2025 marked a sombre year for Indian entertainment, with the passing of artists who defined distinct eras—patriotic cinema, blockbuster stardom, pop-culture phenomena, mythological television, and character comedy. Here’s a tribute to five names whose work remains etched in popular memory.
Manoj Kumar: “Bharat Kumar” and the voice of patriotic cinema
Veteran actor-director Manoj Kumar died on April 4, 2025, aged 87.
His legacy is inseparable from cinema that framed nationalism as emotion and duty. Upkar (1967) remains his signature—both as actor and director—while Shaheed (1965), Purab Aur Pachhim (1970) and Kranti (1981) helped set the template for large-scale, message-forward popular cinema. He was honoured with the Padma Shri (1992) and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2015).
Dharmendra: The enduring superstar who defined the mass hero
Dharmendra died on November 24, 2025, aged 89, ending an era of charismatic big-screen stardom.
His most iconic screen memory is Veeru in Sholay (1975)—a performance built on warmth, humour, and swagger that helped turn the film into a cultural landmark. Beyond that, his range extended from romance to comedy and action, with standout turns across multiple decades.
Shefali Jariwala: The “Kaanta Laga” phenomenon of early-2000s pop culture
Actor and model Shefali Jariwala died on June 27, 2025, aged 42. Early reports cited a suspected cardiac arrest, with official details reported as pending investigation/post-mortem updates.
Her defining imprint remains “Kaanta Laga” (2002)—a music video that became an era-defining pop moment. Later appearances in reality TV and web projects kept her connected with newer audiences, but “Kaanta Laga” remains the cultural shorthand for her legacy.
Pankaj Dheer: Television’s unforgettable Karna
Pankaj Dheer died on October 15, 2025, aged 68, after a cancer battle, as reported by NDTV.
He is most remembered as Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat—a performance that gave the character tragedy, dignity, and moral complexity. He also appeared in films including Sadak (1991), Sanam Bewafa (1991) and Soldier (1998), alongside other TV and film work.
Asrani: The character-actor who turned comedy into culture
Veteran actor Asrani died on October 20, 2025, aged 84.
He had the rare ability to turn supporting roles into lasting memories—especially the jailer in Sholay (1975). Across films like Chhoti Si Baat, Namak Haraam, and Pati Patni Aur Woh, he became synonymous with character-driven humour rooted in timing and observation.
A legacy that endures
These five departures represent the closing of multiple chapters in Indian screen culture—from patriotic storytelling and the superstar era to music-video pop stardom, appointment-viewing television, and the golden run of Hindi film comedy. Their work remains available, revisited, and re-loved—proof that cinema and television outlive the moment they were made for.
By – Sonali