, who passed away at the age of 54. Known for his work across television and films, Mukul made his acting debut in Mahesh Bhatt’s 1996 film Dastak. However, few know that his actual first project was a film that never saw the light of day.

Before Dastak, Mukul had shot for a movie titled Naam Kya Hai, which was produced by Amitabh Bachchan’s company ABCL. Unfortunately, the film was shelved and never released in theatres.

In a past interview with Planet Bollywood, Mukul had opened up about the lost opportunity. “Yes, the film was complete but it could never get a release for itself. ABCL was going through a financial crisis and a couple of other films that were produced by the company during that time did not release."

In another older conversation with Lehren TV, he fondly remembered the signing amount he received for Naam Kya Hai, calling it his first income as an actor. “My first income was Rs 75,000 and they were given by Jaya Bachchan for the ABCL film. When she met me she had said, ‘I want to sign you. We are making three films and you are doing at least one film with us among the three films that we are producing. I don’t know which of these films you will do but you will do a film with us.’"

Mukul was surprised and initially doubtful when he received the call from Jaya Bachchan herself. “I even told her on phone, ‘Who is this? Why are you joking with me?’ Later when I realised it is her, I went to meet her."

Mukul had been unwell for the past few days and was admitted to the ICU. Despite all efforts, he could not recover. He is survived by his brother, actor Rahul Dev.

Following his passing, Rahul Dev shared the sad news on X (formerly Twitter). “We are deeply saddened to inform you that our brother Mukul Dev passed away peacefully last night in New Delhi. He is survived by his daughter, Sia Dev, and will be dearly missed by his siblings Rashmi Kaushal, Rahul Dev, and his nephew Sidhant Dev."

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News movies » bollywood Mukul Dev Was Shocked When Amitabh, Jaya Bachchan Signed Him For Debut: 'Why Are You Joking?'