After prolonged illness, veteran Bollywood actor Dara Singh passed away on Thursday morning. The wrestler-turned-actor was admitted to the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital on Saturday following a cardiac arrest and was later found to have suffered serious brain damage.
The 83-year-old actor was brought home after five days of battling for his life in the hospital and spent the last moments with family and friends. Ram Narain, COO at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, told PTI news service: “He passed away at 7.30 AM peacefully.”
Mr Singh, India’s favourite wrestling hero who was awarded a Rustam-e-Hind for his prowess, never lost a fight in his life. He began his acting career in 1952 starring in the film ‘Sangdil’ and went on to star in some iconic films and television shows. He will always be fondly remembered for playing the part of Hanuman in the TV blockbusters ‘Ramayan’ and ‘Mahabharat’ that brought him closer to families across the country.
His last onscreen role was in the hit Imtiaz Ali film ‘Jab We Met’ in 2007 where he portrayed the character of lead actress Kareena Kapoor’s grandfather.
Mr Singh was also a former Rayja Sabha member in the Indian parliament. Following his death, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh conveyed his condolences: “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Shri Dara Singh, who has been an inspiration and icon to many generations in our country.
“A self-educated son-of-the-soil, he rose to the heights of the entertainment world, sports arena and public life with humility and grace. His contribution to the Hindi and Punjabi cinema, wrestling and the Upper House of the Parliament will be remembered by millions.”
We at Bhangra.org will remember the spirit of Dara Singh and wish his family and friends the deepest courage at this time of grief.
Latest Comments