Veteran actor and producer Dheeraj Kumar died at the age of 79 on July 15 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. Reportedly, he was suffering from pneumonia and was admitted to the hospital in a critical condition.
He is survived by his wife and children.
Dheeraj Kumar’s prayer meet
Dheeraj’s family organised a prayer meet in Mumbai on Friday (July 18). The veteran actor and producer’s colleagues and friends attended it to offer their condolences to the bereaved family members. Hema Malini met Kumar’s kin at the prayer meet.
Family issues statement on demise
An official press release from Kumar’s family read, “With profound grief and heavy hearts, we share the passing of veteran actor, producer, director, and beloved human being Dheeraj Kumar on Tuesday, 15th July 2025, around 12 noon, surrounded by his family.”
It further read, “A cherished luminary of the Indian entertainment industry, Dheeraj ji began his illustrious journey as a hero in the 1970 film Raaton Ka Raja. Over the decades, he graced numerous Hindi and Punjabi films, working alongside legends like Dev Anand and Manoj Kumar in classics such as Heera Panna, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Swami.”
The press release mentioned, “Not one to be confined by the screen, he went on to redefine Indian television. As the founder of Creative Eye Ltd, he brought to life iconic mythological and devotional series like Om Namah Shivay, Shree Ganesh, and Jai Santoshi Maa, along with popular family dramas including Ghar Ki Laxmi Betiyan, Ye Pyar Na Hoga Kam, and Ishq Subhan Allah. Through these works, he not only entertained but also enriched countless households with stories of faith, values, and love.”
Remembering Kumar, the family wrote, “Spanning nearly five decades, his career was a testament not just to artistic brilliance but to his remarkable humanity. On every set and in every room, Dheeraj ji greeted people with equal warmth, humility, and respect. His infectious laughter, ever-ready smile, and generous spirit uplifted countless lives – whether offering a kind word, thoughtful guidance, or silent support. To many, he was far more than a celebrated artist. He was a mentor, a confidant, a father figure, and above all, a true gentleman. His legacy is not only in the memorable characters and timeless shows he brought to life but in the countless relationships he nurtured with sincerity and love.”
Acknowledging the support received during the tragic period, the family added, “As we navigate this immense loss, we take solace in knowing that his light will continue to shine through the countless lives he touched. We are deeply grateful for the prayers, love, and support extended to us during this difficult time. Zuby Kochar, Ashutosh Kochar, Inder Kochar, Preeti Kochar – the Kochar Family and the entire team of Creative Eye Ltd.”
Apart from acting in films, he produced many of them under the banner Creative Eye.