Veteran Hindi cinema and television performer Mushtaq Khan, well-known for his memorable comic and supporting parts, has passed away at the age of 56. The actor died on Thursday evening, September 24, 2026. He was recently seen in Gadar 2 and Stree 2, receiving praise for his performances in both projects. His extensive filmography featured titles such as Aashiqui, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Hera Pheri, Jodi No. 1, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Welcome, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Rowdy Rathore, and Badhaai Do, among others.
Mushtaq Khan’s Cause Of Death Revealed
Before his passing, the late actor had been receiving treatment at Mumbai’s Nanavati Hospital. According to a confirmed report from HT City, he died at approximately 7 pm on Thursday. Having previously battled and recovered from lung cancer, he suffered a relapse eight days prior to his death, requiring hospitalization as the disease had reached its final stage.
The performer also earned critical acclaim for his supporting work in the Sony TV series Kuch Rang Pyaar Ke Aise Bhi, portraying Supriya Pilgaonkar’s brother and Shaheer Sheikh’s maternal uncle—a character that won him the Best Supporting Actor award.
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Mushtaq Khan’s First Salary!
Throughout a lengthy career shared alongside numerous prominent stars of Hindi cinema, Khan avoided being restricted to a single archetype, transitioning fluidly between comedy, drama, and supporting roles. He began his journey in a project titled Trapti. Speaking in an interview with the YouTube channel Yugcharan, the actor revealed he was paid just Rs 35 for the movie, which marked his first time facing the camera and featured Sanjeev Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, and Smita Patil. Following that, his next notable role arrived in Naseeruddin Shah’s Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyun Aata Hai.
Connection With Amitabh Bachchan
During the same interview, Khan shared that Amitabh Bachchan assisted him in acquiring an apartment under the Chief Minister’s quota. Thanks to a handwritten recommendation letter from Bachchan, he was able to secure the flat for only Rs 2 lakh, even though its actual value ranged between Rs 12 and 15 lakh.
Being Paid Less Than Akshay Kumar’s Staff!
In a conversation with Digital Commentary, the actor disclosed that his compensation on certain sets may have fallen below that of Akshay Kumar‘s personal staff. He remarked, “Bhaiya jo Akshay Kumar ka staff hai naa usse bhi kam mila hoga. Jis hotel mein hum rukte the, usi hotel mein inke staff rukte the. This is life. Unfortunately, hamari filmon mein star ko leke jo paisa kharch hota hai, wo hota hai. Hum to economy mein chale jaate the. Welcome ki main baat kar raha hun.”
Applauded Stree 2 Producer Dinesh Vijan!
However, within that same discussion, Khan acknowledged that certain producers and studios are actively working to close the financial disparity. He stated, “Bahut filmmakers hain jo is bhedbhav ko khatam kar rahe hain. Jaise main ek film kar raha hun Stree 2. Wahan bahut pyaar se rakha jaata hai, bahut dhyaan rakha jaata hai. Wahan aisa lagta hai ki humlog sab ek saath hain. Maine Yashraj ki ek series ki hai, The Railway Men, usme bhi bada dhyaan rakha gaya!”
Khan’s later years were also marked by a distressing kidnapping ordeal after he accepted an invitation to an event in Uttar Pradesh. According to his business partner, the actor was lured using an event invitation, an advance payment, and booked flights before being abducted and transported from Delhi to Bijnor. Reports from that period indicated he was held captive for several hours while his kidnappers demanded a ransom.
His passing at age 56 brings a close to a decades-long career that established him as a familiar and beloved fixture across both movies and television.
Koimoi extends its condolences to his family and friends. May his soul rest in peace.
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