Beloved veteran actor Mushtaq Khan died at the age of 56 on Thursday, September 24. He died after suffering a relapse of lung cancer just eight days ago. The star was admitted to Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai after a significant decline in his health. He was first diagnosed with the disease five years ago.
Business Partner Confirms Death
The news was confirmed by his business partner Shivam Yadav, who explained he had recovered from his initial diagnosis after treatment. However, the disease sadly returned.
"He passed away around 7pm on Thursday. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer earlier and had recovered. However, it relapsed eight days ago, and he had to be admitted to the hospital. It was last-stage cancer," Shivam told Hindustan Times City.
Career and Tributes
Shivam and Mushtaq Khan worked together on online event-management projects and on the podcast Badi Baat, which they co-hosted and produced. Mushtaq's family have yet to make a statement, but tributes have flooded in for the star as the news became public.
Taking to Facebook, one user penned: "A heartbreaking loss for Indian cinema...Hearing about his passing at just 56...feels completely surreal. It is so devastating that someone who brought so much laughter into our lives had to fight such a painful battle in his final days. Thank you, Mushtaq ji, for being the reason behind so many of our smiles. The screens will be emptier without you, but the laughter you left behind will echo forever. Rest in peace, legend. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones."
Another added: "Bollywood today has lost a gem in the form of the veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, who is best known for his memorable roles in films like Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Jodi No.1, Welcome and many others. Another legend has passed away this year. May his Soul Rest In Peace."
A third chimed in: "RIP Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, who left a lasting impression with his performances in films like Welcome, Aashiqui, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke and Krantiveer, has passed away at the age of 56 after battling liver cancer. Heartfelt condolences and a respectful tribute. May his soul rest in peace."
A fourth shared: "A very versatile and unique actor. Blended comedy with negative traits excellently." Meanwhile, a fifth reflected: "Rest in eternal peace, dear Mushtaq ji. Remember your talented acting and always smiling face. Love you."
Film Legacy
Mushtaq made his film debut in 1980 with a small role in the drama Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai. He went on to appear in several films during the 1980s, including Thodisi Bewafaii, Kaalia, and Kabzaa.
However, it was in the 1990s that he achieved huge fame with movies such as 1990's Aashiqui, 1991's Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, 1993's Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, 1996's Chaahat and 1998's Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha. He continued his prolific streak into the aughts with roles in 200's Hera Pheri, 2001's Jodi No. 1, 2004's Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and 2007's Welcome, among others.
He still has 19 productions awaiting release, which will now hit screens posthumously.
