Actor-filmmaker Dheeraj Kumar passes away at 79 after battling pneumonia; family releases statement

Veteran actor and producer Dheeraj Kumar has passed away at the age of 79, his family confirmed on Tuesday. Known for his roles in films like Manoj Kumar’s Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and for producing popular TV shows such as Om Namah Shivay and Adalat, Kumar had been battling acute pneumonia. He was admitted to the ICU at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he died around noon.

A close family friend, Ajay Shukla, shared that Kumar was hospitalized on Saturday after suffering from fever, cold, and cough, and was moved to intensive care due to his age. Kumar’s last rites are scheduled for Wednesday at the Pawan Hans Crematorium.

In a heartfelt statement, his family remembered him as a loving and generous soul — always laughing, always giving, and a true gentleman who was a father figure and mentor to many in the industry. “He will be remembered not just as an actor but as a gentle soul and guide. We thank everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time,” they said.

In 1986, he founded the production company Creative Eye Limited, which became influential in Indian television. Under his leadership, the company produced hit shows like Om Namah Shivay (which aired on Doordarshan from 1997 to 2001), Shree Ganesh, Rishton Ke Bhanwar Mein Uljhi Niyati, Adalat, and Ghar Ki Lakshmi Betiyann — leaving a lasting legacy in the industry.