Hyderabad, May 24, 2025: Renowned Bollywood actor Mukul Dev, aged 54, passed away on May 23 in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a Delhi hospital due to health complications. His untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the film industry. His brother, actor Rahul Dev, confirmed the tragic news. While the exact cause of Mukul Dev’s death remains undisclosed, sources indicate he had been battling health issues in the days leading up to his passing.
Mukul Dev was celebrated for his versatile roles across Indian cinema. He left an indelible mark with performances in Hindi films such as Son of Sardaar, R… Rajkumar, Jai Ho, and Yamla Pagla Deewana, alongside appearances in Punjabi, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Bengali films. His career also extended to television, where he made significant contributions. Mukul began his acting journey in 1996 with the TV serial Mumkin and gained recognition for his role as ACP Rohit Malhotra in the film Dastak alongside Sushmita Sen. His last on-screen appearance was in the 2022 Hindi film Anth The End.
Rahul Dev confirmed his brother’s passing via an Instagram story, stating, “Our beloved brother Mukul Dev passed away peacefully last night in Delhi. He leaves behind his daughter Siya Dev, siblings Rashmi Kaushal and Rahul Dev, and nephew Siddhant Dev. His funeral will take place on Saturday at 5 PM in Delhi.”
Close friend and actress Deepshikha Nagpal expressed her grief on social media, sharing an old photo with Mukul and writing, “Can’t believe this, Muks… RIP.” Speaking to IANS, she added, “We were friends beyond the screen. We used to chat regularly in a phone group, but this time he didn’t mention anything about his health. This is unbelievable. He was a remarkable actor and an incredible person.”
Actor Vindu Dara Singh also mourned Mukul’s loss, telling India Today, “After his parents’ passing, Mukul kept to himself. He rarely stepped out or met anyone. His health deteriorated in the last few days, leading to his hospitalization. My condolences to his brother and everyone who loved him. He was an extraordinary person, and we will all miss him.”
Born into a Punjabi family in Delhi, Mukul Dev was the son of Hari Dev, a former Assistant Commissioner of Police proficient in Pashto and Persian, who introduced Mukul to Afghan culture during his childhood. A trained pilot from the Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi in Raebareli, Mukul worked as a commercial pilot for nearly a decade before transitioning to acting. Notably, during his 8th grade, he earned his first income by impersonating Michael Jackson in a Doordarshan dance show.
Mukul Dev’s career spanned over two decades, with memorable roles in films like Qila, Wajood, Kohram, and Mujhe Meri Biwi Se Bachao. On television, he appeared in popular serials such as Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii and Pyaar Zindagi Hai, and hosted the first season of Fear Factor India. His final project, Son of Sardaar 2, saw him share the screen with Ajay Devgn and Mrunal Thakur, marking a poignant end to his cinematic journey.
Several industry figures, including Sonu Sood and Manoj Bajpayee, took to social media to express their condolences. Sonu Sood tweeted, “Mukul Bhai, you were a gem. We’ll miss you forever. Stay strong, Rahul Dev Bhai.” Manoj Bajpayee wrote, “Mukul was like a brother. His warmth and passion were unmatched. Gone too soon, too young. I pray for strength for his family and all those grieving.”
Mukul Dev’s passing leaves a void in the Indian film industry. His diverse roles, humble demeanor, and dedication to his craft will ensure his legacy endures, according to film analysts. Further details regarding his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
