Veteran Bollywood actor Mushtaq Khan, known for his memorable supporting roles in Welcome, Hera Pheri and Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, has reportedly passed away in Mumbai on Thursday, September 24, 2026. The actor, whose career spanned several decades, was widely recognised for his comic timing and impactful performances in Hindi cinema.
According to media reports, Mushtaq Khan was admitted to Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai after his condition reportedly turned critical. He was placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) and is said to have breathed his last later that evening.
Reports also indicated that the actor had been battling liver cancer. However, an official statement from his family confirming the cause of death was awaited at the time of writing.
Mushtaq Khan’s reported demise marks the loss of a familiar face in Indian cinema, particularly for audiences who remember his performances in popular Bollywood films of the 1990s and 2000s.
Mushtaq Khan’s Early Struggles and Association With Mahesh Bhatt
Mushtaq Khan’s journey in the film industry began with theatre, where he developed his acting skills before moving into mainstream cinema.
His breakthrough opportunity came through a recommendation from veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, who noticed his work and introduced him to filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt.
In an earlier interview, Mushtaq recalled the difficulties he faced while trying to connect with Bhatt. He did not have a telephone at home and reportedly paid a neighbourhood grocer Re 1 for every message received on his behalf.
After days of waiting, he finally received a call from Bhatt’s team. The opportunity led to his role in Kabzaa (1988), marking the beginning of a long professional association with the filmmaker.
Mushtaq subsequently appeared in several Mahesh Bhatt films, including Aashiqui, Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, Sadak, Junoon, Sir, Gumrah, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Naaraaz and Chaahat.
These projects helped establish him as a dependable supporting actor capable of bringing depth and authenticity to a wide range of characters.
Mushtaq Khan’s Memorable Role as Ballu in Welcome
Among Mushtaq Khan’s most widely recognised performances was his role as Ballu in Anees Bazmee’s hit comedy Welcome (2007).
Starring Akshay Kumar, Katrina Kaif, Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor, the film featured Mushtaq as a hockey player whose artificial-leg story became one of its memorable comic sequences.
His dialogue and distinctive screen presence made Ballu a recognisable character among audiences, despite the role being a supporting one.
Mushtaq returned as Ballu in Welcome Back (2015), reprising the character for the sequel.
His performance in Welcome remains one of the defining highlights of his career and a major reason audiences continue to associate him with the popular comedy franchise.
From Hera Pheri to Gadar: Ek Prem Katha: Mushtaq Khan’s Popular Films
Mushtaq Khan built an extensive filmography across comedy, drama, action and commercial entertainers.
In Hera Pheri (2000), he played Devi Prasad’s servant, appearing alongside Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal.
He also portrayed Gul Khan in the 2001 blockbuster Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, starring Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel. He returned to the franchise with Gadar 2 in 2023.
Over the years, his film credits included Jodi No. 1, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Wanted, Bala, Badhaai Do and Stree 2.
His ability to move between comic characters and serious supporting roles made him a consistent presence in mainstream Hindi cinema.
Mushtaq Khan’s Television Career and Recent Projects
Beyond films, Mushtaq Khan also worked in television. He was notably seen as Baldev Tripathi in the popular television series Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi.
The actor continued to remain professionally active in the years leading up to his reported death.
His recent screen credits included Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain, Drop Out, Hum Angrezon Ke Zamane Ke Jailor Hai and Cocaine, reflecting his continued association with the entertainment industry in 2026.
His long career brought him opportunities to work across generations of actors, filmmakers and television performers.
Mushtaq Khan Remembered for His Contribution to Hindi Cinema
Mushtaq Khan’s career reflected the contribution of character actors who often played supporting roles but left a lasting impression on audiences.
From his early association with Mahesh Bhatt to his memorable appearances in Welcome, Hera Pheri and Gadar, he became a familiar presence across several generations of Hindi film viewers.
Only weeks before his reported demise, Mushtaq had spoken publicly about his early struggles and the opportunity that changed the course of his career.
As news of his reported passing emerges, audiences are remembering the actor for the memorable characters he brought to the screen and his contribution to Hindi cinema over several decades.
