Veteran Actor and Producer Dheeraj Kumar Hospitalized in Critical Condition

Veteran actor, director, and television producer Dheeraj Kumar, also known as Dheeraj Kochar, has reportedly been admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Four Bungalows, Andheri West, Mumbai. As per initial reports, his condition is said to be critical, though official confirmation from the family or hospital is awaited.

Dheeraj Kumar is a respected name in the Indian entertainment industry, with a prolific career spanning across Bollywood, Punjabi cinema, and television. He began his journey in the 1960s and went on to act in acclaimed films like Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), Sargam (1979), Swami (1977), Heera Panna, and Shreeman Shrimati. The iconic song "Ka Karoon Sajani, Aaye Na Balam" from Swami was picturised on him, and remains a memorable part of Hindi film music history.

A finalist in the 1965 United Producers and Filmfare talent contest — alongside names like Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna — Kumar found early visibility through modeling, appearing in popular advertisements like Vicks Action 500. From 1970 to 1984, he appeared in 21 Punjabi films, further cementing his place as a versatile performer.

In 1986, Kumar turned to television production and founded Creative Eye Limited, a company that went on to produce several well-known TV serials and religious dramas. He currently serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of the company.

The film and television fraternity is anxiously awaiting updates on his health. Tributes and prayers for his recovery have begun to pour in from fans and colleagues. His contribution to Indian entertainment — both on-screen and behind the scenes — remains significant and deeply respected.