Pradeep Rawat's Final Rites: Aamir Khan, Ashutosh Gowariker and Raza Murad Pay Emotional Tribute

Indian cinema has lost one of its finest character actors. Veteran actor Pradeep Rawat, who entertained audiences for nearly four decades across films and television, passed away at the age of 74 after a prolonged battle with cancer.

Having acted in nearly 150 films, Rawat was best known for playing the terrifying villain in Aamir Khan's blockbuster Ghajini. He also left a lasting impression with his performances in Sarfarosh and as Ashwatthama in B.R. Chopra's iconic television series Mahabharat.

A Tearful Final Goodbye

Pradeep Rawat's last rites were held in Mumbai on Wednesday, where several members of the film and television industry gathered to pay their final respects. His funeral vehicle was beautifully decorated with flowers and carried a large portrait of the late actor, as emotional videos and pictures from the ceremony flooded social media.

Aamir Khan and Ashutosh Gowariker Pay Tribute

Actor Aamir Khan arrived to bid farewell to his longtime co-star, with whom he had worked in Lagaan and Ghajini. He appeared visibly emotional during the funeral. Filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker also attended the last rites and paid his respects.

Aamir Khan Productions Shares Emotional Tribute

Following Rawat's demise, Aamir Khan Productions shared a heartfelt social media post, describing him as a simple, large-hearted man whose kindness and honesty touched everyone who knew him.

The post further read, "His performances as Deva in 'Lagaan' and Ghajini in 'Ghajini' left an unforgettable mark on millions of hearts. The entire Lagaan family will miss him dearly. Pradeep ji, you will always be remembered."

Raza Murad: Bollywood Never Gave Him His Due

Veteran actor Raza Murad became emotional while remembering his colleague. Speaking to the media, he said that despite being an exceptionally talented performer, Pradeep Rawat never received the recognition he truly deserved in Hindi cinema. According to Murad, the South Indian film industry valued his talent more and offered him powerful roles that showcased his abilities.

Friends Bid an Emotional Farewell

Actor Akhilendra Mishra was seen in tears as he paid his last respects to his close friend. Television actress Ruhanika Dhawan also attended the funeral and consoled the grieving family. Actor-director Amin Hajee arrived with his family to offer condolences.

Pradeep Rawat began his acting journey in theatre before making his Bollywood debut with Meri Jung in 1985. He later appeared in films such as Agneepath, Koyla, Sarfarosh and Major Saab. He earned immense popularity for his villainous role in Ghajini, his performance as Deva Singh Sodhi in Lagaan, and as Ashwatthama in Mahabharat. Beyond Hindi cinema, he also built a successful career in Telugu, Tamil, Kannada and Malayalam films. Movies like Sye, Stalin, Veeram, Sarrainodu and Nene Raju Nene Mantri further established him as one of Indian cinema's most impactful character actors.