Veteran television and film star Satish Shah, who was one of India’s most popular television and movie stars, died on October 25, 2025, aged 74. The actor, who is also widely remembered for his iconic roles in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, is said to have died from kidney failure.
Shah was found unconscious at his home in Mumbai and was taken to P. D. Hinduja Hospital & Medical Research Centre. He could not be revived despite multiple attempts at CPR. His death was confirmed by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit and later by several leading media channels, shocking the entertainment industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and many film personalities turned to social media to pay their tributes. The Prime Minister referred to Shah as a “true legend of Indian entertainment,” highlighting his sense of humor and contribution towards Indian television and cinema.
Satish Shah worked for over four decades, playing a role in over 200 movies and some cult television shows. His character of Indravadan Sarabhai from Sarabhai vs Sarabhai turned him into a household name, cherished for his impeccable sense of humor and realistic depiction of the contemporary Indian father figure. In his earlier career, his act in Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi—playing more than 55 different roles—established him as an actor who was versatile as well as talented.
Aside from TV, Shah’s film career also featured iconic appearances in movies such as Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), and Main Hoon Na (2004). His capacity for depicting both humor and emotion set him apart in an industry that was otherwise largely driven by glamour and melodrama.
In previous interviews, Shah would reflect on his early days, sharing that his unorthodox appearance made it hard to get work at first. However, his skill, determination, and timing converted those obstacles into stepping stones for one of India’s most renowned careers in comedy.
While his fans and colleagues mourn his demise with nostalgia, Satish Shah‘s death signifies the end of an era for Indian comedy. His characters, one-liners, and humor will keep working their magic on generations of audiences who have grown up watching his classic work.
