Mumbai: Actor Mukul Dev, remembered for his impactful roles in films like Son of Sardaar and Yamla Pagla Deewana, passed away on May 23 at the age of 54. Known for his quiet demeanor and heartfelt performances, Mukul had been hospitalized and was under intensive care due to a recent illness. He is survived by his brother, actor Rahul Dev. The exact cause of death has not been made public.
Actor Vindu Dara Singh, who shared screen space with Mukul in Son of Sardaar, confirmed the news. “He had become reclusive after his parents’ passing. His health worsened in the last few days. My condolences to his brother and everyone who loved him,” Vindu told India Today.
Deepshika Nagpal, a close friend, paid tribute on Instagram, sharing a heartfelt message and a photo: “I’ve been calling his number, hoping he’d pick up. This is heartbreaking.”
Actor Neil Nitin Mukesh expressed his sorrow, calling Mukul “a powerhouse performer and a lovely person,” while Manoj Bajpayee remembered him as “a brother in spirit” and an artist with unmatched warmth and passion.
Born on September 17, 1970, in New Delhi, Mukul Dev built a versatile career that spanned nearly 30 years across Hindi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Bengali, and Malayalam films — as well as television. He began his acting journey in 1996 with the TV series Mumkin, and made his Bollywood debut in Dastak opposite Sushmita Sen.
He earned praise for roles in R… Rajkumar, Jai Ho, and several regional films. Aside from acting, Mukul held a certificate in aeronautics from the Indira Gandhi Institute of Aviation in Raebareli and was an alumnus of St. Columba’s School, Delhi.
The film industry has lost a truly versatile and beloved figure. May his soul rest in peace.