Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, known for films including Welcome, Hera Pheri and Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, has died at 56. His business partner told Hindustan Times that Khan had previously battled lung cancer, but the disease relapsed about eight days before his death on September 24, 2026.
Mushtaq Khan Died on September 24 After His Cancer Relapsed
Mushtaq Khan died at around 7 pm on Thursday, September 24, according to his business partner Shivam. He had previously undergone treatment for lung cancer and had recovered before the disease returned.
Shivam told Hindustan Times that Khan was admitted to hospital after the relapse. He also said the cancer had reached an advanced stage.
Reports said Khan was receiving treatment at Nanavati Hospital in Mumbai.
The news marks the loss of a familiar face from Hindi cinema, particularly known for supporting and comic roles across several decades.
What Happened to Mushtaq Khan?
According to his business partner, Mushtaq Khan had earlier been diagnosed with lung cancer and had recovered following treatment. The cancer reportedly returned around eight days before his death, after which his condition deteriorated.
Hindustan Times reported that Khan was subsequently hospitalized for treatment. The information about the cancer relapse was provided by his business partner, rather than through an official medical statement.
Mushtaq Khan Was Best Known for Welcome and Hera Pheri
Mushtaq Khan built a long career as a character actor and appeared in numerous Hindi films.
His filmography included Hera Pheri, Welcome, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Rowdy Rathore, Gadar 2, Badhaai Do and Stree 2.
One of his most remembered appearances came in Welcome, where he played Balu, a character involved in one of the film’s widely remembered comic sequences.
Khan also worked with several leading actors during his career, establishing himself as a dependable supporting performer rather than a conventional leading man.
Mushtaq Khan Also Worked Extensively on Television
Khan’s work was not limited to Hindi cinema. He also appeared in television productions during his career.
His television credits included shows such as Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi and other popular programmes.
His ability to move between comedy, supporting roles and character-driven parts made him a recognisable presence for audiences across film and television.
Mushtaq Khan’s Career Spanned Several Decades
Khan remained active across different phases of Hindi cinema and continued appearing in films in recent years.
His later credits included Gadar 2, Badhaai Do and Stree 2, showing that he continued to take on supporting roles well into his later career.
His death has renewed attention on the character actors whose performances often became an important part of Hindi films despite them not being the central stars.
Mushtaq Khan’s Legacy Goes Beyond One Iconic Role
For many viewers, Mushtaq Khan will be remembered through his comic performances in films such as Welcome and Hera Pheri. However, his career extended considerably beyond those appearances.
From television to major commercial Hindi films, Khan worked consistently as a supporting and character actor. His passing at 56 brings an end to a career that spanned several decades.
Why it matters: Khan’s death is a reminder of the contribution made by character actors who often give Hindi cinema its memorable supporting personalities and comic moments.
FAQ Section
Who was Mushtaq Khan?
Mushtaq Khan was a veteran Hindi film and television actor known for supporting and comic roles in films including Welcome, Hera Pheri and Gadar: Ek Prem Katha.
How did Mushtaq Khan die?
According to his business partner, Khan died after a relapse of lung cancer that occurred about eight days before his death.
How old was Mushtaq Khan when he died?
Mushtaq Khan was 56 years old when he died on September 24, 2026.
What was Mushtaq Khan’s most famous role?
He was particularly remembered for playing Balu in Welcome, alongside Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif.
Was Mushtaq Khan in Hera Pheri?
Yes. Mushtaq Khan was part of the cast of Hera Pheri and appeared in several other popular Hindi films.
