Satish Shah dies at 74: Revisiting his life, Bollywood career
What's the story
Veteran actor Satish Shah, who played Indravadhan Sarabhai in the popular sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, has passed away. He was 74. The news of his demise was confirmed by his manager on Saturday. As per India Today, he passed away due to kidney failure. Shah's career spanned nearly five decades and included over 200 films and television series, making him one of India's most beloved humorists.
Background
Shah's early life and education
Shah was born in Mandvi, Gujarat, to a Kutchi Gujarati family. He graduated from St. Xavier's College in Mumbai and later enrolled at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) to hone his acting skills. His acting versatility shone in the 1984 show Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, where he portrayed 55 distinct characters over 55 episodes, a rare feat on TV.
Career highlights
His work on television
Shah's on-screen chemistry with Ratna Pathak Shah in Zee TV's Filmy Chakkar (1995) charmed audiences. Their pairing became iconic in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai (2004), with Shah's character, Indravadhan, gaining fame for his witty one-liners. He also starred in Ghar Jamai (1997) and All The Best (DD2), leading over 100 episodes.
Filmography
He gained fame for 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro'
Shah debuted in films with Arvind Desai Ki Ajeeb Dastaan (1978), but it was Kundan Shah's acclaimed movie Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983) that brought him widespread fame. His role as the corrupt Municipal Commissioner D'Mello remains one of Hindi cinema's most iconic comic performances. He went on to feature in character roles in mainstream movies such as Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003), Main Hoon Na (2004), Fanaa (2006), and Om Shanti Om (2007).
Personal details
His personal life and legacy
Shah had been married to designer Madhu Shah since 1972, and the couple did not have children. He was known for keeping his personal life private. In July 2020, he was hospitalized during the COVID-19 pandemic but recovered after a week at Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital. Following the commercial failure of his 2014 film Humshakals, Shah largely stepped away from acting but left behind a legacy that shaped Indian comedy for nearly half a century. May he rest in peace.