Tue Jul 15 10:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
**Bollywood Veteran Dheeraj Kumar Passes Away at 79**
**Mumbai, [Date Today]** – Veteran Bollywood actor, producer, and director Dheeraj Kumar has died at the age of 79. Kumar passed away in a Mumbai hospital on Tuesday after battling acute pneumonia.
According to family members, Kumar was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and placed in the ICU on ventilator support after his condition worsened. Despite best efforts, he succumbed to the illness. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Kumar, who entered the entertainment industry in 1965, was a finalist in a talent show alongside industry luminaries such as Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna (who won the competition). He gained recognition for his performances in 21 Punjabi films between 1970 and 1984, and subsequently appeared in Bollywood films such as “Heera Panna,” “Raaton Ka Raja,” “Sargam,” and “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan.”
Beyond the silver screen, Kumar made significant contributions to television, producing and directing popular shows like “Om Namah Shivay,” “Kahan Gaye Woh Log,” “Adalat,” and “Sinhasan Battisi.” He also established his own production company, ‘Creative Eye.’
The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) expressed their condolences on X, stating that Kumar was a valued member since 1970 and that his contributions will be remembered. He had recently attended an event in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. Dheeraj Kumar is survived by [surviving family members]. Funeral services will be held privately.
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