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Mumbai: Celebrated veteran actor Satish Shah, best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Indravadan Sarabhai in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and his impeccable comic timing in classic films, passed away at the age of 74 in Mumbai. The actor had reportedly been battling kidney-related ailments and had recently undergone a transplant. A beloved figure in Indian entertainment Satish Shah was a household name, admired for his effortless humour and versatility across television, theatre, and cinema. From playing the sarcastic patriarch in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai to the unforgettable D’Mello’s corpse in Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983), Shah redefined the art of situational comedy. Over a career spanning four decades, he starred in some of Bollywood’s most iconic films, including Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), Main Hoon Na (2004), Fanaa (2006), and Om Shanti Om (2007). His ability to transition seamlessly from slapstick humour to heartfelt performances made him one of Indian cinema’s most respected character actors. A private man with a rich legacy Despite his fame, Shah was known for maintaining a low profile. He was married to designer Madhu Shah, and the couple shared a close, private life away from the limelight. Born into a Kutchi Gujarati family in Mumbai, Shah was an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), where he trained to become one of the most recognisable faces in Indian entertainment. Industry colleagues remember him as witty, warm, and deeply professional — a man whose humour extended beyond the screen to everyone who worked with him. Financial success and lasting impact According to industry reports, Shah commanded a fee between ₹2 crore and ₹5 crore per film during the peak of his career. His earnings were further bolstered by regular appearances in television shows, advertisements, and stage productions. Reports estimate that Satish Shah’s net worth ranged between ₹40 crore and ₹45 crore, with much of his wealth invested in real estate and other long-term assets. His career reflected both artistic excellence and financial prudence, marking him as a rare blend of talent and business acumen. Tributes pour in from the industry News of Shah’s passing has left fans and colleagues heartbroken. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit posted on social media, “Sad and shocked to inform you that our dear friend and great actor Satish Shah has passed away due to kidney failure. A great loss to our industry. Om Shanti.” Director Madhur Bhandarkar also expressed grief, writing, “I’m deeply shocked to hear about the demise of the talented actor Satish Shah sir. He entertained us with his diverse roles and outstanding performances. My deepest condolences to his family and admirers.” Remembering an era of laughter Satish Shah’s contribution to Indian entertainment extends beyond his acting — he represented a golden era of television and comedy where humour was clean, intelligent, and relatable. His performances continue to inspire new generations of actors and comedians. As tributes continue to pour in from fans, colleagues, and the fraternity, Satish Shah’s legacy as one of India’s finest comedic talents remains secure — a man who brought joy to millions and laughter to every home.
