Satish Shah, Star of ‘Sarabhai vs Sarabhai’ and Bollywood Films, Dies at 74

Renowned Bollywood actor Satish Shah, best known for his iconic roles in films like “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro” and “Main Hoon Na” and the popular sitcom “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai,” passed away on Saturday at his residence in Bandra East, Mumbai. He was 74 years old.

According to Ramesh Kadatala, Shah’s personal assistant for over 30 years, the actor succumbed to kidney failure at Hinduja Hospital. “It seems he passed away from a heart attack, however, we are awaiting the final reports from the doctor about the reason behind his death,” Kadatala added.

Shah’s friend and industry colleague, Ashoke Pandit, confirmed his demise, stating, “It is a huge loss for our industry. He was a very jovial person.” Johnny Lever, another industry stalwart, also paid tribute to Shah, saying, “Feeling extremely sad to share that we’ve lost a great artist & my dearest friend of over 40 years.”

Career Highlights

Satish Shah was a graduate of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and began his acting career with minor roles in films like “Arvind Desai Ki Ajeeb Dastaan” (1978) and “Gaman” (1979). He gained widespread recognition for his role in the 1983 cult classic “Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro,” where he played the corrupt Municipal Commissioner D’Mello alongside Naseeruddin Shah, Om Puri, and Pankaj Kapur.

Some notable highlights of Shah’s career include ¹ ²:

• Television Shows:
• Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi (1984): Played 55 different characters across 55 episodes
• Filmy Chakkar (1995): Played the character Prakash
• Sarabhai vs Sarabhai (2004): Starred as Indravadan Sarabhai, the sarcastic yet endearing patriarch
• Notable Films:
• Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983)
• Main Hoon Na (2004)
• Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003)
• Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995)
• Om Shanti Om (2007)

Shah’s performances earned him widespread acclaim, and he became a household name. His on-screen pairing with Ratna Pathak Shah in “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai” was particularly well-received.

Tributes and Condolences

The news of Shah’s passing sent shockwaves through the film industry, with many prominent personalities paying tribute to him on social media. Farah Khan, director of “Main Hoon Na,” wrote, “Rest in peace dearest Satish. you were a joy to know n work with. will miss u sending me memes n jokes everyday.” Karan Johar posted a photo of Shah on his Instagram Stories, saying, “Satish Shah, Om Shanti.”

Shah is survived by his wife, designer Madhu Shah. His legacy continues to inspire and entertain fans, and his contributions to Indian cinema and television will be deeply missed

Early Life and Career of Satish Shah

Satish Shah was born on June 25, 1951, in Mumbai, India, to a Kutchi Gujarati family from Mandvi. He has two siblings, Madhuri and Natwar. Shah completed his schooling and graduation at St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai and later joined the Film and Television Institute of India.

Career Highlights

Shah’s acting career spans over four decades, with notable roles in films and television shows. Some of his notable works include ¹ ²:

• Films:
• Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983) – Municipal Commissioner D’Mello
• Main Hoon Na (2004) – Prof. Madhav Rasai
• Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003) – Karshan Bhai Patel
• Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995) – Ajit Singh
• Television Shows:
• Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi (1984) – Played 55 different characters
• Sarabhai vs Sarabhai (2004) – Indravadan Sarabhai
• Filmy Chakkar (1993) – Prakash Jaiswal

Achievements and Awards

Shah’s performances earned him numerous awards and nominations, including ¹:

• Indian Television Academy Awards:
• Best Actor in a Comic Role for “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai” (2005)
• Best Actor – Web Series for “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai” (2017)
• Indian Telly Awards:
• Best Comic Role Actor for “Sarabhai vs Sarabhai” (2006)

Personal Life

Shah married designer Madhu Shah in 1972. He enjoys smoking and drinking. His favorite director is Shyam Ramsay, and his favorite actor is Naseeruddin Shah. Shah’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹5.5 crore ³.

Legacy

Satish Shah’s contribution to Indian cinema and television is undeniable. With a career spanning over 40 years, he has left an indelible mark on the industry. His versatility and range as an actor have made him a beloved figure among audiences