Mumbai: Renowned actor and producer Dheeraj Kumar, celebrated for his role in Manoj Kumar’s Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and for producing popular television series like Om Namah Shivay and Adalat, has died at a local hospital, as confirmed by a family friend on Tuesday. He was 79.

Kumar had been battling acute pneumonia and was receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Actor B Saroja Devi passes away at 87, remembered by Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, and others
“He passed away this morning at 11:00 am due to pneumonia at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He had been unwell and was admitted to the hospital on Saturday with symptoms of fever, cold, and cough. His admission to the ICU was necessary due to his age,” said Ajay Shukla, a close associate and family friend of Kumar, in a statement to PTI.

Shukla mentioned that Kumar’s last rites are scheduled to take place at Pawan Hans Crematorium on Wednesday. The family of Kumar has confirmed the news of his passing in an official statement.

“With deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved veteran actor, producer, and director Dheeraj Kumar on Tuesday, 15th July 2025, around 12 noon, surrounded by his family…

“He was a person who always laughed, always gave, and was always present—for his family, friends, and the industry as a whole. A true gentleman, he served as a father figure, friend, and mentor to many. He will be remembered not only as an actor but also as a gentle soul and a true gentleman. We appreciate everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time,” the family expressed.

Dheeraj Kumar’s career spanned over five decades in both film and television.

He began his career in the entertainment industry as a finalist in a 1965 talent competition that also included superstar Rajesh Khanna and filmmaker Subhash Ghai.

He went on to star in numerous Hindi and Punjabi films, starting with the 1970 film Raaton Ka Raja, which he led. He subsequently took on supporting roles in films such as Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), Sargam (1979), and Kranti (1981). In the realm of Punjabi cinema, Kumar emerged as a key figure, featuring in more than 20 films from 1970 to 1984. In 1986, he established Creative Eye Limited, a production company that significantly influenced the development of Indian television.

Under his guidance, the firm produced well-known mythological and family dramas such as Om Namah Shivay, which aired on Doordarshan National from 1997 to 2001, along with Shree Ganesh, Rishton Ke Bhanwar Mein Uljhi Niyati, Adalat, and Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyann.