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Punjabi cinema lost one of its most beloved icons on August 22, 2025, as veteran actor and comedian Jaswinder Bhalla passed away at the age of 65. The celebrated entertainer died at Fortis Hospital in Mohali following a brief illness.
His close friend, Bal Mukand Sharma, confirmed that Bhalla had been admitted two days earlier after falling seriously ill. He had reportedly been under the weather for some time before suffering a brain stroke on the evening of August 20.
Despite emergency care, his condition worsened, and he breathed his last on Friday morning. His last rites will take place in Mohali on August 23, where family, friends, and admirers will gather to bid farewell to the comedic giant.
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A Life of Laughter: Jaswinder Bhalla’s Legacy
Jaswinder Bhalla was not just a comedian, he was a multifaceted talent who blended intellect, satire, and cultural wisdom to create unforgettable characters and performances.
His journey began in the academic halls of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, where he completed his MSc and went on to become Head of the Department of Extension Education. Despite a thriving academic career, Bhalla’s heart belonged to performance. In 1988, he released the first edition of the now-legendary Punjabi audio comedy series ‘Chhankata’, introducing characters like Chacha Chatar Singh, who became household names.
‘Chhankata’ became a staple of Punjabi households, known for its biting wit and socio-political satire. Bhalla’s humor was grounded in reality, relatable and incisive, while always steeped in Punjabi culture.
As his popularity grew, Bhalla transitioned to Punjabi cinema, where he became one of the most iconic comic actors of his generation. His filmography includes blockbuster hits such as:
- Carry On Jatta
- Jatt & Juliet 2
- Mahaul Theek Hai
- Jatt Airways
- Mel Karade Rabba
- Power Cut
One of his most iconic roles was as Advocate Dhillon in Carry On Jatta (2012), where the line “Advocate Dhillon ne kala coat aiwi ni paya” became immortalized in Punjabi pop culture.
He also collaborated with fellow satirist Jaspal Bhatti, notably in the cult classic Mahaul Theek Hai (1999), a sharp commentary on law enforcement and politics.
Even in his later years, Bhalla continued delivering hit performances, including his roles in Carry On Jatta 3 and Shinda Shinda No Papa, which demonstrated his enduring talent and appeal. His son, Pukhraj Bhalla, has followed in his footsteps and is now a prominent actor in Punjabi cinema.
Beyond the screen, Bhalla was also known for his humility and warmth. A touching anecdote recalls him taking a selfie with a schoolgirl who didn’t own a mobile phone. When she couldn’t access the picture, Bhalla made it viral online so she could eventually see it, a gesture that captured the hearts of many.
Tributes Pour In Across the Nation
As the news of his passing broke, tributes poured in from political leaders, fans, and celebrities alike. Many took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express their grief and admiration.
Bhagwant Mann (Punjab Chief Minister):
“The sudden departure of Jaswinder Bhalla Ji from this world is extremely sorrowful. The heart is saddened by the silence of the jingle of Chhankata. May Waheguru grant him a place at His feet. Chacha Chatra will always reside in our hearts.”
Amrinder Singh Raja Warring (Punjab Congress Chief):
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Jaswinder Bhalla ji. A proud Punjabi voice around the world, his contribution and love for the community will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.”
Manish Sisodia (AAP Leader):
“Punjab’s famous comedian Jaswinder Bhalla Ji’s demise is extremely saddening… He brought smiles to millions. I pray to God to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family during this difficult time. Om Shanti.”
Manjinder Singh Sirsa (Delhi Minister):
“The stage of Punjabi laughter stands silent & empty today… Jaswinder Bhalla ji was a living symbol of Punjabi wit, humour and spirit. With his unmatched talent, he turned simplicity into laughter and made generations smile. Waheguru ji bless his noble soul with peace.”
Several celebrities from the Punjabi entertainment industry, including Gippy Grewal, Neeru Bajwa, Binnu Dhillon, and Happy Raikoti, also shared emotional tributes. They remembered Bhalla as not just a co-star, but a mentor and a genuinely kind soul who brought joy to every set and scene he graced.
Jaswinder Bhalla’s passing marks the end of an era. A legend in every sense, his legacy lies in the laughter he created, the truths he highlighted through satire, and the generations he inspired, on screen, in classrooms, and across every stage he stood on.
