‘Welcome’ Actor And Comedian Mushtaq Khan Passes Away After Battling Cancer

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Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, known for his memorable supporting and comic roles in Hindi cinema, passed away in Mumbai on September 24, 2026. He passed away at Nanavati Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment after his health deteriorated. His business partner Shivam confirmed that he had died at around 7 pm. He had been battling cancer, which had reportedly relapsed shortly before his hospitalisation.

Mushtaq Khan Dies After Cancer Battle

Photo Credit: Instagram@iifa/AI-generated

According to his business partner, Mushtaq Khan had previously been diagnosed with lung cancer and had recovered before the disease returned recently. He was admitted to Nanavati Hospital and was reportedly in critical condition. Media reports have described his illness as liver cancer, while his business partner told Hindustan Times that he had earlier been diagnosed with lung cancer.

From Mahesh Bhatt Films To 'Welcome'

Khan began working in Hindi cinema in the 1980s and became a familiar face through supporting roles across films, television and theatre. His early association with filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt proved significant. After getting an opportunity to meet Bhatt, he appeared in 'Kabzaa' in 1988 and subsequently worked with the filmmaker on films including 'Aashiqui', 'Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin', 'Sadak', 'Sir' and 'Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke'. His filmography later included 'Krantiveer', 'Raja', 'Hera Pheri', 'Jodi No. 1', 'Mujhse Shaadi Karogi', 'Wanted', 'Oh My God!', 'Stree' and several other films.

The Role Audiences Remembered

For many viewers, Khan's most recognisable performance came in 'Welcome' (2007), where he played Ballu, a member of Uday Shetty's gang. His comic timing and the character's distinctive scenes made him a memorable part of the ensemble cast.

He was also known for playing Gul Khan in the 'Gadar' franchise, appearing in 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha' and returning for 'Gadar 2'. His later credits included 'Badhaai Do' and 'Stree 2', showing that he remained active in Hindi cinema across generations.

A Career Across Film And Television

Beyond films, Khan worked extensively in television, with credits including 'Wagle Ki Duniya', 'Adalat' and 'Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi'. His career was built largely around character and supporting roles, allowing him to move between comedy, drama and family-oriented stories.

His final years also included a widely reported 2024 kidnapping incident, when he was allegedly abducted after being lured to Uttar Pradesh on the pretext of attending an event. He subsequently escaped and filed a police complaint.

Remembering Mushtaq Khan

Mushtaq Khan's career stretched across decades and hundreds of screen appearances. While he was rarely the central figure in a film, his distinctive comic performances and supporting characters made him recognisable to generations of Hindi film audiences. His death brings an end to the journey of an actor whose work often stood out even within large ensemble casts.