Punjabi Comedy Legend Jaswinder Bhalla Dies at 65, Punjab CM Expresses Sorrow
Veteran actor Jaswinder Bhalla dies in Mohali after suffering a brain haemorrhage.
The Punjabi entertainment industry is reeling from the loss of veteran actor and comedian Jaswinder Bhalla, who passed away at the age of 65 on Friday morning at Fortis Hospital in Mohali, following a brain haemorrhage. Bhalla, celebrated for his unparalleled wit and iconic roles, breathed his last at 4:35 AM, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped Punjabi cinema.
According to a statement from Fortis Hospital, Bhalla was admitted on August 20 in critical condition due to an acute brain haemorrhage. Despite being under the care of the neurosurgery team and receiving ventilator and cardio-supportive treatment, he succumbed to the severity of his condition. His close friend, Bal Mukand Sharma, noted that Bhalla had been unwell for some time prior to his hospitalization.
Bhalla’s last rites are scheduled for Saturday, August 23, at noon at the Balongi cremation ground in Mohali, where family, friends, and industry colleagues are expected to gather to pay their respects.
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Known for his satirical comedy and impeccable timing, Bhalla became a household name through his roles in blockbuster Punjabi films such as Carry On Jatta, Jatt & Juliet 2, Mahaul Theek Hai, and Jatt Airways. His portrayal of Advocate Dhillon in the Carry On Jatta series, with memorable catchphrases, cemented his status as a cultural icon. His final on-screen appearance was in the 2024 film Shinda Shinda No Papa, alongside Gippy Grewal and Hina Khan.
The news of Bhalla’s passing prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, celebrities, and political leaders. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed his sorrow on X, writing, “The sudden departure of Jaswinder Bhalla Ji from this world is extremely sorrowful. Chacha Chatar will always reside in our hearts.” Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring called him “a proud Punjabi voice,” while Shiromani Akali Dal chief Sukhbir Singh Badal noted that Bhalla “ruled the hearts of the people of Punjab.”
Actor Gippy Grewal, who visited Bhalla’s residence in Mohali, described him as a “father, mentor, and family,” adding, “His legacy will live on through his work, and his impact on our lives will never be forgotten.” Actor Binnu Dhillon, a frequent collaborator, mourned the loss of “a dear friend and big brother,” while cricketer Shikhar Dhawan highlighted Bhalla’s contribution to bringing joy to millions.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Bhalla was an accomplished academic, having served as a professor and head of the Department of Extension Education at Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana until his retirement in 2020. His career began with the iconic Chhankata comedy series in 1988, which brought characters like Chacha Chatar Singh to life, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Bhalla is survived by his wife, Parmdeep Bhalla, a fine arts teacher, his son, Pukhraj Bhalla, an actor and singer in Punjabi cinema, and his daughter, Jasmine, who resides in Norway. His passing marks an irreparable loss to Punjabi culture and entertainment, but his timeless humour and vibrant characters will continue to inspire generations.
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