Veteran actor-producer Dheeraj Kumar passes away at 79

Veteran actor and television producer Dheeraj Kumar, best known for his roles in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and his work behind hit shows like Om Namah Shivay and Adalat, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 79.

He died at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital due to complications from acute pneumonia.

His family released a heartfelt statement remembering him as a kind, generous soul who was not only a celebrated artist but also a mentor and father figure to many in the industry.

Kumar’s career spanned over five decades. He entered the film world as a finalist in a 1965 talent contest that also launched Rajesh Khanna and Subhash Ghai. He starred in Hindi and Punjabi films like Raaton Ka Raja, Sargam, and Kranti, and later made a successful transition into television production.