Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, known for Welcome, Gadar and Aashiqui, has died in Mumbai after battling cancer. His son Mohsin confirmed the news.
Veteran Hindi film, television and theatre actor Mushtaq Khan, remembered for his distinctive comic timing and supporting performances in films such as Welcome, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, died in Mumbai on Thursday, September 24.
His son Mohsin confirmed that the actor died at Nanavati Hospital at approximately 7 p.m. after being diagnosed with cancer.
“He had complained of stomach pain, so we took him to the hospital where doctors discovered that he has cancer. His health worsened in the last few days,” Mohsin told PTI.
Khan had been admitted to the hospital for around two weeks. According to his son, the actor had remained professionally active and was working on the debut film of Salman Khan’s bodyguard Shera’s son shortly before his hospitalisation.
Published reports provide conflicting information about Khan’s age, listing it as 56, 75 or 76. In the absence of consistent official documentation, his exact age has not been stated here as confirmed.
A Familiar Face Across Five Decades
Mushtaq Khan built a career spanning nearly five decades and reportedly appeared in more than 500 films.
He became one of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable character actors through performances in Aashiqui, Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, Sadak, Saathi, Junoon, Sir, Krantiveer, Raja, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Jodi No. 1, Hera Pheri and the Gadar franchise.
His performance in the 2007 comedy Welcome became especially popular. Khan played Ballu, a member of Uday Shetty’s gang, and delivered the widely remembered monologue about being a hockey player with an artificial leg.
In Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, he portrayed Gul Khan and returned to the role in Gadar 2 more than two decades later.
Khan also worked extensively in television and theatre. His television appearances included programmes such as Wagle Ki Duniya, Chamatkar and Tedhe Medhe Sapne.
Film Industry Pays Tribute
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit remembered Khan as a close friend, accomplished stage performer and compassionate person.
Pandit said they had worked together in theatre and television during their early years and described Khan as an actor who had mastered his craft despite facing financial and professional struggles.
Actor-comedian Sunil Pal also paid tribute on social media, sharing Khan’s photograph and offering condolences.
Khan’s funeral is scheduled to take place on Friday at the Yari Road Kabristan in Mumbai.
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