest condolences to the family and loved ones. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Ajaz Khan shared an emotional remembrance, calling   “not just an extraordinary actor” but “an even more extraordinary human being.” Reflecting on the years they worked together, he fondly recalled their time on film sets and travels, praising Rawat’s kindness, humility and simplicity. He added that the veteran star would always be remembered not only for his powerful performances but also for the “beautiful soul” he was.

Veteran actor Pradeep Rawat passed away on August 4 at the age of 74 after battling blood cancer. Hospitalized in Mumbai for over a month following a relapse, he is survived by his wife and son. With a career spanning more than four decades, Rawat became one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated screen villains, earning acclaim for roles in Mahabharat, Sarfarosh, Lagaan, Ghajini and several South Indian films. His final Hindi release was Chhaava, while Gaayapadda Simham marked his last released film.