Indian actor and comedian Mushtaq Khan, best known for his role in Welcome, has died at 75 in Mumbai after battling cancer, his son confirmed.
WEBDESK-Zunaira Fatima
Veteran Indian actor and comedian Mushtaq Khan, widely recognised for his memorable performance in the 2007 Bollywood comedy Welcome, has died at the age of 75 after battling cancer, according to the Press Trust of India.
Khan passed away on Thursday, September 24, at Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai, where he had been receiving treatment. His son, Mohsin Khan, confirmed his death, saying the actor had been fighting cancer.
Khan became particularly popular for portraying Ballu, the loyal associate of Uday Shetty, in Welcome. His character, a hockey player with a fake leg, became widely recognised for the humorous dialogue, “Meri ek taang nakli hai,” which gained renewed popularity on social media years after the film’s release.
Born in Baihar, Madhya Pradesh, Khan began his acting career with the 1980 film Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyoon Aata Hai? Over several decades, he established himself as a familiar face in Hindi cinema, appearing in more than 500 film roles.
His notable film appearances included Hera Pheri, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke and Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. Through his supporting and comic roles, Khan became known for his distinctive screen presence and performances across different genres.
The actor’s death prompted tributes from colleagues in the Indian film industry. Actor Sunny Deol, his co-star in Gadar, expressed condolences to Khan’s family and remembered him as a fine actor and a good human being.
Actor Rajpal Yadav also paid tribute, saying he had met Khan only hours before his death. Yadav recalled shaking his hand and speaking with him, expressing disbelief over the sudden loss of his colleague.
Khan’s performance in Welcome gained particular recognition among younger audiences through online clips and social media discussions, bringing renewed attention to his work years after the film’s release.
His death marks the loss of a veteran supporting actor whose career spanned several decades and included numerous popular Hindi films.
Khan is survived by his wife and two children, a son and a daughter. His family and colleagues are mourning his death as tributes continue to emerge from the film industry.
