Mumbai, October 25, 2025 - Veteran Bollywood actor Satish Shah, renowned for his comedic timing and memorable performances, has passed away at the age of 74. Shah, best known for his roles in iconic films and television shows such as "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro" and "Sarabhai vs Sarabhai", died on Saturday due to kidney failure.
The news was confirmed by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who shared a video message on social media mourning the loss of his friend. Pandit revealed that Shah passed away at Hinduja Hospital in Mumbai after being rushed there due to sudden illness at home.
Satish Shah's career spanned over four decades, during which he became a household name in India. He was celebrated for his versatility, portraying a wide range of characters with impeccable comedic flair. His portrayal of Indravadhan Sarabhai in the television sitcom "Sarabhai vs Sarabhai" earned him a cult following and introduced him to a new generation of viewers.
Shah's journey in the film industry wasn't without challenges. Despite graduating from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), he faced initial struggles in landing roles. He humorously recounted instances where his looks were considered a disadvantage in an era when actors were often selected based on their black and white photographs. However, Shah persevered, taking on smaller roles until he got the opportunity to work in the film "Shakti" (1982), which he considered his first taste of stardom.
One of Shah's most iconic roles was in the 1983 satire "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro", where he played a dead body that comes to life. His performance was widely acclaimed, and he often joked about how he was allowed to improvise and react to the scenes, adding his own comedic touch.
In later years, Shah continued to entertain audiences with his roles in films like "Main Hoon Na" and "Om Shanti Om". In "Main Hoon Na", he played Professor Rasai, a character with a peculiar spitting condition. Shah revealed that Shah Rukh Khan had convinced him to take up the role and that the shooting was filled with laughter, with SRK often unable to control his amusement during the spitting scenes.
Despite his success, Shah remained grounded and appreciative of his craft. He acknowledged the respect he received as an FTII graduate but also spoke about the importance of hard work and perseverance in the industry. He was known for his dedication to his roles and his ability to bring a unique comedic perspective to each character he played.
Satish Shah is survived by his wife, Madhu Shah, a designer. His last on-screen appearance was in the reboot of "Sarabhai vs Sarabhai" in 2017. The actor's passing has left a void in the Indian film and television industry, with colleagues and fans expressing their condolences and remembering him for his immense talent and contribution to the world of comedy.
