The Indian film and television actor, Kushal Punjabi, who started his career as a dancer and model was also known as an avid fitness enthusiast. Kushal who has been a part of popular movies like ‘Lakshya’, ‘Kaal’ and ‘Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal’ among others also appeared in many popular TV series like ‘Kasam Se’, ‘Sshh Koi Hain’, ‘CID’, ‘Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat’ etc. The 37-year-old and a father of a three-year-old boy, Kushal, however, was sadly, found dead at his Pali Hill residence in Mumbai.
Mumbai: Television actor Kushal Punjabi found hanging at his Pali Hill residence. Police has found a suicide note at his residence. Accidental Death Report (ADR) filed, further investigation underway
— ANI (@ANI) December 27, 2019
According to News18, the actor who also participated in reality TV shows including ‘Fear Factor’, ‘Zor Ka Jhatka’ and ‘Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa’ committed suicide by hanging himself last night.
The incident reportedly happened at 11.10 pm at his Mumbai residence. The police have also recovered a one and a half-page suicide note from his house that states that no one is to be held responsible for his death.
In the note, Kushal has also mentioned about the distribution of his property among his family, reported DNA. An Accidental Death Report (ADR) has been filed and further investigation is underway.
His friend Karanvir Bohra was among the firsts who broke the news of his death.
Speaking to TOI, actor Chetan Hansraj who has known Kushal for more than a decade stated that he had committed suicide. “Yes, it is a suicide. He was going through a separation from his wife and he was also down with sickness. I still can’t believe that Kushal is no more with us. I spoke to him a couple of days ago and he discussed with me that he was disturbed. I tried telling him that things happen in life and he should just fight back. But I never imagined that he will take such a step. It is heartbreaking.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/B6kZDAAA1pt/
He also added that Kushal was a positive, fun-loving guy. “He always laughed and had a smiling face. He was a fighter and always inspired people around him to be fit. We have known each other for the last 20 years and we have grown up together. He was more like a brother to me. The loss is irreparable,” added Chetan. Kushal’s last rites will be held today in Mumbai.
The actor’s death has sent shockwaves to the entire television fraternity. People have been sharing their heartfelt condolences on his untimely death.
In absolute shock and disbelief that #KushalPunjabi has passed away! Can’t even begin to imagine what he must be going through! I pray for you to be in a better place, rest in peace my friend! 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/BBPCtsgLH2
— Delnaazz Irani (@IamDelnazzIrani) December 27, 2019
This is really shocking, he was a gentleman and I have always seen him smiling. No way for a young healthy man to go like this. Deepest condolences to the family, May the almighty give them strength and patience to bear this irreplaceable loss 🙏#KushalPunjabi #ripkushalpunjabi https://t.co/mQrtkmBNny
— Naved Jafri (@NavedJafri_BOO) December 27, 2019
https://twitter.com/Payal_Rohatgi/status/1210441664738709504
Rest in peace #kushalpunjabi, I can only imagine the pain you must have been in to take such a drastic step. Please reach out if you are hurting, mental health isn't a battle that needs to be fought alone. There's no shame in depression. It can be treated with love & care.
— MissMalini (@MissMalini) December 27, 2019
Gone too soon #KushalPunjabi. Of whatever I knew from our limited interactions, I would remember you as someone nice and forthcoming. Rest in peace brother.
— Arfi Lamba (@arfilamba) December 27, 2019
I just cannot come to the terms that Kushal is no more. Always ready to face challenges of all kinds and such an adorable father. He was a friend but more like a younger brother to me. RIP #KushalPunjabi pic.twitter.com/GZxdgp5t3A
— Baba Sehgal (@OnlyBabaSehgal) December 27, 2019
RIP #KushalPunjabi, Mental Health is so important these days!!
— Biswatosh Sinha (@biswatosh) December 27, 2019
Beyond all the Lakshyas & Kaals, for me #KushalPunjabi will always be the "Keh du tumhe" Rockstar from the 90s.
RIP buddy.
Only if India was spending 1% fund/efforts, equivalent to all the funds/efforts for Women Welfare, on the serious problem of Men Suicides !!
— Pankaj (@pankajcgupta) December 27, 2019
Deeply saddened by the untimely death of #KushalPunjabi. I wish more n more ppl reach out to friends n family n seek help when they r battling depression. I feel sorry for his lovely 3 year old son.
— Tuhin A. Sinha (@tuhins) December 27, 2019
https://twitter.com/Aishu__19/status/1210443128164904960
Kushal’s sudden demise reflects the grave reality of depression as several people close to him have indicated that depression was the reason behind his untimely death. It reiterates the fact that mental illness is a grave concern and must be dealt with immediately. Harming oneself is never the answer. Do reach out to friends, loved ones and even acquaintances who are undergoing depression. You never know, you may have saved a life.
We hope he is in a better place now. RIP Kushal, you will be missed!