Remembering Indian Artists Who Passed Away in 2024

Shyam Benegal was born on 14 December 1934 in Trimulgherry, Hyderabad, British India [now Tirumalagiri, Hyderabad, Telangana, India]. He was a director and producer, known for Ankur (1974), Trikal (Past, Present, Future) (1985) and Bhumika (1977). He was married to Nira Benegal. He died on 23 December 2024 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Zakir Hussain was born on 9 March 1951 in Bombay, State of Bombay, India [now Mumbai, Maharashtra, India]. He was a composer and actor, known for Apocalypse Now (1979), The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015) and Monkey Man (2024). He was married to Antonia Minnecola. He died on 15 December 2024 in San Francisco, California, USA.

Rituraj Singh was born on 23 May 1964 in Kota, Rajasthan, India. He was an actor, known for Thunivu (2023), Ssshhhh... Koi Hai (2001) and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii (2000). He was married to Charu Singh. He died on 20 February 2024 in Mumbai.

Atul Parchure was a TV actor who was more active in small screen both in Hindi and Marathi Shows. He hailed from Mumbai where he was born on 30th November 1966. He was brought up in Mumbai only. He did his schooling and college from Mumbai and during his college days, he was linked with theaters. He did several Marathi and Hindi plays and soon got the chance to work on a small screen. Some of his plays include Tarun Turk Mhatare Arka, Priyatama and Vasu Chi Sasu. He then entered into small screen with the Hindi film called Bedardi released in 1993.

He then appeared in several Bollywood actors like Shah Rukh Khan and others Some of his films in Bollywood include Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, Meri Pyaari Bahania Banegi Dulhania, Kyo Kii... Main Jhuth Nahin Bolta, Style, Kyaa Dil Ne Kahaa, Chor Machaye Shor, God Only Knows, Calcutta Mail, Jajantaram Mamantaram, Tumsa Nahin Dekha, Yakeen, Kyo Ki, Chakachak, Kalyug, and Anjaane - The Unknown to name a few. Some of his recent movies include Pappu's Path, Choron Ki Baraat, Zindagi 50 50, Narbachi Wadi, Love Recipe, Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein, Zakaas, and Khatta Meetha.

He also did M Town films and his debut film included Navra Maza Navsacha, Aamhi Satpute, and Dattoba Lingappa Kaikini. He has also appeared for a number of Hindi and Marathi TV shows as well, which include R. K. Laxman Ki Duniya as Bhavesh Vasavda at Sab TV, Comedy Nights with Kapil in various characters, Comedy Circus as Himself, Comedy Circus Ke Ajoobe - in Guest performance with Paresh Ganatra, Rajiv Thakur, and Sunil Grover Bh Se Bhade - Bhimsen Ganguly as Boss, a cameo in Badi Door Se Aaye Hai - Ghost, Yam Hain Hum - Chitragupt, Honar Sun Me Hya Gharchi - Mahanand Borkar Janhavi's Boss and Bhago Mohan Pyare.

He died on Oct 14, 2024 at the age of 57 after battling with cancer for more than a year.

In 2023, he revealed that he was diagnosed with cancer and doctors found a 5 cm tumour in his liver.

In an interview with Bombay Times in July 2023, he revealed, "I was mentally prepared that something was wrong with me. Despite maintaining a positive outlook, the absence of work caused him sleepless nights. It's not like negative thoughts didn't cross my mind. I had many sleepless nights worrying about when I would resume work. On one hand, the income stopped, while the expenses began, and the costs for cancer treatment are enormous."

Suhani Bhatnagar was born on 14 June 2004 in Faridabad, Haryana, India. She was an actress, known for Dangal (2016). She died on 16 February 2024 in Delhi, India.

Vikas Sethi was born in Ludhiana, Punjab, India. He was an Indian actor best known for TV shows like Kahiin To Hoga (2007), Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bhu Thi (2000-2007) and Kasautii Zindagii Kay (2008). He also worked in blockbuster Bollywood feature film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001). He appeared in the fourth season of Nach Baliye, performing along with his then wife, Amita. He married to Jhanvi Sethi in February 2018 and they have two twin sons who were born in 2021. On September 2024 he died due to cardiac arrest.

Pankaj Udhas was born in Navagadh village of Jetpur in Gujarat,India. started his career debut album in 1970 "Munne Ki Amma Yeh To Bata" with Actor-singer Kishore Kuma but his fame was in the film Naam (1986) in which he did playback for 'Chithi Aai Hai' and made him a household name. Compilation and Live Shows performed all over the world and also worked as a playback singer in hit films. Udhas had studied at Sir Bhavsinhji Polytechnic Institute, Bhavanagar. His family moved to Mumbai and Udhas After that he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree at Wilson College and St Xavier's College, Mumbai.

Met the renowned Veena player, Abdul Karim Khan, who taught him to play the Dilruba. When Udhas was a child, his father would play the Dilruba, a stringed instrument. Seeing his and his brother's interest in music, his father enrolled them at the Sangeet Academy in Rajkot. Udhas initially enrolled to learn the tabla but later began learning Hindustani vocal classical music from Ghulam Qadir Khan Sahab. Udhas then moved to Mumbai to train under the tutelage of Navrang Nagpurkar, a singer from the Gwalior Gharana.

A song titled Chandi Jaisa Rang hai tera, sone jaise bal was sung by Pankaj Udhas. Pankaj Udhas' older brother, Manhar Udhas was a stage performer who aided Pankaj in his introduction to musical performance. His first stage performance was during the Sino-Indian War when he sang "Aye Mere Watan Ke Logo" and was given Rs.51 by an audience member as a reward.

Started training in Indian classical vocal music under the tutelage of Master Navrang. Udhas's first song was in the film "Kamna" a solo composed by Usha Khanna and written by Naqsh Lyallpuri, the film was a flop, but his rendition was very much appreciated. Subsequently, Udhas developed an interest in ghazals and learned Urdu to try to pursue a career as a ghazal singer. He spent ten months in Canada and the US doing ghazal concerts and returned to India with renewed vigor and confidence. After his ghazal album, Aahat was released in 1980. From this, he began to have success, and Nasha (1997) Mukarrar (1981) and Tarrannum (1982) have released more than fifty albums and hundreds of compilation albums.

In 1986, Udhas received another opportunity to perform in the film, in the film Naam, which brought him fame. In 1990, he sang the melodious duet "Mahiya Teri Kasam" with Lata Mangeshkar, for the movie Ghayal. This song achieved immense popularity. In 1994, Udhas sang the notable song, "Na Kajre Ki Dhar", from the film Mohra along with Sadhana Sargam which also became very popular. He continued working as a playback singer, making some on-screen appearances in films such as Saajan, Yeh Dillagi, Naam, and Phir Teri Kahaani Yaad Aayee. His album Shagufta launched by Music India in December 1987 was the first to be released on compact disc in India. Later, Udhas started a talent hunt television program called Aadab Aarz Hai on Sony Entertainment Television. Actor John Abraham calls Udhas his mentor. Udhas's ghazals talk about love, intoxication, and sharab.

His family hails from a town named Navagadh near Rajkot and were traditional landlords. He was the youngest of the three brothers. His parents were Keshubhai Udhas and Jituben Udhas. His eldest brother Manhar Udhas achieved some success as a Hindi playback singer in Bollywood films. His second brother Nirmal Udhas is also a well-known Ghazal Singer and was the first of the three brothers to start singing in the family. His grandfather was the first graduate from the village and went on to become the Diwan (revenue minister) of the Bhavnagar State. His father, Keshubhai Udhas, was a government servant.

Pankaj Udhas died, aged 72, of a prolonged illness at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, on 26 February 2024. His funeral was held on 27 February 2024 at the Hindu Crematorium in Worli, Mumbai.

Meghanadhan was born on 9 November 1964 in Trivandrum, Kerala, India. He was an actor, known for Rajadhani (1994). He was married to Sushmitha. He died on 21 November 2024 in Kozhikode, Kerala, India.

Delhi Ganesh was born on 1 August 1944 in Thirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor and producer, known for Chennai Express (2013), Pasi (1979) and Ayan (2009). He died on 9 November 2024 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Kaviyoor Ponnamma, born in Kaviyoor, Thiruvalla, Travancore, India, is a distinguished Indian actress celebrated for her remarkable contributions to the Malayalam film industry. With a career spanning several decades, she has left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences with her versatile performances.

Ponnamma's journey in the world of cinema began in the early 1970s, and she quickly garnered attention for her acting prowess. One of her notable early roles was in the critically acclaimed film "Nirmalyam" (1973), where her performance was widely appreciated for its depth and authenticity. This marked the beginning of a prolific career that would see her become a respected and beloved figure in the industry.

The year 1974 witnessed another milestone in Ponnamma's career with her role in "Nellu." The film, known for its social relevance and impactful storytelling, showcased her ability to portray diverse characters with finesse. Over the years, Ponnamma continued to impress audiences and critics alike with her exceptional acting skills, earning accolades for her memorable performances.

In 1989, she graced the silver screen with her role in "Devadas," further solidifying her reputation as a seasoned actress. Throughout her career, Ponnamma has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to various genres, seamlessly transitioning between intense dramas and lighthearted comedies.

Beyond her contributions to cinema, Kaviyoor Ponnamma has also been actively involved in the cultural and social fabric of Kerala. Her dedication to the arts and her commitment to her craft have earned her the admiration of fans and the respect of her peers in the industry.

With a career spanning several decades and a legacy of impactful roles, Kaviyoor Ponnamma continues to be an influential and beloved figure in the world of Indian cinema. Her enduring passion for acting, coupled with her immense talent, has left an indelible mark on the rich tapestry of Malayalam cinema.

Asha Sharma was an Indian film and television actress. She worked in 35 films including 1920, Humko Tumse Pyar Hai, Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam and Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai. She was also been a part of super hit television shows like Mann Kee Awaaz Pratigya and Meet Mila De Rabba. Asha Sharma was well-known for her appearances as a mother and grandma in films and on television. She received praise for her performance in Dharmendra and Hema Malini's film Do Dishayen, which also starred Prem Chopra, Aruna Irani, and Nirupa Roy. She has worked on a number of important projects, including Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai, Pyaar To Hona Hi Tha, and Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam. She last appeared in Prabhas and Kriti Sanon's film Adipurush. She has also appeared in television shows like as Kumkum Bhagya, Mann Ki Awaz Pratigya, and Ek Aur Mahabharat, among others.

She died on August 25, 2024 and the news was confirmed by CINTAA's official Twitter handle.

Uma Das Gupta was born on 12 September 1941 in Pabna, Bengal, British India [now Pabna, Bangladesh]. She was an actress, known for Pather Panchali (1955) and Lokkhi Chele (An Angel's Kiss) (2022). She died on 18 November 2024 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

He was one of India's most famous fashion designers, known for blending his country's rich cultural heritage with contemporary styles. He graduated from Delhi's St Stephens College with a degree in history, and worked in his family's export business for a few years. After completing his education in fashion design at the National Institute of Fashion Technology in Delhi, he started his own label and eventually opened several stores in India, the Middle East and Europe.

Manoj Mitra was born on 22 December 1938 in Satkhira, Bengal Presidency, British India [now in Satkhira, Bangladesh]. He was an actor and writer, known for Bancharamer Bagan (1980), Narak Guljar (2009) and Post Mortem (1980). He died on 12 November 2024 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

Mohanarajan, known professionally as Mohan Raj or Keerikkadan Jose, was an Indian actor and a retired assistant enforcement officer. Raised in Kanjiramkulam, Thiruvananthapuram, he later settled in Chennai. He appeared in Malayalam, Telugu, and Tamil films, primarily in villainous roles. Although he had a minor role in Moonnam Mura (1988), his first credited role was in the 1989 film Kireedam, where he played the notorious Keerikkadan Jose, a performance that earned him his stage name. Over the course of his career, he acted in over 300 films, mostly in Malayalam. After acting in Kireedam, Raj was dismissed from his position at the Enforcement Directorate. However, he rejoined the agency in 2010 after a lengthy legal battle and took voluntary retirement in 2015. His last film appearance was in Rorschach (2022).

Vijay Kadam was born in 1957. He was an actor, known for Tere Mere Sapne (1996), Irasaal Karti (1987) and De Danadan (1987). He died on 10 August 2024 in Mumbai.

C.I.D. Sakunthala was born in Arisipalayam, Salem, Tamilnadu, India. She was an actress, known for Punnagai Mannan (1986), Agathiyar (1972) and Thirumalai Thenkumari (1970). She died on 17 September 2024 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

Kanakalatha was born on 24 August 1960 in Kollam, Kerala, India. She was an actress, known for Uppukandam Brothers Back in Action (2011), Varnapakittu (1997) and Rajavinte Makan (1986). She died on 6 May 2024 in Thiruvanathapuram, India.

Ameen Sayani was born on 21 December 1932 in Bombay, Bombay Presidency, British India [now Mumbai, Maharashtra, India]. He was an actor and writer, known for Andaz Apna Apna (1994), Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India (2001) and Ishq (1997). He was married to Rama Muttu and Rama . He died on 20 February 2024 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Daniel Balaji was born on 2 December 1975 in Madras, Tamil Nadu, India. He was an actor, known for Vettaiyaadu Vilaiyaadu (2006), Yennai Arindhaal (2015) and Vada Chennai (2018). He died on 29 March 2024 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Nishadh Yusuf was born in 1980 in India. He was an editor and writer, known for Thallumaala (2022), Kanguva (2024) and Petta Rap (2024). He died on 30 October 2024 in Kochi, Kerala, India.

Dolly Sohi was born on 15 September 1975 in India. She was an actress, known for Jhanak (2023), Devon Ke Dev... Mahadev (2011) and Parineetii (2022). She was married to Avneet Dhanowa. She died on 8 March 2024 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Dr. Sharda Sinha (1 October 1952 - 5 November 2024) was an Indian folk and classical singer. Hailing from Bihar, she predominantly sang in Maithili and Bhojpuri language and is called Bihar Kokila, the cuckoo of Bihar. Sinha has sung many folk songs including "Vivah Geet", "Chhath Geet". In 1991, she received the Padma Shri award for her contribution to music. She was awarded Padma Bhushan, India's third highest civilian award, on the evening of Republic Day in 2018. Sharda Sinha achieved the title of Nritya Visharad in Manipuri dance and held a master's degree in Indian classical music (vocal) along with a Ph.D. in her field. She received numerous awards throughout her career, notably the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2000, the Padma Shri in 1991, and the Padma Bhushan in 2018. These honors recognized her significant contributions to Indian folk music and her impact on preserving and advancing traditional music forms in India.

Sharda Sinha, a folk singer synonymous with Chhath, came out with two new songs on Chhath after a decade in 2018. Her last album of devotional songs was released in 2006.

In the songs - with lyrics like Supawo Naa Mile Maai and Pahile Pahil Chhathi Maiya - Sharda is urging people to come to Bihar during Chhath. Other Chhath songs played during the festival include Kelwa Ke Paat Par Ugalan Suraj Mal Jhake Jhuke, Hey Chhathi Maiya, Ho Dinanath, Bahangi Lachakat Jaaye, Roje Roje Ugelaa, Suna Chhathi Maai, Jode Jode Supawa and Patna Ke Ghat Par. Though old, the songs are relevant and devotees play them every year.

Sharda's last album on Chhath, Arag, had eight songs. In her entire career, she has sung 62 Chhath songs in nine albums released by T-Series, HMV and Tips. Sharda had also lent her voice to some Hindi film songs, like Kahe Toh Se Sajna in Maine Pyar Kiya, the movie in which Salman Khan made his debut. There are other songs by her in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Anurag Kashyap's critically acclaimed Gangs of Wasseypur (part II), Char Footiya Chokre and Nitin Neera Chandra's Deswa.

Sinha was suffering from multiple myeloma since 2017. She passed away on Nov 5, 2024 at the age of 72, due to complications from blood poisoning.

Sreela Majumdar was born in 1958 in India. She was an actress, known for In Search of Famine (1981), Target Kolkata (2013) and Mon Mayuree (1990). She was married to SNM Abdi. She died on 27 January 2024 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

Smriti Biswas was born on 17 February 1924 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. She was an actress, known for Baap Re Baap (1955), Dilli Ka Thug (1958) and Abe Hayat (1955). She was married to S.D. Narang. She died on 3 July 2024 in Nashik, Maharashtra, India.