Shocking Truth Behind Mukul Dev’s Death – Was It More Than Illness?

The Indian film industry is in shock following the untimely death of an ace actor, Mukul Dev, on May 23, 2025, at 54 years old. Famous for his gritty performances in Hindi, Punjabi, and South Indian cinema along with many television shows, Dev’s tragic passing has left his co-actors, friends, and followers in shock and grief. His older brother, actor Rahul Dev, confirmed the tragic news, saying Mukul had died peacefully last night in New Delhi.

Also Read: Bhool Chuk Maaf Review: Time-Loop Rom-Com That Keeps Circling Back to Its Potential

Mukul Dev’s Sudden Death Leaves Fans Heartbroken

Mukul Dev was ill for some time now and had been undergoing treatment in a Delhi hospital for the last 8-10 days, even though the details of his illness have not been made known. His death was announced widely, with several industry veterans mourning his premature death and shock at losing a dear person.

Actor Deepshikha Nagpal, a regular friend of Mukul, had the news confirmed to SCREEN and was visibly shocked. “I had been in touch with him. We were part of the same crew, and whenever he was in Mumbai, we would meet. He even attended my song launch. I don’t believe it till now. He did Punjabi films. We had a batch in which we spoke a lot.“.

Life is actually so unpredictable. I woke up to this news and I’m still in shock. He was just 54. Such a wonderful human being. I still cannot believe it. Krushna, Rajniesh, and I had done a film with him, and we had such a good time. It’s just so tragic.” Her words highlight the close relationships Mukul had built within the industry.

Also Read: Bhool Chuk Maaf Review: Time-Loop Rom-Com That Keeps Circling Back to Its Potential

Rahul Dev’s Statement on Mukul Dev’s Passing

Rahul Dev, the elder brother of Mukul, posted a sad message and a picture, confirming the sad news and details of the last rites. “We are extremely saddened to announce that our brother Mukul Dev passed away peacefully last night in New Delhi. He leaves behind his daughter Sia Dev and will be sincerely missed by his siblings Rashmi Kaushal, Rahul Dev, and his nephew Sidhant Dev.“. The cremation will be done today at 5 PM.” The note created an image of a family struggling to cope with a colossal loss, emphasizing the individual void Mukul’s death has left.

Son of Sardaar 2: Mukul Dev’s Last Film and Legacy

Veteran actor Manoj Bajpayee went to social media to express his sorrow, saying, “It is not possible to put into words what I am experiencing. Mukul was a brother in every sense, an artist whose fire and passion there were none to match. Left too soon, too young. Seeking strength and healing for his family and for all mourning this loss. Missing you my jaan…until we meet again, Om Shanti.”. ????????” Bajpayee’s words say a lot regarding his personal relationship and respect for Mukul.

Actor Vindu Dara Singh also expressed his condolence, verifying the news to India Today. He uncovered a more personal aspect of Mukul’s recent personal battles. “After his parent’s death, Mukul was keeping to himself. He would even step out of the house or meet anyone.”. His health worsened over the last few days and he was hospitalized. My sympathies to his brother and all those who knew and loved him.

He was a wonderful person, and we will miss him all.” Vindu also mentioned that although he did not know of a particular disease, Mukul had begun drinking heavily and eating gutkha, causing him to put on weight. This honest observation paints a picture of a man who may have been struggling with personal demons later in his life. Vindu also tweeted, “Rest in peace my brother #MukulDev! The time spent with you will always be cherished and #SonOfSardaar2 will be your swansong where you will spread joy and happiness to the viewers and make them fall down laughing!”

A Versatile Career Spanning Decades

Born on 17th September 1970 in New Delhi, Mukul Dev began his acting career in 1996 with the television series Mumkin. The same year also saw him make his film debut in the movie Dastak opposite Sushmita Sen. This double debut laid the foundation for a career of varied roles and an irrefutable screen presence.

During his career, Mukul Dev adorned both the small and big screens, leaving behind an unmatched legacy with his work. On television, he was a regular in top shows like Gharwali Uparwali, Kasshish, Ssshhhh…Phir Koi Hai, and Kumkum – Ek Pyara Sa Bandhan, among many others. His versatility to play diverse genres and portray diverse characters with sincerity earned him a coveted place as an actor. His filmography is just as impressive, with appearances in popular Hindi movies such as Jal, R… Rajkumar, Son of Sardaar, Himmatwala, and Dastak.

Outside of Bollywood, Mukul Dev also played important roles in Punjabi and South Indian cinema, demonstrating his linguistic range and dedication to his work. He was appreciated for his performances in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, and Bengali films, further affirming his reputation as a pan-Indian actor. His latest film is said to be Ajay Devgn-starrer Son of Sardaar 2, which Vindu Dara Singh hopes will be his last, filling the audience with smiles and laughter.

A Fulfilling Ride:

Mukul Dev Talks In a 2021 interview with HT, Mukul Dev reminisced about his 25-year career in Bollywood as a long and rewarding one. “Even if I want to, I cannot complain.”. The type of launch I received with Dastak and then the films that I did afterwards. I did TV, Hindi films and regional films afterwards. It is extremely fulfilling and when I see the competition that is happening today, I feel that I have done quite well for myself.

It is not so bad at all,” he had said, displaying his satisfaction and humility. He also stated that he had no regrets regarding the course of his career, as he felt that he had created a niche for himself. “Somehow making a career in acting over the years, I have somehow without me realising done and allowed people to call me when they feel that this particular role that this guy can do.”.

The casting calls I receive are largely quite typical roles such as Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) and I am sure they would not have called anyone else but me. Even when I worked on 21 Sarfarosh – Saragarhi 1897, I could understand why they called me for it,” he said. This thought resonates with his unique style of acting and the appreciation he gained due to his specific strengths.

Mukul Dev was a graduate of the St. Columba’s School in Delhi and also possessed a certificate in aeronautics from the Indira Gandhi Institute of Aviation in Raebareli, which only goes to emphasize a well-rounded set of non-acting interests.

A Legacy Remembered

As the industry says goodbye to Mukul Dev, his legacy in Indian television and cinema will surely not be forgotten. From the early days in Dastak to his meaningful roles in parallel cinema, he charted a difficult landscape with poise and ability. Though details of his health issues are kept under wraps, the overflow of love and admiration from colleagues speaks volumes of the profound effect he had on his co-workers.

Mukul Dev’s death at what was a comparatively young age is a biting reminder of the vagaries of life. He is survived by his daughter Sia Dev, his brothers Rashmi Kaushal and Rahul Dev, and his nephew Sidhant Dev, as well as a huge oeuvre that will keep entertaining and inspiring in the years to come. May his soul rest in peace.