Indian Celebrities Who Tragically Passed Away From Heart Attacks

Tragedy often strikes unexpectedly, and the recent loss of several beloved Indian celebrities to heart attacks has left us reeling. As we mourn the untimely departures of icons who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, we are compelled to confront a sobering reality: heart disease can affect anyone, regardless of age or status. Over the last three years, India has seen a sharp increase in heart attack deaths. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reports that the number of heart attack fatalities has increased by an unbelievable 12% in 2022 alone.
 

In this blog, we delve into the lives of these remarkable individuals and explore how we can take proactive steps to safeguard our own hearts against similar fates.

Indian Celebrities Lost to Cardiac Arrest

1. Rituraj Singh
 

Popular television actor Rituraj Singh, renowned for his roles in numerous TV shows and films, passed away at the age of 59 due to a sudden cardiac arrest on February 20, 2024. Known for his remarkable performances in shows like 'Anupamaa' and 'Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii', as well as web series like 'Criminal Justice' and 'Bandish Bandits', Singh's sudden demise has left the industry mourning. 

He was hospitalised due to pancreatic issues and unfortunately succumbed to a heart attack on Monday night.   Singh's legacy in both television and theatre will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

2. Kavita Chaudhary 
 

Veteran actor Kavita Chaudhary, known for her roles in 'Udaan' and iconic commercials, passed away at 67 due to a sudden heart attack on February 15, 2024. She left an enduring legacy on Indian television, portraying IPS Kalyani Singh in 'Udaan' and Lalita-ji in popular ads. 

Chaudhary's demise comes after battling cancer for several years. Chaudhary's significant contributions to empowering women, both on-screen and off, have left an indelible mark on Indian television. Her iconic roles and impactful performances continue to inspire and resonate with audiences.

3. Marimuthu
 

Marimuthu, a Tamil film actor and director, passed away on September 8th, 2023, due to a sudden heart attack, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. Hailing from Pasumalaitheri in Theni, Tamil Nadu, he pursued his cinematic dreams in Chennai. Marimuthu directed films like "Kannum Kannum" (2008) and "Pulivaal" (2014), though his directorial career saw mixed success. However, it was his acting, notably in the TV series "Ethirneechal," and movies like "Pariyerum Perumal" and Rajinikanth’s "Jailer" that earned him acclaim. 

According to reports, G Marimuthu passed out in Chennai at 8:30 a.m. on Friday while while dubbing for his TV series Ethirneechal. After being taken to a local hospital, he was declared dead. Renowned for his comedic timing and spontaneous humour, Marimuthu often improvised his lines, endearing himself to audiences with his unique charm.

4. R. S. Shivaji
 

R. S. Shivaji, an esteemed figure in the Tamil film industry, passed away on September 2, 2023, at the age of 66 due to sudden cardiac arrest in his residence. Known for his versatility as an actor, co-director, sound designer, and line producer, Shivaji made significant contributions to Tamil cinema. 

Shivaji appeared in a number of successful and highly acclaimed films, including Apoorva Sagodharangal, Michael Madana Kama Rajan, Anbe Sivam, Soorarai Pottru, Kolamavu Kokila, and Gargi. With a career spanning decades, Shivaji left a lasting impact on the industry with his memorable performances and behind-the-scenes work.

5. Satish Chandra Kaushik
 

Satish Chandra Kaushik, a versatile figure in Indian cinema, passed away from a sudden heart attack on March 9, 2023, at 66. His impactful career spanned Bollywood and theatre, highlighted by iconic roles in "Mr. India" and acclaimed performances in "Ram Lakhan" and "Saajan Chale Sasural." Kaushik's talent extended beyond acting to writing and directing, with notable contributions to comedy classics like "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron." 

Despite setbacks, his dedication to promoting regional cinema remained steadfast. His sudden demise serves as a poignant reminder of life's fragility, yet his legacy of creativity and innovation endures in the hearts of fans.

6. Mayilsamy
 

Mayilsamy (2 October 1965 – 19 February 2023) was an Indian actor and comedian renowned for his supporting roles in Tamil cinema. He gained fame for his comedy tracks in films and was a regular judge on the TV show "Asathapovathu Yaaru." 

With over 200 film appearances spanning nearly four decades, Mayilsamy was celebrated for his mimicry skills and won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Comedian for his role in "Kangalal Kaidhu Sei." He passed away from a sudden cardiac arrest in Chennai at the age of 57.

7. T. P. Gajendran
 

T. P. Gajendran, a revered figure in the Tamil film industry, passed away on February 5, 2023, succumbing to a sudden cardiac arrest after undergoing treatment for kidney problems. Beginning his acting journey in 1985 with "Chidambara Rahasiyam," he showcased his versatility by portraying various characters ranging from protagonists to antagonists and comedians. 

Renowned for his talent and ability to evoke laughter, Gajendran left an indelible mark on Tamil cinema with his versatile acting skills.

8. Raju Srivastav 
 

Raju Srivastav, born in 1963 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, was a renowned Indian comedian, actor, and politician. Known for his observational comedy, he rose to fame through shows like "The Great Indian Laughter Challenge." Besides his comedic career, he ventured into politics, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. Despite facing challenges, he remained active in social and political spheres. 

Srivastav's sudden demise on September 21,  2022, due to a sudden cardiac arrest after 41 days of hospitalisation, saddened many, leaving behind a legacy as the "King of Comedy" and a prominent figure in Indian entertainment and politics.

9. Singer KK
 

KK (Krishnakumar Kunnath), born on August 23, 1968, was a prominent Indian playback singer known for his versatile voice. Beginning his career with advertising jingles, he made his mark in Bollywood with hits like "Tadap Tadap Ke" from “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam” and "Kya Mujhe Pyaar Hai" from *Woh Lamhe...*. 

He also ventured into Tamil music, delivering popular tracks like "Appadi Podu" from *Ghilli*. With no formal training, KK's emotional depth and versatility earned him acclaim. Tragically, he passed away on May 31, 2022, at the age of 53, following a sudden cardiac arrest after a concert in Kolkata.

10. Puneeth Rajkumar
 

Puneeth Rajkumar, born on March 17, 1975, was a celebrated Indian actor, singer, and philanthropist known for his work in Kannada cinema. He began as a child artist and later excelled in lead roles, starring in numerous successful films like "Appu," "Milana," and "Raajakumara." Puneeth was also actively involved in philanthropy, endorsing causes like education and public transportation. 

Tragically, he passed away on October 29, 2021, at the age of 46, due to a sudden cardiac arrest, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and humanitarian efforts.

11. Sidharth Shukla
 

Sidharth Shukla, the accomplished Indian actor, host, and model, passed away unexpectedly on September 2, 2021, at the age of 40, due to a sudden heart attack. Known for his impactful roles in Hindi television and films, including "Balika Vadhu" and "Broken But Beautiful 3," Shukla's versatile talent garnered widespread acclaim. 

He rose to prominence as the winner of reality shows like "Bigg Boss 13" and "Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 7," showcasing his prowess beyond scripted performances. His untimely demise shocked the industry and fans alike, leaving behind a legacy of charisma and talent that will be remembered for years.

12. Rajiv Kapoor
 

Rajiv Kapoor (25 August 1962 – 9 February 2021) was an Indian actor, film producer, and film director known for his lead role in "Ram Teri Ganga Maili." He was part of the renowned Kapoor family in Bollywood, with notable contributions to cinema. Kapoor made his debut in 1983 and appeared in several films, including "Aasmaan," "Lover Boy," and "Hum To Chale Pardes." After a hiatus from acting, he produced and directed films. 

His comeback film, "Toolsidas Junior," was released posthumously in 2022. In personal life, he was briefly married to architect Aarti Sabharwal from 2001 to 2003. Kapoor passed away from a sudden heart attack at the age of 58 while staying at his brother Randhir's residence in Mumbai.
 

13. Vivek
 

Comedy actor Vivek, best known for his roles in Tamil cinema, passed away on April 17, 2021, due to cardiac arrest. He was 59 years old. Vivek had been hospitalised a day earlier after suffering a heart attack. Vivek was a staple in Tamil cinema, with memorable roles in films like "Anniyan", "Shivaji", "Saamy", and "Thirumalai". 

He always delivers humour with a social message, and he also organised a COVID-19 vaccine awareness campaign two days prior to his death. He actively included himself in many campaigns about environmental causes and education. He was also close with Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and started an awareness campaign on planting trees. Vivek’s legacy continues to live on, both through his remarkable contributions to Tamil cinema and the positive social impact he made during his life.

How can we prevent early-stage heart attacks?

Reflecting on the tragic loss of these 13 Indian celebrities who passed away due to heart attacks, it is a stark reminder for us to take care of our heart health, especially at a young age. While it is devastating to lose such talented individuals, their untimely deaths can serve as a wake-up call for us all to prioritise our own heart health and take steps to prevent such tragedies from happening to ourselves or our loved ones.  

What can be done? Well, preventing heart attacks, particularly at a young age, requires proactive measures and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Here are some key steps we can take to protect our hearts:

1. Healthy eating: Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and sugary snacks, which can contribute to common heart diseases. 

2. Regular exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine, aiming for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Try activities like walking, cycling, or swimming are excellent for cardiovascular health.

3. Avoid smoking: If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your heart. Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease and heart attacks.

4. Limit alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise blood pressure and contribute to heart problems. It is recommended to limit alcohol intake to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. Avoid binge drinking entirely.

5. Manage stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as practising mindfulness, yoga, or spending time with friends and family. Chronic stress can take a toll on your heart health, so it's essential to find effective coping strategies.

6. Regular check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall heart health. Early detection of risk factors can help prevent heart attacks before they occur.

7. Know the warning signs: Educate yourself about the warning signs of a heart attack, including chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and lightheadedness. Recognising these symptoms and seeking prompt medical attention can save lives.
 

8. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of heart disease. Aim to maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI) by combining a nutritious diet with regular physical activity. Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly lower the risk of heart-related issues.
 

9. Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for heart health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve overall cardiovascular function. Poor sleep is linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
 

10. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water throughout the day helps maintain healthy blood circulation and supports overall heart function. Avoid excessive caffeine or sugary drinks, as these can have negative effects on heart health.

The Bottom Line

By adopting these preventive measures and making heart-healthy choices in our daily lives, we can reduce the risk of heart attacks and cardiac arrest and safeguard our well-being for years to come. Let us honour the memory of these talented celebrities by taking proactive steps to protect our most vital organ - the heart.

Take charge of your heart health today – start making small, sustainable changes in your lifestyle. Prioritise regular check-ups, healthy eating, and physical activity to lower your risk of heart disease. It's never too early to start caring for your heart, and every step counts.

“The Heart That Loves Is Always Young - Greek.”

Reference 
 

1. https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases
2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronary-heart-disease/prevention/
3. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/life-after-a-heart-attack/lifestyle-changes-for-heart-attack-prevention

Note: The information provided in this blog is intended for general knowledge. It is important to remember that it should not replace professional medical advice. If you have any concerns about your heart or related symptoms, please consult a healthcare provider.