Veteran Actor Satish Shah, Best Known for ‘Sarabhai vs Sarabhai’, Dies at 74 in Mumbai
Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood actor Satish Shah, widely celebrated for his iconic performances in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, and Main Hoon Na, passed away on Saturday (October 25, 2025) at his residence in Bandra East, Mumbai. He was 74.
Ramesh Kadatala, his personal assistant for over three decades, confirmed the news and told PTI, “It seems he passed away from a heart attack, however we are awaiting the final reports from the doctor about the reason behind his death.”
Filmmaker and close friend Ashoke Pandit also expressed his grief, saying, “It is a huge loss for our industry. He was a very jovial person.”
A Versatile Career Spanning Decades
Born on June 25, 1951, Satish Shah was a graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and became a beloved name in Indian cinema and television for his impeccable comic timing and memorable roles.
He rose to fame with Kundan Shah’s cult classic “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro” (1983), where he portrayed the corrupt Municipal Commissioner D’Mello. The satirical comedy on corruption featured an ensemble cast including Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, and Pankaj Kapur, and remains one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated films.
Shah’s filmography includes memorable performances in “Maalamaal”, “Hero Hiralal”, “Main Hoon Na”, “Kal Ho Naa Ho”, and “Om Shanti Om”. His effortless ability to switch between humor and depth made him one of Bollywood’s most respected character actors.
Television Legacy: From ‘Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi’ to ‘Sarabhai vs Sarabhai’
On television, Satish Shah became a household name through classic shows like “Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi”, “Filmi Chakkar”, and especially “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai”, where he played the witty and lovable Indravadan Sarabhai. His portrayal of the mischievous father alongside Ratna Pathak Shah, Rupali Ganguli, Sumeet Raghavan, and Rajesh Kumar continues to be celebrated for its timeless humor.
A Life Remembered
Satish Shah’s passing leaves behind a rich legacy of laughter, versatility, and warmth that touched millions of fans across generations. He is survived by his wife, designer Madhu Shah.
The Indian film fraternity and fans across the country mourn the loss of a true entertainer whose contribution to cinema and television will forever be cherished.
