Jaswinder Bhalla, one of Punjabi cinema’s most beloved comedians, died Friday at the age of 65.
He was admitted to Fortis Hospital and passed away early in the morning, hospital officials said. His funeral will be held Saturday at Balongi crematorium in Mohali.
Bhalla was celebrated for his sharp comic timing and memorable characters that spanned nearly three decades of Punjabi cinema. He first made a name for himself through stage shows and comedy albums in the 1980s and 1990s before moving to films.
His acting debut included roles in “Dulha Bhatti” and Jaspal Bhatti’s Hindi satire “Mahaul Theek Hai” (1999). Over time, he became a fixture in Punjabi blockbusters such as “Jatt & Juliet,” “Sardarji,” and the “Carry On Jatta” franchise, where his portrayal of Advocate Dhillon made him a household name.
Known for catchphrases and witty one-liners, Bhalla’s performances elevated even the smallest roles, cementing his reputation as a pioneer of Punjabi comedy.
Bhalla is survived by his wife, Paramdeep, a fine arts teacher in Chandigarh, and their son, Pukhraj Bhalla, an actor who began his career in music videos and later appeared in films. Father and son shared the screen in the 2013 film “Stupid 7.”
Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues who credited Bhalla with bringing Punjabi cinema to new heights through humor and heart. His work, admirers said, will continue to inspire future generations.
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