Mushtaq Khan Dies at 56: Actor Remembered for Memorable Roles and Amitabh Bachchan’s Support

Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, known for his supporting and comic roles in Hindi cinema, died on September 24 at the age of 56. His death was confirmed by Federation of Western India Cine Employees president BN Tiwari. Khan had reportedly been battling lung cancer for some time. His passing has prompted tributes from the film industry and renewed attention to his long career across Hindi films, television and theatre.

Khan began his acting career in the 1980 film Albert Pinto Ko Gussa Kyon Aata Hai and went on to appear in several popular movies. His filmography included Aashiqui, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Hera Pheri, Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Welcome, Wanted, Oh My God! and Stree. He also appeared in the Gadar franchise, playing the character Gullu alongside Sunny Deol.

For many viewers, Khan remained particularly memorable for his role as Ballu in Welcome. His comic sequence involving his artificial leg became one of the film’s most recognised scenes. The dialogue from the sequence was widely remembered and later circulated extensively on social media.

Beyond his acting career, an old interview has brought attention to Khan’s personal recollection of Amitabh Bachchan’s assistance during his early years in Mumbai. Khan had recalled that he was newly married when he was working with Bachchan on a film. He told the veteran actor about his difficulty in securing a home.

According to Khan, Bachchan helped him apply under an artist quota connected with a government housing scheme. Khan said Bachchan asked him to submit a letter and directed him to take it to then-Maharashtra politician Sharad Pawar. Khan recalled that within three days, he received a call from Bachchan’s office informing him that the letter was ready. He subsequently secured a flat in Kandivali.

Khan had also worked with Bachchan in films including Kaalia and Main Azaad Hoon. With a career spanning decades and numerous supporting performances, Khan leaves behind a body of work that continues to be remembered by Hindi film audiences.