Popular Bollywood actor Mukul Dev has passed away at the age of 54. The sudden demise has left fans and the film industry heartbroken. Read full details, reactions, and tributes.
Veteran Actor Mukul Dev Passes Away at 54; Bollywood Pays Emotional Tribute
Renowned actor-model Mukul Dev passed away at the age of 54 in New Delhi on May 23, 2025. The actor had reportedly been hospitalised for over a week and died peacefully in his sleep, according to his family.
Mukul, who rose to fame in the 1990s after being launched by Amitabh Bachchan’s management company, was the younger brother of actor Rahul Dev. In a heartfelt family statement shared on Instagram, Rahul confirmed Mukul’s passing and mentioned he is survived by his daughter Sia Dev.
Emotional Reactions from Film Fraternity
Several Bollywood celebrities expressed shock and sorrow over the sudden demise of Mukul Dev:
Salman Khan, Sushmita Sen, Ajay Devgn, and Anupam Kher paid tribute to the late actor, calling him a “wonderful soul”.
Manoj Bajpayee wrote:
“Mukul was a brother in spirit, an artist whose warmth and passion were unmatched. Gone too soon, too young. Miss you meri jaan… until we meet again. Om Shanti.”
Vindu Dara Singh said “He was depressed after his mother’s passing. Mukul was very close to his parents. After their demise, he grew lonelier and started drinking more. Despite his struggles, he was a fantastic actor.”
Close Friends Recall Their Bond
Deepshikha Nagpal, a long-time friend, shared:
“He was such an amazing human being. I woke up to this news and I’m still in shock. Life is really unpredictable.”
Rituparna Sengupta, co-star in Abhisandhi, said:
“I feel heartbroken. He was a brilliant actor and a warm soul.”
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta’s Moving Tribute
Filmmaker Hansal Mehta, who worked with Mukul on multiple projects, posted a lengthy, emotional note:
“Mukul’s career was a story of near-breakthroughs. Those ‘what ifs’ quietly chipped away at his spirit. Behind his laughter was a quiet sadness.”
Hansal also revealed that Mukul contributed the story for his film Omertà and expressed deep pride when it was finally made.
Life and Career
Born: New Delhi
Profession: Actor, Writer, Trained Pilot
TV Debut: Mumkin (1996)
Film Debut: Dastak opposite Sushmita Sen
Notable Films: Qila, Kohram, Wajood, Son of Sardaar, R… Rajkumar, Jai Ho, Anth The End
Popular TV Shows: Gharwali Uparwali, Kasshish, Fear Factor India (host), Ssshhhh Phir Koi Hai
Personal Life
Mukul was married to Shilpa Dev, with whom he had a daughter, Sia. The couple separated in 2005. Despite media speculation, Mukul had once stated that family matters were private and he preferred not to comment.
Final Days and Public Appearance
A final video from the sets of Son of Sardaar 2 showed a visibly frail yet smiling Mukul alongside Vindu Dara Singh. The film marks his last Bollywood appearance.
Industry Reactions Continue
Actor Rizwann Sikander, his co-contestant on Fear Factor India, shared how Mukul supported and believed in him:
“He was the first to celebrate my victory and constantly motivated me.”
Kishwer Merchant remembered him fondly:
“He used to imitate me and bring so much joy on sets. ‘Mukli,’ as I called him, will be missed.”
A Symbolic Goodbye by Pooja Bhatt
Filmmaker Pooja Bhatt shared a quote from Jonathan Livingston Seagull, symbolizing Mukul’s free spirit and individuality:
“Driven by freedom, purpose, and self-realization… a unique soul has taken flight.”
A Versatile Star Gone Too Soon
Mukul Dev was known for his powerful performances in films like Dastak, Qila, Mujhe Meri Biwi Se Bachao, Yamla Pagla Deewana, and Son of Sardaar. His talent spanned across genres—from intense dramas to light-hearted comedies. He also made a remarkable impact on television with shows like Kahin Diyaa Jale Kahin Jiyaa and 21 Sarfarosh: Saragarhi 1897.
Fans and colleagues alike are mourning his unexpected departure. Many took to social media to express their grief. One heart-touching message read:
“I still can’t believe that Mukul Dev is no more. He passed away at just 54. It’s true—life is so uncertain, you never know when death will come. Death doesn’t look at age; when the time comes, everyone has to go.”
This sentiment echoes the shock and sorrow felt by many who admired his work and presence.
Industry Reactions
Celebrities such as Manoj Bajpayee, Anupam Kher, and Sonu Sood expressed their condolences, praising Mukul Dev’s talent and humble personality. “He was not just a brilliant actor, but also a wonderful human being,” tweeted Manoj Bajpayee. “Gone too soon. Rest in peace, brother,” said Sonu Sood.
A Life Dedicated to Art
Born in Delhi, Mukul Dev was trained at the prestigious Bhartendu Academy of Dramatic Arts and later at the National School of Drama. Acting ran in the family—his brother Rahul Dev is also a well-known actor. Mukul carved his own path in the industry with dedication, discipline, and sheer love for cinema.
Fans Remember a Gentle Soul
Apart from his acting, fans remember Mukul Dev for his soft-spoken nature and grounded attitude. Tributes have been pouring in with old clips, interviews, and memorable scenes shared across social media.
His final Instagram post just days before his passing was filled with positivity and gratitude—making his sudden death all the more shocking.
Final Goodbye
According to family sources, the last rites will be performed in Delhi, his hometown. A prayer meeting is expected to be organized by close friends from the industry later this week.
Funeral Details
The cremation was scheduled for 5 PM in New Delhi. The Dev family requested privacy as they mourned the untimely loss.
Mukul Dev’s legacy lies not just in his films but in the lives he touched with his warmth, laughter, and spirit. The film industry and his fans will remember him as a gifted artist, a loving father, and a soul full of potential and passion.
Rest in Peace, Mukul Dev.