Veteran Actor-Producer Dheeraj Kumar Passes Away at 80 Due to Cardiac Arrest and Pneumonia

Renowned for his work in films like Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and Sargam, Dheeraj Kumar passed away in Mumbai after being on life support. The industry mourns the loss of a visionary who also founded Creative Eye.

Mumbai, July 15, 2025:
Veteran actor, producer, and director Dheeraj Kumar passed away at the age of 80 on Tuesday, July 16, after suffering from breathing complications and pneumonia. He was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, on Saturday, July 12, where he was placed on ventilator support in the ICU.

His family confirmed that he died due to cardiac arrest following a critical battle with respiratory illness.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dheeraj Kumar, a renowned actor, producer, and director, who left us due to cardiac arrest. He was under treatment at Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri West and was on ventilator support,” the family said in an official statement.
“The industry mourns the loss of a talented professional who contributed significantly to the world of entertainment. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”

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🎬 A Prolific Career Across Film and Television

Dheeraj Kumar entered the Indian entertainment industry in 1965 and carved a niche for himself with his performances in acclaimed Hindi films such as:

• Roti Kapda Aur Makaan
• Sargam
• Kranti
• Swami (where the iconic song “Ka Karoon Sajani, Aaye Na Balam” was picturized on him)
• Heera Panna
• Raaton Ka Raja

From 1970 to 1984, Kumar acted in 21 Punjabi films, establishing himself as a household name in regional cinema as well.

He was also one of the finalists in a talent contest that included the legendary Rajesh Khanna and Subhash Ghai, with Khanna eventually winning the competition.

🛡️ Creative Eye and Spiritual Beliefs

Apart from acting, Dheeraj Kumar founded the production company Creative Eye Ltd., where he served as Chairman and Managing Director. The company became a known name in television, producing popular mythological and family shows.

Recently, Dheeraj Kumar had attended the inaugural ceremony of the ISKCON temple in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. In a deeply spiritual moment, he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for supporting the propagation of Sanatan Dharma.

“I came here with a sense of humility. While they called me the VVIP, I believe the true VVIP is God… The spiritual importance of phrases like ‘Radhe Radhe Krishna Krishna’ is very significant, and I feel peaceful visiting this temple,” he had said during the event.

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🕯️ In Memoriam

Dheeraj Kumar’s death marks the end of an era — a career spanning nearly six decades across film, television, and spirituality. His contributions to Indian cinema and his legacy as a producer and mentor will continue to inspire future generations of storytellers and artists.