Satish Shah, also fondly remembered as Indravadhan Sarabhai of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, was no ordinary comedian. He was a comedy giant with zero haters. His priceless humour, impeccable comic timing and warm presence, coupled with a mischievous smile, have comforted millions of fans for decades. And we believe it will continue to do so through his immortal performances.
Shah passed away on Saturday, 25th October 2025, at the age of 74 due to kidney failure. According to the latest reports, Shah’s mortal remains were kept for antim darshan at his Bandra residence from 10 am to 11 am.
Many co-stars, actors and fans who have respected Shah’s work have offered condolences to his family on social media. While most of us can’t literally be present for the Shah’s loved ones, as fans, remembering him through his brilliant characters is something we can do.
Five Of The Shah’s Works That Have Immortalised The Satire King For GoodFew could blend wit, warmth and absurdity quite like Shah—be it by poking fun at high society or stealing scenes with a single smirk. His performances have become a masterclass in effortless humour for the newbies. Here are five gems that ensure the laughter he gave never fades.
1. Sarabhai vs Sarabhai (2004-2017)
© Hats Off Productions
As Indravadan Sarabhai, Shah redefined the Indian sitcom father figure—part mischief, part brilliance and wholly hilarious. His impeccable timing, devilish sarcasm and endearing banter with Maya and Rosesh made every episode feel like home.
Even years later, “Indu” remains the gold standard for Indian TV comedy.
2. Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro (1983)
© National Film Development Corporation of India
A cult classic that turned political satire into pure chaos, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro showcased Shah’s genius as the corrupt but comically clueless Municipal Commissioner D’Mello.
His deadpan delivery during the legendary Mahabharat scene is etched in Indian film history—proof that few could juggle absurdity and brilliance like him.
3. Yeh Jo Zindagi Hai (1984)
© Oberoi Films
Before multi-role sketch comedy became a trend, Shah did it all—literally. Playing a different character in every episode, he turned everyday quirks of Indian life into timeless laughter.
His versatility on Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi remains unmatched, reminding us that great comedy doesn’t need noise, just nuance.
4. Filmi Chakkar (1996)
© ZeeTV
As the eccentric, filmy Mahesh, Shah brought his signature blend of satire and silliness to Filmi Chakkar, a show that celebrated India’s obsession with cinema.
His chemistry with Ratna Pathak Shah once again proved that no one captured middle-class eccentricities with as much charm and truth as he did.
5. Main Hoon Na (2004)
© Red Chillies Entertainment
Even in a Shah Rukh Khan-led blockbuster, Shah’s Professor Rasai stole the show with his unstoppable sneezing fits. What could have been a simple caricature became a comic masterstroke, reminding audiences how easily he turned physical comedy into memorable moments.
Satish Shah’s last big screen appearance was in Sajid Khan’s 2014 comedy film Humshakals and while he acknowledged in his 2023 interview with CNN-News18 that he has stopped performing in public now, the comedy king of satire also mentioned that he is in “no hurry to die”.
He indeed has immortalised every character he played, every joke he cracked.