Veteran actor Satish Shah passes away at 74

Veteran Indian actor Satish Shah, celebrated for his comic brilliance and memorable performances across film and television, passed away on Saturday at the age of 74, according to filmmaker and Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) official.

Ashoke Pandit confirmed the news on Instagram, saying the actor succumbed to kidney failure after suddenly falling ill at his Mumbai residence. He was rushed to Hinduja Hospital, where he breathed his last.

Born in 1951 in the erstwhile Bombay State, Shah began his acting career in the 1970s and quickly became one of India's most beloved character actors. His breakthrough came with the 1984 sitcom 'Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi', where he played 55 different roles, a feat that established him as a versatile performer.

Shah became a household name through his iconic portrayal of Indravadan Sarabhai, the witty patriarch in the cult series 'Sarabhai vs Sarabhai' (2004-2006), a role that remains one of the most adored in Indian television history.

His film career was equally prolific, spanning over four decades. He featured in acclaimed and popular titles including 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro', 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge', 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!', 'Main Hoon Na', 'Fanaa' and 'Om Shanti Om'.

His last big-screen appearance was in Sajid Khan's 2014 comedy 'Humshakals'. In addition to his acting achievements, Shah co-judged 'Comedy Circus' in 2008 and was appointed to the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) society in 2015.

Tributes have poured in from across India's entertainment industry, honouring his enduring legacy of laughter and humanity. Satish Shah is survived by his wife, Madhu Shah, a fashion designer.