Veteran Punjabi Comedian Jaswinder Bhalla Passes Away at 65
A Nation Mourns a Comic Legend
Punjabi cinema lost one of its most beloved icons on August 22, 2025, as veteran actor and comedian Jaswinder Bhalla passed away at the age of 65. The celebrated entertainer died at Fortis Hospital in Mohali following a brief illness, confirmed by close friend and fellow performer Bal Mukand Sharma. His last rites are scheduled to be held in Mohali on August 23.
Bhalla was admitted to the hospital two days earlier after falling seriously ill. He had reportedly been under the weather for some time before suffering a brain stroke on Wednesday evening.
A Life of Laughter: Jaswinder Bhalla’s Legacy
Jaswinder Bhalla’s journey began in the academic halls of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, where he completed his Master of Science and later became Head of the Department of Extension Education. Even as an academic, Bhalla’s passion for performance led him to fame through the widely loved Punjabi audio comedy series ‘Chhankata’, known for its sharp satire and cultural wit.
His transition to film brought him national recognition. Bhalla starred in some of Punjabi cinema’s biggest blockbusters, including Carry On Jatta, Jatt & Juliet 2, Jatt Airways, and Mahaul Theek Hai. His portrayal of Advocate Dhillon in Carry On Jatta (2012) remains one of Punjabi cinema’s most iconic comedic roles, with the dialogue “Advocate Dhillon ne kala coat aiwi ni paya” etched into fans’ memories.
He also collaborated with late comedian Jaspal Bhatti, particularly in the cult satire Mahaul Theek Hai (1999).
Bhalla’s final films, including Carry On Jatta 3 and Shinda Shinda No Papa, continued to showcase his comic mastery. His son, Pukhraj Bhalla, is also a well-known actor in Punjabi films.
Jaswinder Bhalla’s Cause of Death
According to reports, Bhalla suffered a brain stroke on August 20, prompting his emergency admission to Fortis Hospital. Despite medical efforts, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to his death two days later. He had been reportedly experiencing health issues in recent months.
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Tributes Pour In for the Actor
The news of Bhalla’s passing sparked widespread grief. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann posted, “The sudden departure of Jaswinder Bhalla Ji is extremely sorrowful. The heart is saddened by the silence of the jingle of Chhankata.”
Punjab Congress chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring called him “a proud Punjabi voice” and extended condolences to his family.
Jaswinder Bhalla’s passing marks the end of an era in Punjabi comedy. His unmatched blend of humor, intellect, and cultural commentary made him a treasured figure whose influence will echo for generations.
