Mukul Dev, Versatile Bollywood Actor, Dies at 54: Industry Mourns a Talented Star

New Delhi, India, May 24, 2025 – The Indian film industry is reeling from the sudden loss of actor Mukul Dev, who passed away on Friday, May 23, 2025, at the age of 54 due to health complications. Known for his dynamic performances in films like Son of Sardaar, R… Rajkumar, and Yamla Pagla Deewana, Dev’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from Bollywood stars and fans alike, celebrating his versatility and warmth. His brother, actor Rahul Dev, confirmed the news, noting that Mukul passed away peacefully in New Delhi, leaving behind a legacy spanning over two decades in cinema and television.

Early Life and Background

Born on September 17, 1970, in New Delhi to a Punjabi family with roots near Jalandhar, Mukul Dev was the younger brother of actor Rahul Dev. Their father, Hari Dev, a former assistant commissioner of Delhi Police, was known for his bravery and fluency in Pashto and Persian, inspiring Mukul’s early life. A graduate of St. Columba’s School in Delhi, Mukul shared an alma mater with Shah Rukh Khan, whose stories of valor influenced him from afar, as he shared with film critic Mayank Shekhar. Mukul trained as a commercial pilot at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Aviation in Raebareli but chose acting over aviation, driven by a passion for performance.

Career Journey

Mukul began his career in 1996 with the television serial Mumkin, playing Vijay Pandey, and appeared in Doordarshan’s Ek Se Badh Kar Ek, a Bollywood countdown comedy show. He also hosted the first season of Fear Factor India. His film debut came the same year with Dastak, a thriller directed by Mahesh Bhatt, where he played ACP Rohit Malhotra opposite Sushmita Sen, marking her acting debut as well. The role earned critical praise for his intense portrayal of a negative character.

Over the years, Mukul showcased his versatility across Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Bengali, and Malayalam cinema. Notable films include Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011), for which he won the 7th Amrish Puri Award for excellence in acting, Son of Sardaar (2012), R… Rajkumar (2013), and Jai Ho (2014). He also appeared in Qila, Kohram, Wajood, and Bhaag Johny, among others. His television credits include Kahin Diyaa Jale Kahin Jiyaa (2001), Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii (2003), and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan. In 2020, he made his OTT debut with State of Siege: 26/11. His final role in Son of Sardaar 2, set for release later this year, is described by co-star Vindu Dara Singh as his “swansong,” promising to spread joy and laughter.

In a 2021 Hindustan Times interview, Mukul reflected on his 25-year career, saying, “Even if I want to, I cannot complain. The kind of launch I got with Dastak and then the films I did after that. I did TV, Hindi films, and then regional films.” His last film, Anth The End (2022), a mystery thriller with Divya Dutta, showcased his enduring commitment to diverse roles.

Personal Life and Legacy

Mukul was a devoted father to his daughter, Sia Dev, born in 2002. He cherished the memory of holding her for the first time, describing it as a defining moment in a 2012 Eastern Eye interview. Following the death of his parents, Mukul became reclusive, rarely leaving home or meeting friends, which reportedly impacted his health. Vindu Dara Singh noted that Mukul’s recent struggles with alcohol and gutkha led to weight gain and hospitalization in the ICU for 8-10 days before his passing. He is survived by Sia, his siblings Rahul Dev and Rashmi Kaushal, and nephew Sidhant Dev.

Tributes from Bollywood and Fans

The industry and fans have mourned Mukul’s loss with heartfelt tributes. Vindu Dara Singh, his Son of Sardaar co-star, shared a video on X, writing, “Rest in peace my brother #MukulDev! The time spent with you will always be cherished and #SonOfSardaar2 will be your swansong where you will spread joy and happiness to the viewers and make them fall down laughing!”

Manoj Bajpayee posted on Instagram, “It’s impossible to put into words what I’m feeling. Mukul was a brother in spirit, an artist whose warmth and passion were unmatched. Gone too soon, too young. Miss you meri jaan. Om Shanti.” Sonu Sood tweeted, “RIP Mukul bhai. You were a gem. Will always miss you. Stay strong @RahulDevRising bhai.” Deepshikha Nagpal, a close friend who worked with Mukul in Teri Bhabhi Hai Pagle and Maya 3, shared an Instagram Story, writing, “Can’t believe this. RIP,” and told IANS, “He was a fantastic human being… Life is so unpredictable.”

Neil Nitin Mukesh wrote on X, “Really upset with the sad news of dear Mukul leaving us so soon. A powerhouse performer and a lovely person. My deepest condolences to @RahulDevRising.” Fans on X echoed the sentiment, with @itsnkupdates noting, “Bollywood and Punjabi cinema mourns the loss of a talented actor, Mukul Dev. He will be remembered for his notable work in films, TV serials, and music albums.”

Cause of Death

While the exact cause of Mukul’s death remains undisclosed, close associates confirmed he had been unwell and admitted to the ICU in a Delhi hospital. His brother Rahul announced the cremation details, set for May 24 at 5 PM at Dayanand Mukti Dham in Nizamuddin West, Delhi.

Career Highlights Table

Mukul Dev’s career, marked by his ability to seamlessly transition between lead and supporting roles across languages and mediums, leaves a lasting impact. His equanimity and dedication, as noted by Mayank Shekhar, inspired peers and fans alike. As the industry bids farewell, his work in Son of Sardaar 2 will serve as a final tribute to a beloved actor gone too soon.