Vijay Crishna, Shah Rukh Khan’s on-screen father in ‘Devdas,’ passes away at 81: Tributes pour in for theatre stalwart

Trigger warning: This article mentions death.

Veteran Indian actor Vijay Crishna, known for his impactful theatrical performances, passed away at the age of 81. The news of his loss has left the Indian theatre and film fraternity in mourning. Tributes from the industry, his friends, colleagues, and fans are being shared on the internet remembering him. His family is yet to share the cause of death.

Memorable roles in ‘Devdas’ and ‘Guzaarish’

Vijay Crishna was also popularly known for playing Shah Rukh Khan's father, Narayan, in the 2002 romance epic ‘Devdas,’ helmed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Many fans still remember him as the strict but dignified father in the film. Apart from that, he also appeared in another Sanjay Leela Bhansali project, ‘Guzaarish,’ starring Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.

Other than his Bollywood stint, he is widely recognized in the Indian theatrical space. He performed in the stage production of ‘Dance Like a Man,’ directed by Pamela Rooks and based on a play by Mahesh Dattani for over 25 years. The film version won the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in English.

Lillete Dubey’s heartfelt tribute

Actress and theatre artist Lillete Dubey took to her Instagram handle to write a touching note for the late artist. Sharing his picture, she wrote: “Heartbroken..our dearest Vijay Crishna .. part of our theatre family & ‘Dance like a Man’ for over 25 years .. has passed away..a man of many parts .. a brilliant actor, handsome,charming,bright with his dry tongue in cheek trademark humour, he was much loved & cherished by us all .. so many memories flood the heart & mind & overwhelm me ..RIP my Jairaj .. you will never be forgotten..May you entertain the angels as you did us all here ..love & prayers for his lovely wife Smita, girls Nyrika & Freyan & the whole family.” In the comments, Anupam Kher wrote, "That is so so sad. Om shanti!"

Apart from his presence in theatre, he was also an executive director in the Godrej family-run businesses and was associated with Godrej Industries for many years. He stepped down from the board in 2021 due to age. He was also known for his interest in environmental causes and social work.

The late veteran actor is survived by his wife, Smita Crishna, and their daughter, Nyrika Holkar.


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