Mumbai: Television actor Anuj Thakur, known for his appearances in shows such as Dhoom Machao Dhoom, Bandhan Saath Janmon Ka, Beend Banoonga Ghodi Chadhunga and Mahisagar, has died at the age of 33 after reportedly suffering a seizure during sleep on October 27.
The news of his demise was confirmed by his friend and longtime collaborator Rupesh Sonar, who paid tribute to the actor through an Instagram post on October 30.
According to Rupesh, who met Anuj’s family following his death, the actor suffered a seizure while sleeping and passed away during the episode. His sudden demise has left friends and colleagues from the television industry shocked.
Rupesh Sonar pays emotional tribute
Sharing his grief on Instagram, Rupesh remembered Anuj as more than just a friend, describing him as a younger brother. He also recalled the projects they had planned to work on together and the journey they had shared over the years.
“Still can’t believe that you are no longer with us. You were not just a friend but like a little brother to me. We had so many projects planned together, and I still remember witnessing your struggles during your initial days and seeing your journey. Life is truly unpredictable. It’s heartbreaking to accept that you are gone so soon. This news feels unreal. You will always be remembered, brother. Rest in peace,” Rupesh wrote.
The emotional tribute reflected their longstanding association and the personal bond they had developed through their professional collaboration.
Actor met his friend just 10 days before death
Rupesh revealed that he had met Anuj just 10 days before his death and had found it difficult to believe the news when he first heard about the incident.
Speaking to The Times of India, Rupesh said he was shocked to learn that his friend had gone to sleep and never woken up.
He initially spoke to Anuj’s brother but found that the family was too distressed to discuss the circumstances in detail. He subsequently visited the family, including Anuj’s mother and brother, on Saturday.
During the meeting, the family informed him that Anuj had suffered a seizure during sleep and passed away.
Rupesh said the suddenness of the incident had left him struggling to come to terms with the loss, particularly because he had seen the actor so recently.
Anuj was known for disciplined fitness routine
Rupesh also recalled Anuj’s disciplined daily routine, saying that the actor was an early riser who generally woke up at 4.30 am.
His mornings included fitness activities and jogging, which he followed regularly as part of his lifestyle.
However, on the morning of October 27, Anuj did not wake up as usual despite his alarm going off at 4.30 am.
According to Rupesh’s account of what the family told him, Anuj’s mother went to his room after noticing that he had not got up. She then discovered that he had passed away.
The incident came as a shock to those who knew him, especially given his regular fitness routine and the fact that he had met friends shortly before his death.
17-year association through television projects
Anuj and Rupesh had known each other for approximately 17 years. Their professional association began with the television show Bandhan Saath Janmon Ka in 2008.
Over the years, they continued working together on several television projects, including Beend Banoonga Ghodi Chadhunga.
Anuj also appeared in other television shows, including Dhoom Machao Dhoom and Mahisagar, earning recognition among viewers through his work in the television industry.
Rupesh recalled witnessing Anuj’s struggles during his early days and following his journey as an actor. Their friendship continued beyond their professional commitments, with the two remaining closely associated over the years.
The actor’s demise has brought an end to a journey that his friends believed still had several opportunities ahead. Rupesh also mentioned that they had discussed future projects together, making the loss particularly painful.
Anuj Thakur’s sudden death at the age of 33 has left his family, friends and colleagues mourning his untimely passing.