Mumbai: Veteran actor Pradeep Rawat, best known for his memorable performances in Ghajini, Lagaan, Sarfarosh and as Ashwatthama in B.R. Chopra’s iconic television series Mahabharat, has died at the age of 74 after a prolonged battle with cancer. The actor breathed his last on Tuesday evening while undergoing treatment at a hospital near Mumbai, according to his family and manager.
Rawat was widely recognised for his powerful villainous roles across Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Malayalam and Bhojpuri cinema, earning a reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most dependable character actors.
Veteran actor dies after cancer battle
According to sources, Pradeep Rawat had initially been admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai before being shifted to a specialised cancer hospital in Bhiwandi around 10 days ago as his condition deteriorated.
His manager, Siddharth Tiwari, confirmed that Rawat passed away on Tuesday evening after his platelet count dropped sharply. The actor had reportedly battled blood cancer for nearly five years before suffering a relapse earlier this year.
Career spanning over four decades
Born on January 21, 1952, in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Pradeep Rawat began his acting journey with television before moving into films.
He first gained nationwide recognition for portraying Ashwatthama in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat. His commanding screen presence later made him one of the industry’s most sought-after actors for antagonist roles.
Memorable roles in Ghajini and Lagaan
Rawat became a household name after playing the ruthless villain Ghajini in the Tamil blockbuster starring Suriya, a role he reprised in the Hindi remake opposite Aamir Khan.
He also delivered memorable performances in films such as Lagaan, Sarfarosh, Sye, China Town, Hero 420 and several regional-language blockbusters, establishing himself as a versatile performer across multiple film industries.
Tributes pour in
Actor Yashpal Sharma, who worked with Rawat in Lagaan, paid tribute on social media, remembering him as a warm colleague and a gifted performer.
Several members of the film fraternity expressed grief over his passing, describing Rawat as an actor whose powerful performances left a lasting impression on audiences despite often portraying negative characters.
Funeral to be held in Mumbai
According to his manager, Rawat’s last rites are expected to take place in Mumbai on Wednesday.
He is survived by his wife and children, who have requested privacy as the family mourns the loss.
Legacy in Indian cinema
Over a career spanning more than four decades, Pradeep Rawat acted in hundreds of films across several Indian languages.
Known for bringing intensity and conviction to every role, he became one of the most recognisable screen villains of his generation while also earning appreciation for his disciplined professionalism and dedication to cinema.
Conclusion
The passing of Pradeep Rawat marks the end of an illustrious career that spanned television and cinema across multiple Indian languages. Remembered for unforgettable performances in Ghajini, Lagaan and Mahabharat, the veteran actor leaves behind a rich cinematic legacy that continues to inspire audiences and fellow actors alike.