Did 2025 Bring Unprecedented Losses to Bollywood?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 2025 saw the loss of several iconic Bollywood figures.
- The industry experienced significant mourning, particularly in November.
- Each departure left a lasting impact on cinema and culture.
- Legends like Manoj Kumar and Dharmendra shaped the industry.
- Their legacies will be remembered and celebrated.
Mumbai, Dec 22 (NationPress) Throughout 2025, Bollywood faced the heartbreaking departure of several iconic figures, including Dharmendra, Asrani, Manoj Kumar, and Pankaj Dheer. These talented individuals left an indelible mark on both cinema and popular culture.
With each loss, memories, achievements, and voids were left behind. As the curtain falls on 2025, the industry takes a moment to honor those who have taken their last bow.
November 2025 proved to be a challenging month.
The month commenced with worry as veteran actor Dharmendra was hospitalized due to breathing difficulties. Weeks later, this worry turned into sorrow for the Deol family.
The original He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra, who defined an era with his powerful screen presence, passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. His passing signified the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in Indian cinema.
Just weeks prior to Dharmendra's death, another shocking loss occurred.
Veteran actress and singer Sulakshana Pandit, known for her collaborations with stars like Vinod Khanna, Shashi Kapoor, and Rajesh Khanna, passed away on November 7. The loss of these two stars transformed November into a time of collective mourning.
October 2025 also saw its share of sorrow.
The industry bid farewell to Hindi television's Karna, Pankaj Dheer, and Satish Kaushik, renowned for his portrayal of the beloved Indravardhan Sarabhai in the cult sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. Their deaths on October 15 and October 25 deepened the industry's sense of loss.
September 2025 added to the heartbreak.
The unexpected passing of singer Zubeen Garg in Singapore was a shock to the industry and his fans nationwide. Celebrated for his powerful voice and contributions to Hindi, Bengali, and Assamese music, Zubeen died on September 19 at the age of 52, leaving a silence that resonated far beyond the music realm.
June 2025 stunned everyone.
The morning of June 27 began with disbelief as news of Shefali Jariwala's passing circulated. Known as Bollywood’s original 'Kaanta Laga' girl, Shefali carved a unique space for herself through her appearances on Bigg Boss 13 and the show Shaitani Rasmein. She passed away at the age of 42.
May 2025 was filled with pain.
Actor Rahul Dev mourned the loss of his brother Mukul Dev, who passed away at 54 on May 23, 2025. His film Son Of Sardaar, released months after his passing, became the last opportunity for fans to see him on screen.
The tone of sadness for 2025 was established in April with the passing of legendary actor Manoj Kumar.
He left us at the age of 87 due to heart complications. A star whose career spanned over four decades, Manoj Kumar became synonymous with patriotism on screen. His death represents the loss of a filmmaker and actor whose legacy will forever resonate in Hindi cinema.