Bollywood has long shared a deep connection with cricket. From Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan to Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, many stars have expressed their passion for the game.
But few can match the devotion of actor Shafi Inamdar, a beloved name from the 1980s and 1990s, whose life story took a tragic turn because of his love for cricket.
Known for his effortless performances in both films and television, Inamdar lived a life full of art, emotion, and sportsmanship. Yet, it was this same passion that ultimately claimed him – a shocking and emotional chapter in Bollywood history that few remember today.
“I Had a Heart Attack While Watching a Cricket Match”
As colleagues fondly recall, Shafi Inamdar was “a die-hard cricket lover.” Whether on set or on stage, he never missed a chance to check the score. Crew members remember how he would often ask, “Score kya hua?” between takes, and would rush to the nearest television during breaks.
On March 13, 1996, during the India vs. Sri Lanka semi-final match of the Cricket World Cup, tragedy struck. As India collapsed in the chase, Inamdar reportedly couldn’t bear the sight of his team’s defeat. Overwhelmed with emotion, he suffered a fatal heart attack and passed away the same evening. “Cricket was his heartbeat,” said a close theatre associate years later. “It’s heartbreaking that the game he loved so much became the reason for his last breath.”
From Theatre to the Silver Screen
Born in Dapoli, Ratnagiri, Shafi Inamdar was originally a Konkani who later moved to Mumbai for education. It was during his college years that he discovered theatre – a discovery that changed the course of his life.
He began with Gujarati and Marathi theatre, where his strong command of language and his understanding of social themes earned him respect. He worked with esteemed groups like the National Theatre of India and the Indian People’s Theatre Association (IPTA). His performances were often described as deeply empathetic and socially conscious.
Journey to Bollywood Fame
Shafi made his film debut in “Vijeta” (1982), directed by Govind Nihalani and produced by Shashi Kapoor. He followed it with memorable roles in “Ardh Satya” (1983), where he played Inspector Haider Ali, and in films like Anokha Rishta, Nazrana, Sada Suhagan, and Amrit.
However, his real claim to fame came with Doordarshan’s iconic sitcom “Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi”, which made him a household name. His portrayal of the relatable and witty husband resonated with audiences across India. He later appeared in shows such as Aadha Sach Aadha Jhoot, Ghalib, and Badshah Jahangir.
The Director Within
Not just an actor, Shafi Inamdar also ventured into direction. His directorial debut, “Hum Dono” (1995) starring Nana Patekar, Rishi Kapoor, and Pooja Bhatt, earned critical praise for its storytelling and performances. It proved that Inamdar was a creative force both in front of and behind the camera.
Unfortunately, his promising journey was cut short just a year later, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, passion, and cinematic brilliance.
Story Highlights
- Shafi Inamdar died of a heart attack on March 13, 1996, while watching the India vs. Sri Lanka World Cup semi-final.
- A passionate cricket lover, he often watched matches even during film shoots.
- Rose to fame through “Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi”, one of Doordarshan’s most popular sitcoms
- Made his directorial debut with “Hum Dono” (1995), starring top Bollywood actors.