A sad and gripping news has gripped Bollywood as veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, known for his roles in films such as Welcome, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Hera Pheri and Aashiqui, has died at the age of 56. The actor breathed his last on September 24 in Mumbai.
Comedian Sunil Pal, a close friend of the actor, confirmed his death and said Khan had been battling cancer. An official statement from the family on the exact cause of death is awaited.
As per a report in HT City, “He passed away around 7 pm on Thursday. He had been diagnosed with lung cancer earlier and had got well. However, it relapsed eight days back, and he had to be admitted to the hospital. It was last-stage cancer.”
Mushtaq Khan was reportedly undergoing treatment at Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai after his health deteriorated.
Fans and celebrities took to social media to express their grief and remember the veteran actor’s memorable performances.
One comment read, “Legendary actor Mushtaq Khan saab passes away… May his soul rest in peace!”
KRK also remembered Mushtaq Khan in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
A fan shared an old clip of the actor and wrote, “Brilliant acting and comic timing.”
Another fan remembered his iconic role in Welcome and wrote, “He has played so many memorable characters, but I will always remember him as Ballu from #Welcome. The way he delivered, ‘Meri ek taang nakli hai, main hockey ka bahut bada khiladi tha…’ made it absolutely iconic and a dialogue that will be remembered for ages. May God give strength to his family during this difficult time.”
Sunil Pal also paid tribute to the actor on social media following his demise.
Mushtaq Khan had a career spanning several decades and worked across Hindi films and television. He made his film debut with Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai in 1980 and subsequently appeared in several films during the 1980s and 1990s, including Kaalia, Aashiqui, Sadak, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke and Krantiveer.
He became a familiar face among Hindi film audiences through his supporting and comic roles. One of his most recognisable performances came in Anees Bazmee’s Welcome (2007), where he played Balu, a character who became part of the film’s comic sequences. He also appeared in Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Hera Pheri, Jodi No. 1, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, Welcome Back and Rowdy Rathore.
The actor continued to remain active in the industry in recent years, appearing in films including Gadar 2, Stree 2 and Baby John. He also worked in television, including appearances in Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi and Adaalat.