Mushtaq Khan, one of the most familiar and veteran character actors in the Bollywood film and television industry, is no more. He breathed his last while undergoing treatment in Mumbai on Thursday, 24 September. He was 56 years old at the time of his passing. The popular comedic actor had been battling lung cancer for a long time. The news of his sudden demise has cast a deep shadow of grief over the Hindi film and entertainment industry.
According to family and hospital sources, Mushtaq Khan had been suffering from lung cancer for a long time. At one point, he had recovered following proper medical treatment. However, just eight days before his death, the cancer suddenly relapsed. As his physical condition rapidly deteriorated, he was admitted to Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai, where he breathed his last while under treatment.
Mushtaq Khan’s business partner, Shivam, told the news outlet Hindustan Times that the renowned actor had reached the advanced stage of cancer. He said, “He passed away at around 7 pm on Thursday. He had previously recovered after receiving treatment. However, eight days ago, the cancer relapsed and he had to be hospitalised. The cancer was at its final stage.”
Mushtaq Khan demonstrated his acting prowess in the Hindi entertainment industry for several decades. Though not usually in lead roles, he won the hearts of audiences in various supporting characters with his unique performances and brilliant comic timing.
In the 2007 blockbuster film Welcome, his portrayal of the character ‘Balu’ alongside Akshay Kumar, Anil Kapoor, and Katrina Kaif gained immense popularity. His role as the humorous hockey player in the film and his iconic dialogue, “Meri ek taang nakli hai” (I have a fake leg), remain fondly remembered by audiences to this day. Additionally, his presence in several commercially successful films, such as Hera Pheri (2000), Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Jodi No. 1, and Rowdy Rathore, added a distinct dimension to those movies.
Despite advancing age, this talented artist never withdrew from acting. His presence was seen in recent box-office successes such as Gadar 2, Badhaai Do, and Stree 2. Alongside the silver screen, he was equally successful on television. By appearing in several popular TV series like Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi, Adaalat, and Chamatkar, he became a household face to television audiences.
With the premature passing of Mushtaq Khan, a humorous chapter in Bollywood has come to an end. The memories of how he brought smiles to viewers’ faces appearing on screen as a character actor will remain forever etched in the hearts of his fans and well-wishers.