The Indian film industry is in mourning following the passing of veteran actor Satish Shah, a beloved figure renowned for his comedic timing and versatile performances. Shah, who was 74, died on Saturday due to kidney complications, leaving behind a rich legacy in cinema and television. His cremation was attended by close family and industry colleagues, while many Bollywood stars took to social media to express their grief and pay homage to the celebrated artist.
Superstar Amitabh Bachchan shared an emotional reflection on his blog, lamenting the loss of a “young talent” and the ongoing challenges faced by the industry. He expressed the difficulty of maintaining normalcy amidst such sorrow. Salman Khan posted a throwback picture with Shah, reminiscing about knowing him since he was 15 and wishing his soul peace.
Sushmita Sen, who shared screen space with Shah in the hit film ‘Main Hoon Na’, offered her condolences via an Instagram story, thanking him for gracing their lives. Vivek Oberoi penned a touching tribute, recalling Shah’s warmth and kindness, particularly during the filming of ‘Saathiya’, where Shah played a fatherly role. Oberoi highlighted Shah’s memorable portrayal of Indravadan Sarabhai, a character loved by millions.
Numerous other prominent figures, including Priyanka Chopra, Hrithik Roshan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, R Madhavan, Paresh Rawal, Anupam Kher, Johny Lever, Farah Khan, and Karan Johar, also shared their sorrow. Johny Lever, a close friend of Shah’s for over 40 years, expressed disbelief and sadness, remembering their last conversation just two days prior. He emphasized Shah’s significant contributions to film and television.
Farah Khan fondly recalled her experience working with Shah on ‘Main Hoon Na’, describing him as a joy to collaborate with and mentioning his daily sharing of memes and jokes. Anupam Kher shared an emotional video, calling Shah’s demise “shocking” and praising his great general knowledge and humor. Hrithik Roshan remembered the kindness Shah extended to him as a newcomer on set, stating that his humor and legacy would continue to inspire.
Co-stars from the popular show ‘Sarabhai vs Sarabhai’, including Rupali Ganguly, Sumeet Raghavan, Rajesh Kumar, Jamnadas Majethia, and Deven Bhojani, were present at his last rites, bidding a tearful farewell. Satish Shah’s extensive filmography includes iconic roles in ‘Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro’, ‘Hum Saath-Saath Hain’, ‘Main Hoon Na’, ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’, ‘Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa’, ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge’, and ‘Shaadi No. 1’.
