Born in Delhi into a Punjabi family, Mukul Dev was more than just an actor—he was a storyteller with a unique screen presence. The younger brother of actor Rahul Dev, Mukul hailed from a family that deeply valued discipline and service, with his father, Hari Dev Kaushal, serving as an Assistant Commissioner of Police. Despite training as a pilot at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics in Madhya Pradesh, Mukul’s true calling was in front of the camera.
He made his television debut in 1996 with the serial Mumkin, but it was his performance in the Bollywood thriller Dastak the same year that marked his film debut. Playing the role of ACP Rohit Malhotra opposite Sushmita Sen, Mukul quickly garnered attention for his screen charisma and emotive depth. What followed was an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades across film industries and genres.
Mukul Dev’s filmography is impressively diverse. From intense roles in thrillers like Qila (1998) and Wajood (1998), to comic timing in Yamla Pagla Deewana (2011) and Son of Sardaar (2012), he showcased his ability to mold himself into any character with ease. His regional cinema contributions, especially in Punjabi films like Saka – The Martyrs of Nankana Sahib and Shareek, earned him a devoted fan base beyond Bollywood.
Apart from films, Mukul also made a mark on Indian television. He hosted the first season of Fear Factor India in 2006, further proving his comfort and charisma on-screen. In recent years, he lent his voice to Hindi dubs of popular international films, including Marvel blockbusters like Captain Marvel and Black Panther, showcasing his versatility beyond acting.
Off-screen, Mukul was known to be grounded and deeply committed to his family. He is survived by his wife, Shilpa Dev, and their daughter Siya. Despite belonging to a family of celebrities, Mukul always preferred to let his work speak for itself, rarely engaging in the trappings of stardom.
His sudden demise is not only a personal loss to his family and colleagues but also a moment of reflection for the Indian entertainment industry. Mukul Dev embodied the rare mix of talent, humility, and dedication—attributes that endeared him to fans and co-stars alike.
As tributes pour in from across the country, one thing is clear: Mukul Dev’s contributions will not be forgotten. His roles may have varied, but his commitment to his craft remained unwavering. Today, the industry bids farewell to a star who lit up screens with quiet brilliance—and whose absence will be deeply felt.
