Veteran actor Gufi Paintal, best known for playing 'Shakuni mama' in the epic TV serial "Mahabharat", died on Monday at a hospital here due to age-related issues, his family informed. He was 79 years old.
The veteran actor was admitted at a hospital in suburban Andheri.
"Regrettably, his nephew Hiten Paintal shared the sad news, stating, 'Unfortunately, he has passed away. He peacefully left us at the hospital around 9 am as his heart ceased to beat. He departed in his sleep, finding serenity.'
Earlier, Hiten had informed that his uncle had been facing health issues associated with age. 'He had been grappling with high blood pressure and heart problems. His health had been deteriorating for some time now. Eventually, the situation worsened, and we admitted him to the hospital for observation. He had been hospitalized for approximately seven to eight days. Initially, his condition was critical, but he has stabilized as of now,' he had expressed.
Paintal's acting career boasts notable contributions to 1980s Hindi films like 'Suhaag' and 'Dillagi,' along with prominent appearances in television shows such as 'CID' and 'Hello Inspector.' Nevertheless, it was his remarkable portrayal of the cunning uncle as Shakuni mama in BR Chopra's 'Mahabharat' that etched his name into the hearts of millions."