Bollywood veteran actor Satish Shah passed away this afternoon at the age of 74. His health suddenly worsened at home, and he was rushed to Hinduja Hospital, where he succumbed to kidney-related issues.
In a career spanning over four decades, Shah appeared in several iconic films such as *Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro*, *Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa*, *Main Hoon Na*, *Kal Ho Naa Ho*, and *Om Shanti Om*. He was also a beloved face on television, remembered for hit shows like *Dekh Bhai Dekh* and *Sarabhai vs Sarabhai*. Apart from Hindi cinema, he also acted in Marathi films and theatre.
Actor-director Sachin Pilgaonkar, who directed Shah in his first Marathi film *Gammat Jammat* (1987), shared fond memories and revealed emotional details about Shah’s final months.
“*Gammat Jammat* was the first Marathi film Satish acted in. We became very close friends during the shoot. Soon, our families—mine and Supriya’s, Satish and Madhu’s, along with Ashok Saraf and Laxmikant Berde’s families—started meeting regularly. We’d get together two or three times a month. Even though Satish and I never worked together again, our friendship only grew stronger,” Pilgaonkar said.
He added, “Satish and Madhu were always warm and loving. We made sure they were part of every premiere and celebration. It’s hard to imagine celebrating anything without him now.”
Pilgaonkar further shared that Satish had been battling health issues in recent months. “He underwent a kidney transplant earlier this year and was on dialysis. He wanted to live longer so he could take care of Madhu, who is suffering from Alzheimer’s. He had also undergone a successful bypass surgery earlier.”
Just three days ago, Pilgaonkar’s wife Supriya visited the couple. “Satish played some music, and Madhu danced. She even remembered her old cha-cha-cha moves,” he recounted emotionally.
“Satish and I often texted each other. I even got a message from him at 12:56 pm today, so this has come as a complete shock. The industry has lost a gem, but for me, it’s a huge personal loss,” he said.
Reflecting on life, Pilgaonkar added, “You never know what awaits you. Satish always believed in spreading happiness, and that’s what we should all try to do.”
Satish Shah’s demise leaves a significant void in the Indian entertainment industry. He will be fondly remembered for his versatile acting and the joy he brought to audiences across generations. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fans.
https://www.bollywoodlife.com/viral-stories/you-dont-know-what-awaits-you-sachin-pilgaonkar-mourns-close-friend-satish-shah-3271455/
