Bollywood Celebrities Who Breathed Their Last In 2024
Posted On: 09 Jan 2024 | Last Updated : 19 Dec 2024 | Views : 25.5k
Just like any other year Bollywood will continue having its share of releases, comebacks, blockbusters, disasters, trends, weddings and deaths and more in 2024 too. The year 2024 recorded the loss of several notable and prominent Bollywood celebrities which has left many of their fans sad and disillusioned. As they say what comes has to perish one day and our beloved celebrities are no different who contributed to the film industry in their own little way leaving behind memories for their fans to cherish. Here is a look at all the Indian stars who passed away this year. As a tribute to the departed souls, we take a look at the list of famous Bollywood celebrities who breathed their last in 2024:
1. Ustad Rashid Khan (Playback Singer / Vocalist) (DoB: 01 July 1968, DoD: 09 January 2024)
Noted music maestro Ustad Rashid Khan passed away at a hospital in Kolkata on 09 January 2024 at the age of 55. The classical singer and a recipient of the Padma Bhushan in 2022, who belonged to the Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana, was suffering from prostate cancer and was kept on ventilator support before breathing his last. Born in Uttar Pradesh's Badayun, Ustad Rashid Khan was the nephew of Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, and received his initial training from his maternal grand-uncle Ustad Nissar Hussain Khan. Some of his well-known songs were from films like Manto, Ishqeria, Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, Hate Story 2, Issaq, Raaz 3, Mausam, My Name Is Khan, Jab We Met and Kisna. He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.
2. Bhavatharini (Music Director / Playback Singer) (DoB: 23 July 1976, DoD: 25 January 2024)
Noted Tamil and Hindi playback singer and composer Bhavatharini died on 25 January 2024 at the age of 47 in Sri Lanka while undergoing treatment for liver cancer. Bhavatharini was the daughter of music maestro Ilaiyaraaja and sister of music directors Karthik Raja and Yuvan Shankar Raja. She won the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer in 2000 for the Tamil song, 'Mayil Pola Ponnu Onnu' from Bharathi. She made her singing debut in Tamil in the film Raasaiyya (1995), in which she sang the popular song ‘Masthana Masthana’ along with Arunmozhi and S.N. Surendar. She turned music director for the 2002 film Mitr, My Friend, directed by Revathy and later also composed music for Revathy’s Phir Milenge (2004), starring Salman Khan, Shilpa Shetty and Abhishek Bachchan. She is survived by her husband R. Sabariraj.
3. Sreela Majumdar (Actress) (DoB: 1958, DoD: 27 January 2024)
Acclaimed Bengali and Hindi film actress Sreela Majumdar breathed her last in Kolkata on 27 January 2024 at the age of 65 after suffering from cancer for the past three years. Born in 1958, Sreela Majumdar was known for her roles in 'parallel' as well as mainstream cinema where she made her acting debut in Mrinal Sen’s Bengali film Parasuram in 1979 and later appeared in films like Ek Din Pratidin, Kharij, Mon Mayuree, Chokh, Phiriye Dao, Chirodiner and Parcel. Her last film was Palanin 2023. She also acted in Hindi films including Ek Pal, Damul, Khandhar, Mandi and Arohan. She lent her voice to Aishwarya Rai in Chokher Bali. She is survived by her husband and son.
4. Sadhu Meher (Actor, Director & Producer) (DoB: 01 January 1940, DoD: 02 February 2024)
Veteran Hindi and Odia actor, producer and director Sadhu Meher passed away at the age of 84 at his residence in Mumbai on 02 February 2024 due to age-related issues. Born at Manamunda in Subarnapur district of Odisha, Sadhu Meher was an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India and one of the actors who gained prominence by playing crucial roles in Bollywood’s new wave cinema by making his acting debut in Mrinal Sen’s Bhuvan Shome in 1969. He later went on to act in Hindi and Odia films like Ankur, Manthan, Mrigayaa, Inkaar, Bhukha, Seeta Raati, Debshishu, Safed Haathi, Nishant, etc. He directed the first children’s sci-fi Odia movie Babula (1985). He was awarded the National Film Award for Best Actor in 1974 for his role as Kistaya in the Hindi film Ankur and became the first Odia star to win a National Award. He was conferred with Padma Shri in 2017 for his contribution to Indian cinema.
5. Kavita Chaudhary (Actress) (DoB: 1957, DoD: 15 February 2024)
Well-known television and film actress, writer, producer and director Kavita Chaudhary breathed her last at a hospital in Amritsar after suffering a heart attack on 15 February 2024, at the age of 67. Fondly remembered for her role as an IPS officer in the 1989 television show Udaan, Kavita was also a part of other well-known TV series such as Apradhi Kaun, Raj Se Swaraj, Your Honour, IPS Diaries and Karrle Tu Mohabbat, etc. She was also well-known as Lalitaji in the Surf detergent advertisement in the 80s. Born in 1957, she was an alumnus of the National School of Drama and had acted in a couple of Hindi movies including Tum Laut Aao (1983) and Ek Aur Suhagan (1992). She has been suffering from cancer for a few years.
6. Suhani Bhatnagar (Actress) (DoB: 14 June 2004, DoD: 16 February 2024)
Child artist Suhani Bhatnagar who played the role of a young Babita Phogat in the Aamir Khan starrer Dangal (2016), died on 16 February 2024 at the age of 19 at AIIMS, New Delhi. According to her parents, Suhani was suffering from dermatomyositis, a rare inflammatory disease that causes skin rash and muscle weakness. She had played one of the four on-screen daughters of Mahavir Phogat (played by Aamir Khan) in Nitesh Tiwari’s Dangal while the grown-up version was played by Sanya Malhotra.
7. Rituraj Singh (Actor) (DoB: 23 May 1964, DoD: 19 February 2024)
Television and film actor Rituraj Singh died of cardiac arrest at a Mumbai hospital on 19 February 2024 at the age of 59. Rituraj began his career on the small screen by playing host on Zee TV’s popular game show, Tol Mol Ke Bol in 1993 after which he acted in TV shows like Banegi Apni Baat, Jyoti, Hitler Didi, Shapath, Warrior High, Aahat, Adaalat, Diya Aur Baati Hum. He also featured in films such as Satyameva Jayate 2, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, Hum Tum Aur Ghost, Tum Mile, Jersey, Yaariyan 2, and Vash: Possessed by the Obsessed. Some of the web series he appeared in included The Test Case, Hey Prabhu, Criminal, Abhay, Bandish Bandits, Never Kiss Your Best Friend, and Made in Heaven Season 2.
8. Ameen Sayani (Broadcaster) (DoB: 21 December 1932, DoD: 20 February 2024)
Veteran radio announcer and broadcaster Ameen Sayani breathed his last in Mumbai on 20 February 2024 after suffering a heart attack at the age of 91. The iconic radio presenter is remembered for hosting the popular show 'Binaca Geetmala' which was broadcast since 1952 over Radio Ceylon and later over Vividh Bharati for over 42 years. Ameen Sayani produced, compiled and presented over 54,000 radio programs and 19,000 spots/jingles since 1951. He presented many popular movies over the years, such as Benaam, Warrant, Fakira, Bairaag, Sargam, Mr. Natwarlal, Kaalia, Saagar, Andaz Apna Apna, etc. He appeared as an announcer, commentator and interviewer in movies like Teen Devian, Bhoot Bungla, Aan Baan, Boxer, Qatl, Hamara Khandan, Pati Patni Aur Tawaif and others.
9. Kumar Shahani (Director) (DoB: 07 December 1940, DoD: 24 February 2024)
Veteran filmmaker and screenwriter Kumar Shahani died at the age of 83 at a hospital in Kolkata due to age-related health issues. Famous for being a part of India’s parallel cinema, Kumar Shahani made short as well as feature films such as Maya Darpan, Tarang, Khayal Gatha, Kasba and Char Adhyay, etc. His debut directorial film Maya Darpan (1972) won him the Filmfare Award – Best Film (Critics) as well as the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi while Khayal Gatha (1989) won him the Filmfare Award – Best Film (Critics). He also received the Filmfare Award – Best Film (Critics) for Kasba and the National Film Award for Best Biographical Film for Bhavantarana (Oriya documentary) in 1991. He is survived by his wife and two daughters.
10. Pankaj Udhas (Playback Singer) (DoB: 17 June 1951, DoD: 26 February 2024)
Legendary ghazal and playback singer Pankaj Udhas breathed his last on 26 February 2024 in Mumbai at the age of 72 due to a prolonged illness. Born in 1951, Pankaj Udhas started his career by releasing the ghazal album, Aahat in 1980 followed by hit albums like Mukarar (1981), Tarrannum (1982), Mehfil (1983), etc. Some of his big ghazal hits were Chaandi Jaisa Rang Hai Tera, Aur Ahista Kijiye Baatein, Ek Taraf Uska Ghar, and Thodi Thodi Piya Karo, etc. His big Bollywood break came in Mahesh Bhatt’s Naam in 1986 with the song Chitthi Aayi Hai, Chaandi Jaisa Rang Hai from Ek Hi Maqsad (1998), Aaj Phir Tumpe from Dayavan (1988), Jeeyein To Jeeyein Kaise from Saajan (1991), Na Kajre Ki Dhaar from Mohra (1994) and others. He was a recipient of many awards including the Padmashri in 2006. He is survived by his wife Farida Udhas, daughters Nayaab and Reva Udhas, and brothers Nirmal and Manhar Udhas, who are also singers.
11. Chander H. Bahl (Director) (DoB: N.A., DoD: 01 March 2024)
Noted Hindi and Punjabi film writer, director and editor, Chander Bahl passed away on 01 March 2024 due to age-related issues. Son of famous music director Hansraj Bahl, Chander Bahl started his career as an assistant director in films like Bandhe Haath and Shakka before making his directorial debut with the Mithun Chakraborty – Ranjeeta starrer Sun Sajna in 1982. He later directed films including Sun Meri Laila (1983), Mehak (1985), Pyaasi Mamta (1986), Hukumat Jatt Di (1990) and Janani (2006), etc. He directed many Hindi and Gujarati TV serials including Piya Ka Ghar (2002), Ranbir Rano (2008), Jode Rejo Raaj (2022) and others.
12. Dhirajlal Shah (Producer) (DoB: N.A., DoD: 11 March 2024)
Bollywood producer Dhirajlal Shah who bankrolled several hit films in the 1990s and early 2000s including Vijaypath, Gambler, Krishna, and The Hero: Love Story of a Spy, died in Mumbai on 11 March 2024 due to multiple organ failure. He began his career as a producer in 1994 by producing Vijaypath, starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu and Danny Denzongpa. He later went on to produce big films like Hu Tu Tu (1999), Kurukshetra (2000), Jodi No.1 (2001) and Kismat (2004), etc. He is survived by his wife, Manju Dhiraj Shah, two daughters – Sheetal Punit Goel and Sapna Dhiraj Shah, son - Jimit Shah and daughter-in-law - Poonam Shah.
13. Kamlesh Awasthi (Playback Singer) (DoB: 1945, DoD: 28 March 2024)
Celebrated veteran Gujarati and Hindi film playback singer Kamlesh Awasthi breathed his last at 78 at his residence in Ahmedabad on 28 March 2024. Fondly known as the ‘Voice of Mukesh’, Kamlesh Awasthi was in a coma for a month and undergoing treatment before suffering a cardiac arrest. Born in 1945 in Savarkundla, he started his singing career by releasing his first music album 'Tribute to Mukesh' and thereafter sang many Gujarati and Hindi film songs. Some of his memorable songs include ‘Zindagi Imtihaan Leti Hai’ from Naseeb (1981), ‘Tera Saath Hai Toh’ from Pyaasa Sawan (1981), ‘Cheen Nahin Japan Nahin’ from Gopichand Jasoos, and Oonch Neech Beech (1989). He continuously performed in stage shows earning him a reputation in the regional music scene.
14. Gangu Ramsay (Cinematographer / Producer) (DoB: 1944, DoD: 07 April 2024)
Veteran cinematographer and producer of Bollywood’s horror genre, Gangu Ramsay died of prolonged illness at 80 in Mumbai on 07 April 2024. One of the seven Ramsay Brothers known for their cult horror flicks and son of producer F.U. Ramsay, Gangu Ramsay began his career by turning cinematographer for Do Gaz Zameen Ke Neeche in 1972. This was followed by horror flicks like Darwaza, Saboot, Purani Haveli, Telephone, Hotel, Tehkhana and Dhund: The Fog. He also produced films such as Mahakaal, Purani Haveli and Tahkhana. He is survived by a daughter Geeta and a son Chander Ramsay.
15. Sangeeth Sivan (Writer / Director) (DoB: 1959, DoD: 08 May 2024)
Renowned Hindi and Malayalam film writer and director, Sangeeth Sivan passed away at the age of 65 on 08 May 2024 while undergoing treatment at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital following a cardiac arrest. Born in 1959 in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Sangeeth Sivan marked his debut as a director in Malayalam films with Vyooham in 1990. He made his Bollywood directorial debut in 1998 with the Sunny Deol starrer Zor and followed it up with films including Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne, Kyaa Kool Hai Hum, Apna Sapna Money Money, Ek: The Power of One, Click, Yamla Pagla Deewana 2 and Kapkapiii. He had worked with popular actors like Dharmendra, Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Mohanlal, Tusshar Kapoor, Riteish Deshmukh, Shreyas Talpade and others. He is survived by his wife, Jayashree, and children, Sajana and Shanthanu.
16. Firoz Khan (Actor) (DoB: N.A., DoD: 23 May 2024)
Bollywood and television actor Firoz Khan who was known for mimicking Amitabh Bachchan died of a heart attack in his home town Badaun, Uttar Pradesh on 23 May 2024. Often addressed as junior Amitabh Bachchan, he rose to fame by shooting for popular TV serials including Bhabi Ji Ghar Pe Hai, Jija Ji Chhat Par Hai, Saheb Bibi Aur Boss, Happu Ki Ultan Paltan and Shaktimaan. As far as Bollywood films were concerned, he worked in Phool Aur Aag, Kabhi Kranti Kabhi Jung, Munnibai, Duplicate Sholay, Helicopter Eela, and others.
17. Sikander Bharti (Director) (DoB: 1964, DoD: 24 May 2024)
Ace writer and director Sikander Bharti breathed his last on 24 May 2024 due to cancer in Mumbai at the age of 60. Sikander Bharti started his career in Bollywood as an assistant director to Shibu Mitra and was known for working across various genres with popular stars like Rajesh Khanna, Akshay Kumar and Govinda. He was known for bringing diverse stories and memorable characters to life on screen. He made his directorial debut in 1989 with Ghar Ka Chiraag and later directed movies such as Rupaye Dus Karod, Police Wala, Sainik, Zaalim, Do Fantoosh, Bhai Bhai, Sar Utha Ke Jiyo, Dand-Nayak and Rangeela Raja. He is survived by his wife, Pinky, and their three children, Sipika, Yuvika, and Sukrat.
18. Ramoji Rao (Producer) (DoB: 16 November 1936, DoD: 08 June 2024)
Veteran film producer, distributor, media baron and businessman Cherukuri Ramoji Rao passed away on 08 June 2024 at Hyderabad at 87 after ailing from age-related issues. Born in 1936 in Pedaparupudi, Madras Presidency, Ramoji Rao not only owned the world's largest film production facility Ramoji Film City but also spearheaded some of the biggest newspapers, TV channels, hotels and food companies. He launched his production banner company, Usha Kiron Movies in 1984 by producing two Telugu films - Srivariki Premalekha and Kanchana Ganga. He produced more than 50 films in Malayalam, Bengali, Kannada, Tamil and Hindi including movies like Nache Mayuri (1986), Pratighaat (1987), Tujhe Meri Kasam (2003), Thoda Tum Badlo Thoda Hum (2004) and others. He won four Filmfare Awards South, five Nandi Awards and the National Film Award and was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan in 2016.
19. Smriti Biswas (Actress) (DoB: 17 February 1924, DoD: 03 July 2024)
Veteran yesteryear actress Smriti Biswas died following age-related issues at the age of 100 on 03 July 2024 at her residence in Nashik city in Maharashtra. The versatile actress worked in several Hindi, Marathi and Bengali films, starting as a child artiste in the Bengali movie Sandhya (1930). She featured in movies of notable filmmakers like Guru Dutt, V. Shantaram, Mrinal Sen, Bimal Roy, B. R. Chopra and Raj Kapoor. Some of her popular co-stars were actors like Dev Anand, Kishore Kumar, Pradeep Kumar, Shekhar and Balraj Sahni while some of her well-known Hindi movies were Chandni Chowk (1954), Shikar (1955), Baap Re Baap (1955), Bhagam Bhag (1956), Jagte Raho (1956), Sailaab (1956), Dilli Ka Thug (1958), Daaka (1959) and Modern Girl (1961). She had quit acting after marrying filmmaker S. D. Narang who passed away in 1986. She is survived by her two sons - Rajeev and Satyajeet Narang.
20. Menaka Irani (Actress) (DoB: 12 July 1945, DoD: 26 July 2024)
Veteran actress and mother of choreographer Farah Khan and Sajid Khan, Menaka Irani died in Mumbai on 26 July 2024 at the age of 79. Menaka Irani wasn’t keeping well after undergoing multiple surgeries in the last few months. She was the eldest of the famous Irani sisters including child actresses Daisy Irani and Honey Irani. She had worked in only one film which was Bachpan (1963), produced by her parents, P. N. Irani and Sarosh Irani starring Salim Khan. She later married filmmaker and actor Kamran Khan in 1964 who died in 1988.
21. Nari Hira (Producer, Publisher & Entrepreneur) (DoB: 26 January 1938, DoD: 23 August 2024)
Renowned journalist, publisher, editor, entrepreneur, and film producer, Nari Hira passed away at the age of 86 in Mumbai on 23 August 2024. Born in Karachi in 1938, Nari Hira started his career as a journalist and later turned publisher by launching Stardust magazine in 1971 which featured shocking controversies, sensationalized stories, and gossip related to Bollywood and its celebrities and became a huge success. He later published magazines such as Savvy, Showtime, Society and Health under ‘Magna Publishing Co. Ltd’. He often was referred to as the ‘King of Indian Magazines’ and received several awards for his contributions to Indian publishing. He was once honoured with the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ from the Indian Magazine Congress. In the mid-80s, he ventured into producing video films under the banner of ‘Hiba Films’ and made films like Scandal, Shingora, Shahadat, Khatarnak Irade, etc. He also produced Bollywood films including Bhram: An Illusion, Accident on Hill Road, and Apartment: Rent At Your Own Risk, etc.
22. Asha Sharma (Actress) (DoB: 26 October 1936, DoD: 25 August 2024)
Veteran TV and film actress Asha Sharma breathed her last at 87. Mostly known for her supporting roles as an on-screen mother, her acting career spanned over five decades. She made her debut in 1975 with Kagaz Ki Nao and went on to play roles in more than 200 films, of which some of her notable works were in movies like Janbaaz, Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak, Chandni, Baaghi, Hum, Damini, Krantiveer, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam, Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai, and others. She last appeared in Prabhas and Kriti Sanon's film Adipurush, released in 2023. She featured in TV shows like Kumkum Bhagya, Mann Ki Awaaz Pratigya and Ek Aur Mahabharat.
23. Suhasini Deshpande (Actress) (DoB: 1942, DoD: 27 August 2024)
Well-known actress Suhasini Deshpande died at her residence in Pune on 27 August 2024. Suhasini made significant contributions not only to Marathi cinema but also to Hindi films. She began her acting career at 12 and starred in more than 100 films spanning over seven decades. She was known for her versatile performances in Marathi films including Maanachan Kunku (1981), Dalimbi (1982), Ami Dhoge Raja Rani (1986), Ranragini (2004), Aai Shapath...! (2006), Chiranjeev (2016), Dhondi (2017), Chhanda Preeticha (2017), and Bakal (2019). She also acted in two Hindi films, including Katha (1983) and Singham (2011).
24. Vikas Sethi (Actor) (DoB: 12 May 1976, DoD: 08 September 2024)
Prominent TV and Bollywood actor, Vikas Sethi passed away in his sleep on 8 September 2024 at Nashik at the age of 48. Born in Chandigarh in 1976, Vikas Sethi was a well-known face in the 2000s who worked in popular shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahiin To Hoga, Kasautii Zindagi Kay, and Sasural Simar Ka, etc. He also appeared in supporting roles in movies like Deewaanapan (2001), Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001), and Oops! (2003). He was last seen in the Telugu movie iSmart Shankar in 2019. He leaves behind his wife, Jhanvi Sethi, and their twin sons.
25. Vipin Reshammiya (Producer) (DoB: 05 May 1940, DoD: 18 September 2024)
Composer and actor, Himesh Reshammiya’s father, Vipin Reshammiya, passed away in Mumbai due to age-related issues at 84. Vipin Reshammiya had been hospitalized in Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital on 18 September 2024 where he breathed his last. He was known for producing films such as Insaf Ki Jung (1988), The Xposé (2014) and Teraa Surroor (2016), both starring Himesh Reshammiya, and composed music for the unreleased film Insaaf Ka Suraj (1990). Despite being a skilled composer, he focused on helping his son Himesh develop his talent and support him in his musical journey.
26. Rajat Poddar (Production Designer) (DoB: 26 February 1971, DoD: 27 September 2024)
Renowned production designer and art director, Rajat Poddar died of a cardiac arrest in London on 27 September 2024 at 53. He was one of the most popular production designers of Bollywood film industry who designed sets for many films, including Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Fighter, Pathan, Barfi, Jagga Jasoos, Jabariya Jodi, Baaghi, Crook, Kites, Raaz and others. He also worked as an art director in films like Murder, Jannat, Awarapan, No Problem, Hattrick, Woh Lamhe, The Killer, Gangster, Kalyug, Nazar, Zeher, etc.
27. Atul Parchure (Actor) (DoB: 30 November 1966, DoD: 14 October 2024)
Veteran Marathi and Hindi film, TV and stage actor Atul Parchure passed away on 14 October 2024 in Mumbai at the age of 57. The actor, who was known for his comedic roles, had been suffering from cancer for a long time. He started his acting career as a child artist in the 1985 Marathi film, Khichdi and later marked his Bollywood debut in Bedardi in 1993. His other notable works include Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani (2000), Tumsa Nahin Dekha (2004), Yakeen (2005), Kyon Ki... (2005), Kalyug (2005), Phir Hera Pheri (2006), Awarapan (2007), All the Best (2009), Khatta Meetha (2010), Bbhuddah… Hoga Tera Baap (2011), Judwaa 2 (2017) and Liger (2022), etc. He was last seen in 'The Kapil Sharma Show' and the Marathi film Alibaba Aani Chalishitale Chor (2024).
28. Mangesh Kulkarni (Screenwriter, Lyricist) (DoB: 1948, DoD: 19 October 2024)
Marathi and Hindi film screenwriter and lyricist Mangesh Kulkarni passed away due to ill health on 19 October 2024 at 76. He debuted as a screenwriter with the Marathi film Lapandav in 1993. He soon shifted to writing Bollywood films, including Yes Boss (1997), Ghulam-E-Musthafa (1997), Dil Kya Kare (1999), Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho Gaya (2000), Awara Paagal Deewana (2002), etc. He also penned the lyrics for the Marathi film Hee Porgi Kunachi, and popular serials like Abhalmaya, Wadalwat and Nana Patekar's directorial debut Prahaar (1991).
29. Rohit Bal (Designer / Actor) (DoB: 08 May 1961, DoD: 01 November 2024)
One of India's finest fashion designers, Rohit Bal, who put Indian fashion on the global map by dressing many celebrities at home and away, including Bollywood, died at a New Delhi hospital on 01 November 2024 at the age of 63. Born in Srinagar, Kashmir, in 1961, Rohit Bal began his designing career in 1986 after graduating from Delhi's St. Stephens College and later completing his education in fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Delhi. He was known for blending India's rich cultural heritage with contemporary styles for men and women. After that, he started his label with several stores in India, the Middle East, and Europe. He featured in cameos in Bollywood films like Monsoon Wedding, Love You Hamesha, and Boom, etc. He had styled some of Amitabh Bachchan's costumes for 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'.
30. Helena Luke (Actress) (DoB: 1956, DoD: 03 November 2024)
Noted Bollywood actress of the 80s, Helena Luke, who acted in popular movies like Judaai (1980), Saath Saath (1982), Yeh Nazdeekiyan (1982), Bhai Aakhir Bhai Hota Hai (1982), Aao Pyar Karen (1983), Do Gulaab (1983), Romance (1983), Mard (1985), etc., passed away in America due to an unknown illness at the age of 68. She was married to Mithun Chakraborty in 1979, which ended within four months. After quitting acting in 1986, she shifted to New York and worked for an airline as a flight attendant.
31. Tony Mirchandani (Actor) (DoB: N.A., DoD: 04 November 2024)
Actor - writer, Tony Mirchandani was a popular face in the TV and film world who passed away in Hyderabad on 04 November 2024 due to health problems. He was known for playing complex characters on screen in films like Gadar: Ek Prem Katha (2001), Market (2003), Koi... Mil Gaya (2003), Musafir (2004), Wajahh: A Reason to Kill (2004), Tezaab: The Acid of Love (2005) and New York (2009). He was last seen in the English film Ender's Game (2013). He is survived by his wife Rama Mirchandani and daughter Shloka Mirchandani.
32. Sharda Sinha (Playback Singer) (DoB: 01 October 1952, DoD: 05 November 2024)
Reputed folk and classical singer Sharda Sinha breathed her last in New Delhi on 5 November 2024. Born in 1952, Sharda Sinha died due to age-related health issues and was suffering from multiple myeloma for a while. She predominantly sang in Maithili, Hindi, and Bhojpuri language films and was popularly known as 'Bihar Kokila', the 'Cuckoo of Bihar'. Her folk songs mainly included 'Vivah Geet' and 'Chhath Geet' for which she was honoured with the Padma Shri award, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2000, and the Padma Bhushan in 2018. She made her Bollywood playback singing debut in Rivaaj in 1972 and thereafter sang in popular films like Papi Pet Ka Sawaal Hai (1984), Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), Gangs of Wasseypur Part II (2012), and others.
33. Delhi Ganesh (Actor) (DoB: 01 August 1944, DoD: 09 November 2024)
Popular veteran Tamil, Malayalam and Hindi language film actor Delhi Ganesh breathed his last at the age of 80 in Chennai on 09 November 2024 following health complications. His five-decade acting career included over 400 films, web series, and television serials. He marked his acting debut in director K. Balachander's Tamil film Pattina Pravesam in 1976. Some of his most memorable roles were in films like Sindhu Bhairavi (1985), Nayakan (1987), Apoorva Sagodharargal (1989), Michael Madana Kama Rajan (1990), Aahaa..! (1997), and Thenali (2000), etc. He appeared in a few Hindi films too which included, Dus (2005), Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani (2009), Chennai Express (2013) and Hindustani 2 (2024).
34. Ustad Zakir Hussain (Musician, Actor) (DoB: 09 March 1951, DoD: 15 December 2024)
Indian tabla maestro Ustad Zakir Hussain breathed his last in San Francisco, California on 15 December 2024, at the age of 73. He was keeping unwell for sometime until complications arised due to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Born in Mumbai in 1951, Ustad Zakir Hussain took to the table after his father and tabla maestro Ustad Allahrakha Khan at the age of 3. He donned many hats that of a composer, percussionist, music producer, playback singer, lyricist and actor. He was a recipient of many popular international and national awards including the Padma Shri (1988), Padma Bhushan (2002), Padma Vibhushan (2023), and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1990). Some of his notable Bollywood films as a composer were - Mr. & Mrs. Iyer, The Perfect Murder, Muhafiz, Agni Varsha, Parzania, Everybody Says I'm Fine, and Saaz in which he played the male lead. He is survived by his wife Antonia Minnecola, and daughters, Anisa Qureshi and Isabella Qureshi.
