Mukul Dev passes away: From Ajay Devgn, Kangana Ranaut to Sushmita Sen, industry mourns his loss

The Indian film industry has been struck by a wave of shock and sorrow with the sudden passing of actor Mukul Dev at the age of 54. Known for his impactful roles across Hindi, Punjabi, and South Indian cinema, as well as television, Mukul’s death has left a void that is being deeply felt by colleagues, fans, and friends alike. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, but the emotional tributes pouring in reflect the deep love and admiration people had for him.

The heartbreaking news was acknowledged by actor Vindu Dara Singh, who took to social media platform X to share his grief. “Rest in peace, my brother #MukulDev! The time spent with you will always be cherished and Son of Sardaar 2 will be your swansong where you will spread joy and happiness to the viewers and make them fall down laughing!” he wrote.

Soon after, messages from the film fraternity began flooding social media, with many expressing disbelief and heartbreak over the untimely demise of the actor. Actor Sonu Sood, who worked with Mukul Dev in several films, expressed his grief with an emotional message on X: “RIP Mukul bhai. You were a gem. Will always miss you. Stay strong @RahulDevRising bhai.” His words echoed the sentiments of many in the industry.

Ajay Devgn, visibly shaken by the news, shared on Instagram, “Mukul, it's all too soon and sudden. You had a way of making everything lighter, even on the heaviest days. Om Shanti.”

Kangana Ranaut wrote a short but heartfelt message: “Terribly sad. RIP Mukul Ji.” Actress Deepshikha Nagpal shared a throwback photo with Mukul and captioned it, “I can't believe this muks. RIP.”

Actor Manoj Bajpayee was at a loss for words. His emotional post read, “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. Praying for strength and healing for his family and everyone grieving this loss. Miss you meri jaan…until we meet again, Om Shanti.” Neil Nitin Mukesh also extended his condolences to the family, tweeting, “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, @mugdhagodse267, and the entire family. God be with you all during these tough times.”

Director Hansal Mehta, devastated by the news, posted a picture of Mukul and wrote, “Not done Mukul mere dost... so many more stories, so much more laughter. See you on the other side, my dear friend.” Arshad Warsi added, “Heart broken to hear about Mukul Dev. I was really fond of him. He was a friend, colleague, a wonderful person with a beautiful soul… may his soul rest in peace…”

Even actors from the South Indian film industry paid their respects. Jr. NTR, who worked with Mukul in Adhurs, tweeted, “Saddened by the passing of Mukul Dev garu. Remembering our time in Adhurs and his commitment to the craft. My condolences to his family. Om Shanti.” Tusshar Kapoor also expressed his sorrow on X, remembering Mukul as a fine talent and a kind human being.

Born on 17 September 1970 in New Delhi, Mukul Dev was a trained actor who debuted in the entertainment industry with the television show Mumkin in 1996. He made his film debut in the same year with Dastak, which also marked Sushmita Sen’s Bollywood entry.

Over the years, Mukul showcased his versatility by taking on roles in Hindi, Punjabi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Bengali films. Some of his most well-known works include Yamla Pagla Deewana, Son of Sardaar, R... Rajkumar, and Jai Ho. Whether it was playing a villain, comic relief, or a supporting character, Mukul had the rare ability to fit seamlessly into any role.

He also appeared in numerous television shows and was known for his affable personality and dedication to his craft. Mukul Dev is survived by his daughter Sia Dev, his siblings Rashmi Kaushal and Rahul Dev, and nephew Sidhant Dev. His elder brother, actor Rahul Dev, shared an official family statement on Instagram, which read:

“Our brother Mukul Dev passed away peacefully in New Delhi last night. He is survived by his daughter Sia Dev. Missed by siblings Rashmi Kaushal, Rahul Dev and nephew Sidhant Dev. Please join us for cremation at 5 PM.”

His final appearance in the upcoming Son of Sardaar 2 is now being seen as a bittersweet farewell, a performance that will be cherished by audiences and serve as a reminder of the joy he brought to the screen.

Rest in peace, Mukul Dev.