Chandigarh, August 22 (HS):

Renowned Punjabi film comedian Jaswinder Bhalla passed away on Friday morning at the age of 65 in Mohali, near Chandigarh. He had been undergoing treatment for illness at Fortis Hospital, where he breathed his last. His cremation will be held in Mohali on August 23.

Bhalla, a household name in Punjabi cinema and comedy, began his career with Doordarshan’s weekly television programs in the late 1980s. In 1988, he made his first TV appearance as the character Chacha Chatra, a role that brought him instant recognition. The following year, he joined Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, as a lecturer—balancing his academic career with theatre and stage performances.

Over the decades, Jaswinder Bhalla emerged as one of Punjabi cinema’s most celebrated comedians, often enjoying greater popularity than lead actors. He retired from government service in 2020 but remained one of the most sought-after actors in the industry. From Jatt & Juliet and Carry On Jatta to Golak Bugni Bank Te Batua, Badhaiyaan Ji Badhaiyaan, and Mahi Mera Nikka Jeha, his filmography is filled with crowd-pulling blockbusters. His final release was the 2024 film Shinda Shinda No Papa. Even at the time of his passing, he was actively involved in multiple film projects.

Paying tribute, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said Bhalla’s death marks “the end of an era in Punjabi cinema.” Actor Gippy Grewal, who shared the screen with Bhalla in numerous films, expressed grief by saying he was at a loss for words. Across Punjab, fans and film lovers are mourning the loss of a comedian who brought laughter into countless homes.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar