Mushtaq Khan Dies at 75: Veteran Bollywood Actor Passes Away After Cancer Battle
Veteran Bollywood actor Mushtaq Khan, a familiar face in Hindi cinema for decades, has died at the age of 75. The actor passed away on September 24, 2026, at a Mumbai hospital after battling cancer. His death has left the Hindi film industry mourning the loss of an actor who built a remarkable career through memorable supporting and comic performances.
Khan had reportedly been admitted to Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai after complaining of stomach pain. According to his son Mohsin, doctors discovered cancer, and his health deteriorated during the final days. He died at around 7 pm on Thursday, September 24.
Mushtaq Khan’s Long Bollywood Journey
Mushtaq Khan spent several decades working in the Indian entertainment industry. Over the course of his career, he appeared in more than 500 films, taking on supporting, character and comic roles.
Although he was rarely the lead actor, Khan became a recognisable presence on screen. His ability to add humour and personality to supporting characters helped him establish a strong connection with audiences.
Some of his better-known films include Welcome, Gadar, Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke and Jodi No. 1. His work in Welcome remains particularly memorable among Bollywood comedy fans.
Remembered for His Comic and Character Roles
Mushtaq Khan’s strength was his versatility. He could appear in serious scenes as well as comic sequences, often leaving an impression despite having limited screen time.
His role in Welcome became one of the performances associated with his later career. He was also part of several popular Hindi movies during an era when character actors played an important role in making ensemble films entertaining.
His career demonstrated how supporting performers can become familiar faces for audiences even without always being at the centre of the story.
Cancer Battle and Final Days
According to reports, Khan had previously been diagnosed with cancer and had undergone treatment. The disease reportedly returned before his final hospitalisation. Reports differ on some details concerning the type and progression of the cancer, but his family and associates confirmed that cancer was responsible for his death.
His son Mohsin said that Khan had been working until shortly before his hospital admission and had no major health problems that the family was aware of. He was reportedly involved in shooting for a film before his health suddenly worsened.
Mushtaq Khan’s 2024 Kidnapping Incident
Khan had also made headlines in 2024 after reportedly being kidnapped after travelling to attend an event in Meerut.
According to reports, he was allegedly lured to the event and later taken to a location near Bijnor, where he was held captive for several hours. The kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of around ₹1 crore. Khan eventually escaped and the incident was investigated by Uttar Pradesh Police.
The incident became one of the most unusual chapters of the veteran actor’s later life and attracted considerable media attention at the time.
Tributes Pour In
Following the news of his death, members of the film industry remembered Mushtaq Khan for his work and personality.
Director Anees Bazmee, who worked with Khan in Welcome, expressed shock at his passing and described him as a remarkable artist and a beautiful person. Actor Anupam Kher also remembered Khan and spoke about his calm nature and sense of humour.
A Career That Spanned Generations
Mushtaq Khan’s career represents the contribution of character actors to Hindi cinema. While audiences often remember the leading stars, performers such as Khan helped build the atmosphere, humour and emotional depth of countless films.
From Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke and Jodi No. 1 to Welcome and other popular projects, he continued working across generations of Bollywood.
His passing marks the end of a long acting journey that lasted several decades. For many viewers, Mushtaq Khan will remain one of those instantly recognisable supporting actors whose appearance could add a distinctive touch to a film.
Mushtaq Khan was 75. He passed away on September 24, 2026, in Mumbai.