As 2025 nears its end, the Indian film and entertainment industry is looking back at the year with grief. The industry, with mixed memories of sadness and gratitude, bid farewell to the people who were
not only the pillars of the industry but also the torchbearers, trailblazers, and epoch-makers who had the widest reach both in the front and in the back of the scenes.
Their everlasting influence through films, theatre, and radio has been recognised by fans, companions, and cultural commentators.
Dharmendra
The “He-Man” of the film industry passed away on November 24, aged 89. For six decades, Dharmendra had a brilliant career during which he produced hits such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, and Phool Aur Patthar.
Satish Shah
Comedic legend Satish Shah, known for his perfect timing in Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai, Hum Saath Saath Hain, and Main Hoon Na, died on October 25, aged 74. His versatility and innate sense of humour made him an unforgettable character in films and TV programs.
Zubeen Garg
The passing of Assamese singer-composer Zubeen Garg has left the music industry with an unbearable void. Zubeen, who led the local music scenes and turned into a cultural hero in Assam, died on September 19 while swimming in Singapore, aged 52.
Sulakshana Pandit
Prominent actress and playback singer Sulakshana Pandit died on November 6 at the age of 71. She was known for films like Khandaan, Uljhan, Dharam Kanta, and Apnapan. She collaborated alongside Shashi Kapoor, Vinod Khanna, and Rajesh Khanna as a famous face of the 1970s and 1980s.
Govardhan Asrani
Legendary actor Govardhan Asrani, better known by his stage name Asrani, died on October 20 at the age of 84. He captivated viewers with films like Sholay, Khatta Meetha, Awara Paagal Deewana, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa over his more than 50-year career. Asrani was famous for his emotive performances and loved by all generations.
Shefali Jariwala
Shefali Jariwala’s unexpected death stunned the entire country. The actress passed away on June 27 at the age of 42. She appeared in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi and became a pop culture celebrity with the famous song ‘Kaanta Laga’. The 2000s pop culture figure also appeared on television several times.
Manoj Kumar
Manoj Kumar, another legendary actor in Indian film, passed away in April at the age of 87. Manoj, popularly known as Bharat Kumar, began his career in 1957 and went on to deliver films like Kranti, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, and Purab Aur Pachhim.
Pankaj Dheer
Pankaj Dheer, best known for his role as Karna in the epic Mahabharat, died on October 15. His portrayal is still among the most cherished in the annals of Indian television.
Zarine Khan
Sanjay Khan’s wife, Zarine Khan (born Zarin Katrak), died on November 7 at the age of 81. Before turning to interior design and creating opulent settings for several celebrities, she had a brief but memorable career in Bollywood.
Piyush Pandey
Piyush Pandey, a legendary figure in advertising, died on October 24 at the age of 70. He was the creative force behind some of the most popular advertising campaigns in India. His most iconic advertising efforts helped to define India’s advertising landscape.
