The unexpected death of actor Mukul Dev has left the entertainment industry in shock, raising widespread speculations about the cause of his passing. His elder brother has spoken about Mukul's condition in his final days and addressed those who labeled him as 'unfit.' In a heartfelt interview with a news portal, Rahul Dev provided insight into the reasons behind Mukul's untimely demise at the age of 54 on the night of May 23.
Lost interest in Life
Rahul pointed out unhealthy eating habits as the root cause of the tragedy, as he revealed that Mukul spent over 8 days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) before passing. Rahul says Mukul completely neglected personal health and had lost the will to live. During his last days, he stopped consuming food altogether, which reflected a complete loss of interest in life.
According to Rahul, he was struggling emotionally with the loss of his parents, and because of his divorce, which affected him negatively. Mukul consistently turned down projects, despite being offered work; his spark seemed to have dimmed.
"He was in the ICU for eight and a half days. Medically, it was a result of poor eating habits. In the last four-five days, he had stopped eating altogether. Of course, he felt lonely, and he had lost interest in life. Usko zindagi jeene ka jazba nahi tha.." Rahul said.
Emotional Struggles and Silent Battles
Rahul revealed that Mukul shifted to Delhi in 2019 to take care of their ailing father, who passed away the same year. Soon after, in 2023, their mother also passed away, which left a deep scar in Mukul’s heart. Since Mukul was divorced and his daughter didn’t live with him, her absence also had a significant impact on him.
Mukul began retreating into himself
Rahul described how Mukul began retreating into himself, eventually turning to writing. Writing became a space of isolation for Mukul, and he gradually got isolated from society, making him feel lonely. Though he found temporary solace in writing, he still craved for human connection. Living alone, missing his daughter, the negativity only grew more, and soon the monsters of loneliness got him.
Cut off from professional life
Despite being physically healthy enough to run half marathons, Mukul was completely cut off from the acting world, turning down every project he was offered. Brother Rahul reportedly encouraged Mukul to return to his career, believing that he still had much to offer to the entertainment industry with his talent and intelligence.
Rahul addressed the people who called him ‘unfit’
While addressing the people who called Mukul ‘unfit’, Rahul questioned them, asking why they didn’t keep in touch or visit him during his final days, “He felt isolated. Who really stayed in touch with him between 2019 and 2024? Did they visit him when he was in hospital or attend his prayer meet? He had two upcoming releases and had recently shot in England forSon of Sardaar. No one will cast you if you’re not fit.”
Rahul also admitted that Mukul was more of an outgoing and charming personality in their youth, while he was quite conservative. Rahul says, it's ironic that such an outgoing and extroverted person was forced to feel lonely, as he added, “And the irony is, someone so naturally social ended up so alone. He never remarried or tried again.”
Remembering Mukul Dev
Mukul Dev was more than just a familiar face on screen; he was a talented actor known for his calm presence and peaceful performances. Known for his intense roles in Dhoka to popular appearances in Yamla Pagla Deewana and Son of Sardaar, leaving a lasting mark in both film and television.
His sudden demise has left fans heartbroken, but his legacy continues to live on through his memorable work.