Veteran Indian actor Pradeep Rawat dies at 74 after cancer battle

'Lagaan' and 'Ghajini' actor was remembered by colleagues and fans for his memorable performances and humble nature

Veteran Indian actor Pradeep Rawat died on Tuesday evening in Mumbai after a prolonged battle with blood cancer. He was 74. According to Gulf News, Rawat's manager confirmed the news to Indian media.

He said the veteran actor had been admitted to Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital for the past month before being shifted to Bhiwandi as his condition deteriorated.

 

 

 

 

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News of Rawat's death prompted an outpouring of tributes from family, friends and colleagues across the Indian film industry, many remembering him for both his memorable performances and his warm, humble personality.

His Lagaan co-star Yashpal Sharma was among the first to pay tribute, sharing an emotional post on Instagram.

"Pradeep Rawat, our Ghajini Deva of Lagaan. RIP," Sharma wrote.

Om Shanti Om Shanti
Our friend and a colleague Pradeep Rawat who played Ashwathama in Mahabharat passed away. pic.twitter.com/WnBb0BQLxa

— Gajendra Chauhan (@Gajjusay) August 4, 2026

Actor Gajendra Chauhan also paid tribute on X, remembering Rawat for his portrayal of Ashwathama in Mahabharat.