The untimely death of actor Mukul Dev on May 23, 2025, at the age of 54, has left the Indian entertainment industry reeling. Mukul was a talented and versatile actor with a keen ability to act with emotional depth in Hindi and Punjabi cinema and on television, and his (too) early passing has created a void for fans, colleagues and friends.
A Lifetime of Achievement
Mukul Dev has worked as an actor for more than two decades, earning acclaim for his impactful performances in commercial Bollywood films as well as Punjabi films. Unlike many stars that sought the limelight, Mukul built a solid reputation quietly and confidently through his work, gain respect not only for his acting performance but for his integrity and warmth as a person.
Some of Mukul’s more recent films included Jal, R… Rajkumar, Son of Sardar, Himmatwala and Dastak, and he was always known for his sincerity and emotional depth in performance. He could certainly adapt to various character roles with ease – he could do serious drama and lighter comedic roles, and Michell understood that he was a reliable actor in Indian cinema. His work in Punjabi cinema dedicatedly secured his legacy to Punjabi art and culture; meanwhile, establishing a true bridge for Hindi and Punjabi audiences.
Television Presence and Lasting Impressions
Mukul Dev also had a strong presence on Indian television for many years, being part of various popular TV serials that endured public memory, like Gharwali Uparwali, Kasshish, Ssshhhh…Phir Koi Hai, and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan. On each of these contributions to the medium, Mukul effortlessly connected with audiences just as he able to do for film.
His performances were durable and memorable and he was always natural; his material didn’t need to be exceptional, because of his own unique presence and ability to enhance anything he did. Mukul wasn’t just another actor for most viewers, Hagel had the face of a friend that improved even the most mundane storylines.
A Gentle Spirit Remembered
For many, the news of Mukul Dev’s death was shocking, especially as it was reported he had been fighting health issues leading up to this time. He was hospitalized in the ICU in the days before he died, which compounded public concern for his well-being. Tributes flowed from industry friends and colleagues which characterized Mukul not just as an artist of great talent, but as a beautiful person of kindness and humility.
Actress Deepshikha Nagpal, who enjoyed a close bond with Mukul, expressed her grief, and spoke to the closeness Mukul enjoyed with his family:
“We were in the same group of friends, and whenever he came to Mumbai, we would meet. He even came to my song launch. Even now I cannot believe this. He was only 54. Such a marvelous human being.”
She also recounted Mukul’s details of family: “He lived with his mother and daughter, and had a group of friends that he was still in touch with – confined to sending simple graphics messages within a group chat that they all were in – showing how down to earth he always was.”
Manoj Bajpayee, an actor that also has a deeply-skilled craft, gave a very emotion-filled homage on social media, calling Mukul, “a brother in spirit.” Bajpayee wrote:
“”Gone too soon, too young. Mukul’s warmth, artistry and passion were unmatched. Prayers for all loved ones with patience and healing. Miss you meri jaan… till we meet again. Om Shanti.”
What can speak volumes about the heart-felt words of Bajpayee is, it shows that in the motion picture industry and entertainment sector, Mukul was more than just a co-worker. He was family to many of the people in this industry.
Vindu Dara Singh, who was another close friend of Mukul’s, was probably one of the few who witnessed the actor’s more private side,
“After his mother and father’s death, Mukul went into hiding. He never once came out…which is quite the nebulous misbehavior in the industry for these performers. He didn’t see anyone. His health was waning and deteriorating in the last few days, and he was in the hospital. My sincerest condolences to his brother and all who the beloved knew and loved. He was a magnificent person, and all of us will miss him.”
These few insights into Mukul’s human dilemma made it even better to acknowledge his existence. Too many of us forget that behind each of these facades, they are all still human beings, facing these dilemmas, about them still being human, usually not in front of camera, at the mercy of a psyche which we may not yet comprehend.
Neil Nitin Mukesh also recognized his sadness at the passing of Mukul Dev, and also recognized him in a post on social media:
“Really upset with sad news of dear Mukul leaving us so soon. A powerhouse performer and a lovely person. My thoughts and deepest condolences to @RahulDevRising @mugdhagodse267 and all the family. God be with you all during these hard times. Om Shanti.”
Legacy, history and impact on society
Mukul Dev’s impact with cinema and television in India cannot be understated. Although Mukul wasn’t always standing in said limelight as the leading man with chipmunk cheeks, he was still essential in all the stories he got to aid in creating. Mukul was another relentless worker in a hard business, whether large or small actor, and, as an actor, you couldn’t trust anything, but his passion and commitment for every part he was in; whether it was 5 minutes of role or a call-back as a lead with a character.
In a world where most value image, illusion, stardom and glamour, today greatness is rarely equivalent. Mukul’s journey was ‘silent’ success, he reminded us to value the commitment to ‘the work.’ I hope that young artists will recognize the value of this career and life. Generally, again, Mukul’s legacy is one example of how perseverance and commitment to one’s work and craft can survive and create an arc of an artistic legacy.
Saying good-bye
While many fans and friends continue to think of Mukul Dev and what this loss means, the loss is ultimately personal. We always believe a person who passes too early at about only 54 years to leave this earth make fans and friends beg for more; however, not just more worth or performance from Dev, but they were remiss not to recognize or spend time with these artistic individuals. The lesson we should all take from this reflection of Mukul’s loss is to appreciate and acknowledge all the artists that bring us ordinary hours of talents and gifts as a part of their life while we never think to acknowledge or appreciate that they too are still human beings worthy of our time and humanity.
Mukul Dev’s journey with cinema and television was one of passion, love, zeal and fulfillment of honesty, artistic growth and to see performance as being alive, with failure so very common. The characters may have closed the curtains on a screen, yet the spirit of Dev will remain within the hearts of the people that recognized his talents and abilities and the audience he engaged with and entertained.
To the family, friends and fans, we express our greatest sympathies. May Mukul Dev’s soul rest in peace.