Producer, director and actor T. Dheeraj Kumar, known as an iconic name in the world of Indian cinema and television, died on Saturday night at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was 79 years old and was suffering from pneumonia for some time. He was admitted to the ICU due to difficulty in breathing, but despite all efforts, his condition deteriorated, and he said goodbye to the world.
Journey from acting to direction
Dheeraj Kumar entered the film world in 1965 through a talent hunt competition. Rajesh Khanna and Subhash Ghai were also included in this competition with him. Rajesh Khanna became the winner, but Dheeraj Kumar also got a chance to work in films. He started with modeling and advertising and then made a mark in acting in 1970 with films like Deedar and Raton Ka Raja.
His major films include Heera Panna, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Kranti, and Sargam. Apart from this, he also acted in 21 Punjabi films and gained popularity there too.
Contribution to the world of television
Dheeraj Kumar showed his talent in acting as well as production and direction. He directed a children’s film like Aabra Ka Daabra and started his own production company named Creative Eye Limited. Under this company, he produced popular serials like Om Namah Shivay, Shree Ganesh, Jap Tap Vrat, Ghar Ki Laxmi Betiyan, and Ishq Subhan Allah.
Final farewell
The news of his demise has sent a wave of mourning in the film and TV industry. His son Ashutosh Kumar was present with him in the hospital at the last moment. The last rites will be performed on Wednesday, in which his relatives are expected to arrive from Punjab.
Dheeraj Kumar’s life has been an inspiration for the Indian entertainment world. The contribution he made in the field of acting, direction and production will remain an example for generations to come.