The new year began on a heartbreaking note for television actor Arjun Bijlani and his family. What was meant to be a quiet holiday break in Dubai turned into a moment of deep sorrow after his father-in-law Rakesh Chandra Swami passed away suddenly on January 1. The loss has left the entire family shaken and grieving. According to close sources Rakesh Chandra Swami suffered a sudden stroke and was immediately rushed to the hospital. He was admitted to the ICU and placed on ventilator support. Despite doctors’ efforts he could not be saved and breathed his last at the age of 73. The news came as a massive shock especially since he had been in good health just hours earlier. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Telly Reporter (@tellyreporter) What exactly happened that night? As per reports the incident took place just before dinner. Rakesh Chandra Swami was preparing for his meal when he suddenly complained of discomfort and collapsed. He was rushed to Bellevue Hospital where doctors confirmed he had suffered a major stroke. Family members revealed that everything happened very suddenly leaving them numb and unprepared for the loss. At the time of the incident Arjun Bijlani and his wife Neha were in Dubai celebrating the New Year with their son. The couple had even shared plans earlier about keeping things simple and spending quiet family time together. However upon receiving the distressing news they immediately cut short their trip and flew back to Mumbai to be with the family. A bond beyond words Those close to the family revealed that Arjun shared a deep and special bond with his father-in-law. Having lost his own father at a young age Rakesh Chandra Swami had become a strong emotional pillar in his life. A video from the last rites surfaced online showing Arjun and his brother-in-law performing the final rituals a moment that deeply moved fans. A quiet goodbye after hopeful beginnings Just days before the tragedy Arjun had spoken to the media about his plans for the new year. He had mentioned wanting a calm beginning to 2026 focusing on family and personal growth rather than big celebrations. Fate however had other plans. Neither Arjun nor Neha has released an official statement yet choosing to grieve privately. Fans and colleagues from the television industry have flooded social media with messages of condolence standing in solidarity with the family during this painful time. The sudden loss has cast a shadow over what was meant to be a fresh start reminding everyone how fragile life truly is.