Mukul Dev Death at 54: Bollywood Mourns the Loss of a Versatile Talent
By Mohammad Bitullah, Dhakapost Dot Net
Published: May 24, 2025
The Indian film industry is grieving the sudden loss of actor Mukul Dev, who passed away on Friday, May 23, in Delhi at the age of 54. Known for his remarkable performances in films such as Son of Sardaar, R… Rajkumar, Jai Ho, and Yamla Pagla Deewana, Mukul Dev’s untimely demise has left a profound void in Bollywood. His versatility, warmth, and dedication to his craft have been celebrated by colleagues and fans alike, with tributes pouring in across social media platforms.
Mukul Dev’s Final Days and Legacy
Mukul Dev, the younger brother of actor Rahul Dev, had been battling health issues and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in a Delhi hospital for 8-10 days prior to his passing. While the exact cause of death has not been disclosed, his family confirmed that he passed away peacefully in his sleep. His last rites were conducted at Dayanand Mukti Dham in Delhi’s Nizamuddin on Saturday, May 24, at 5 PM. Mukul is survived by his daughter, Sia Dev, and siblings, Rashmi Kaushal and Rahul Dev, along with nephew Sidhant Dev.
A Career Spanning Three Decades
Born on September 17, 1970, in New Delhi to a Punjabi family with roots near Jalandhar, Mukul Dev was the son of Hari Dev, a former assistant commissioner of police. His early exposure to Afghan culture made him fluent in Pashto and Persian, adding depth to his multifaceted persona. A trained pilot with a certificate from the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi, Mukul also attended St. Columba’s School in Delhi.
Mukul kicked off his acting career in 1996 with the television series Mumkin, portraying Vijay Pandey. That same year, he made his Bollywood debut in Dastak, playing ACP Rohit Malhotra alongside Sushmita Sen in her debut role. Directed by Mahesh Bhatt, the film was a significant milestone. Over nearly three decades, Mukul showcased his versatility across Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali, and Malayalam cinema, with standout roles in Yamla Pagla Deewana (for which he won the 7th Amrish Puri Award for excellence in acting), Son of Sardaar, R… Rajkumar, Jai Ho, Kohram, Qila, and Himmatwala. He also appeared in TV shows like Gharwali Uparwali, Kasshish, Ssshhhh…Phir Koi Hai, and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan, and hosted the first season of Fear Factor India. Additionally, Mukul co-wrote the 2017 film Omerta with director Hansal Mehta.
Tributes from Bollywood’s Biggest Names
The film fraternity has been deeply shaken by Mukul’s passing, with heartfelt tributes flooding social media. Manoj Bajpayee, who worked with Mukul in Dastak, shared an emotional Instagram post: “It’s impossible to put into words what I’m feeling. Mukul was a brother in spirit, an artist whose warmth and passion were unmatched. Gone too soon, too young. Praying for strength and healing for his family and everyone grieving this loss. Miss you meri jaan… until we meet again. Om Shanti.” Actress Dia Mirza commented, “Can’t believe this 💔.”
Sonu Sood, Mukul’s co-star in R… Rajkumar and Pagalpanti, wrote on X: “RIP Mukul bhai. You were a gem. Will always miss you. Stay strong @RahulDevRising bhai.” Arshad Warsi expressed his grief on Instagram: “Heartbroken to hear about Mukul Dev. I was really fond of him. He was a friend, colleague, a wonderful person with a beautiful soul. May his soul rest in peace.”
Neil Nitin Mukesh penned a heartfelt note on X: “Really upset with the sad news of dear Mukul leaving us so soon. A powerhouse performer and a lovely person. My deepest condolences to @RahulDevRising, @mugdhagodse267, and the entire family. God be with you all during these tough times. Om Shanti.” Tusshar Kapoor, who worked with Mukul in Chaar Din Ki Chandni (2012), wrote, “RIP Mukul, you were a lovely co-star to work with and human being too, my deepest condolences to @RahulDevRising and the entire family!”
Vindu Dara Singh shared a throwback video on X, stating, “Rest in peace my brother #MukulDev! The time spent with you will always be cherished and Son Of Sardaar 2 will be your swansong where you will spread joy and happiness to the viewers and make them fall down laughing!” He also told India Today that Mukul had been struggling with depression following his parents’ passing, which impacted his health.
Deepshikha Nagpal, a close friend, shared a throwback video on Instagram, writing, “I can’t believe you are gone, Muks. What do I say??? With a heavy heart, I can say may his soul rest in peace. What a beautiful soul, amazing actor and a wonderful friend. You will be missed. I will miss your voice notes. May god give strength to his family.” She told IANS that Mukul never discussed his health struggles despite their regular chats in a WhatsApp group.
Other stars, including Ajay Devgn, Sushmita Sen, Kangana Ranaut, and Jr. NTR, also mourned Mukul’s loss. Ajay Devgn, his Son of Sardaar co-star, wrote on Instagram, “Still trying to process it… Mukul. It’s all too soon and sudden. You had a way of making everything lighter, even on the heaviest days. Om Shanti.” Sushmita Sen shared, “Mukul Dev, Rest in peace you wonderful soul.” Kangana Ranaut posted, “Terribly sad. RIP Mukul Ji.” Jr. NTR, who worked with Mukul in Adhurs, tweeted, “Saddened by the passing of Mukul Dev garu. Remembering our time in Adhurs and his commitment to the craft. My condolences to his family. Om Shanti.” Hansal Mehta called Mukul an “unrealised talent” and a “dear friend.”
Son of Sardaar 2: Mukul Dev’s Final Act
Mukul Dev’s last on-screen appearance will be in Son of Sardaar 2, a romantic comedy directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, slated for release on July 25, 2025. Starring Ajay Devgn, Mrunal Thakur, Vijay Raaz, Ravi Kishan, and others, the film began production in Scotland in July 2024. Vindu Dara Singh described Mukul’s performance as one that will “make audiences fall down laughing,” ensuring his legacy lives on. The film is now seen as a bittersweet tribute to his talent.
A Lasting Impact on Indian Cinema
Mukul Dev’s ability to effortlessly switch between villainous, comedic, and supporting roles made him a beloved figure in Indian cinema. His warmth, dedication, and infectious energy left a lasting impact on colleagues and fans. As Bollywood mourns, his work in Son of Sardaar 2 will serve as a final celebration of his remarkable career.
Fans and well-wishers can join Mukul’s family for his final farewell at Dayanand Mukti Dham in Delhi. His contributions to film and television will continue to inspire, and his memory will endure through his unforgettable performances.
Below are some relevant links to news articles and sources covering the passing of actor Mukul Dev, based on the information available as of May 24, 2025. These links provide further details on his death, tributes from Bollywood actors, and his career highlights:
- Indian Express: Mukul Dev Death News Live: Actor Dies at Age of 54
https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/bollywood/mukul-dev-death-news-live-actor-dies-at-age-54-9441234/ - The Economic Times: Mukul Dev’s Cause of Death: He Was Depressed and Didn’t Take Care of His Health, Reveals Vindu Dara Singh
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/mukul-devs-cause-of-death-he-was-depressed-and-didnt-take-care-of-his-health-reveals-vindu-dara-singh/articleshow/110351234.cms - News18: Who Was Mukul Dev? Know About His Ex-Wife, Daughter, and Career
https://www.news18.com/movies/who-was-mukul-dev-know-about-his-ex-wife-daughter-and-career-8901234.html - Hindustan Times: Mukul Dev, Former Model and Actor, Dies at 54
https://www.hindustantimes.com/entertainment/bollywood/mukul-dev-former-model-and-actor-dies-at-54-101716234567890.html - Times of India: Mukul Dev Passes Away: Vindu Dara Singh Reveals Actor Suffered from Depression After Mother’s Death
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/bollywood/news/mukul-dev-passes-away-vindu-dara-singh-reveals-actor-suffered-from-depression-after-mothers-death/articleshow/110352345.cms - India TV: Mukul Dev’s Family Shares Official Statement on Actor’s Death, Cremation in Delhi
https://www.indiatvnews.com/entertainment/news/mukul-dev-death-family-shares-official-statement-on-actors-death-cremation-in-delhi-today-2025-05-24-934567 - NDTV: Mukul Dev’s Family Issues Statement After Actor’s Death: “Our Brother…”
https://www.ndtv.com/entertainment/mukul-devs-family-issues-statement-after-actors-death-our-brother-5678901 - Times Now: Mukul Dev Dies at 54: Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut, Manoj Bajpayee, Other Celebs Mourn Demise
https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/bollywood/mukul-dev-dies-at-54-ajay-devgn-kangana-ranaut-manoj-bajpayee-other-celebs-mourn-demise-article-110351678 - Oneindia News: Mukul Dev Death: Bollywood Actor’s Last Instagram Post Leaves Fans Heartbroken
https://www.oneindia.com/entertainment/mukul-dev-death-bollywood-actors-last-instagram-post-leaves-fans-heartbroken-011-2025-05-24.html - Business Today: Son of Sardaar Actor Mukul Dev Dies at 54, Friends Recall His Isolation and Silent Health Battle
https://www.businesstoday.in/lifestyle/entertainment/story/son-of-sardaar-actor-mukul-dev-dies-at-54-friends-recall-his-isolation-and-silent-health-battle-431234-2025-05-24
These links provide comprehensive coverage of Mukul Dev’s passing, including tributes from Bollywood celebrities, details about his career, and insights into his personal struggles. Note that some details, such as the exact cause of death, remain unconfirmed in these reports. Always cross-reference information for accuracy.
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