The funeral of legendary Punjabi actor Jaswinder Bhalla, fondly called Bhalla Saab, was held in Mohali on Saturday. Several political leaders and well-known personalities from the Punjabi film industry attended the ceremony to pay their last respects.
Emotional Farewell from Colleagues
The funeral of Jaswinder Bhalla, fondly remembered as Bhalla Saab, turned into a moment of shared grief for the entire Punjabi film industry. Stars like Gippy Grewal, Jimmy Shergill, and singer Jasbir Jassi gathered at the cremation ground to pay their last respects to the veteran actor who had made millions laugh with his impeccable comic timing and relatable characters. The atmosphere was heavy with emotions as colleagues and fans recalled his unmatched contribution to Punjabi cinema.
Remembering Bhalla, singer Jasbir Jassi told ANI, “It is a huge loss for the Punjabi industry.” His words reflected the sentiment of countless admirers who saw Bhalla not just as a performer, but as a cultural icon whose humour carried deep social messages.
Punjabi singer Mankirt Aulakh also expressed his sorrow and urged everyone to support the grieving family during this difficult period. Speaking outside the cremation ground, he said, “Everyone should stand with the bereaved family in this difficult time. He was the pride of our industry. His presence alone made films superhit.”
Neeru Bajwa’s Tribute
Earlier in the day, actress Neeru Bajwa, along with several colleagues, visited Bhalla’s residence to console his wife Parmdeep Bhalla and children, Pukhraj Bhalla and Ashpreet Kaur. Later, she took to Instagram to share her heartfelt tribute.
In her post, Neeru wrote: “Saddened to have woken up to this tragic news. Bhalla Saab was truly respected and admired, and his contributions will be remembered with great honour. Rest in peace, Sir, my condolences to the family.”
Her message echoed the collective grief of the Punjabi entertainment world, which has lost one of its most loved stalwarts.
Bhalla’s Legacy
Jaswinder Bhalla passed away on Friday morning at Fortis Hospital in Mohali after battling a prolonged illness. He was 65. Over the years, Bhalla carved a permanent place in the hearts of audiences with his flawless comic timing, natural expressions, and sharp satirical dialogues.
He was celebrated for redefining Punjabi screen comedy at a time when humour was often treated as just an add-on in films. With his unique style, Bhalla made comedy central to the storytelling process. His characters not only entertained but also reflected the everyday struggles, quirks, and humour of Punjabi life.
Iconic Roles and Popular Films
From the witty professor in Carry On Jatta to memorable roles in Gaddi Chaldi Hai Chhalla Maarke, Jind Jaan, and Band Baaje, Bhalla brought freshness to every role he played. His effortless ability to switch between situational comedy and satire made him one of the most versatile actors of his generation.
Fans often recalled how even in ensemble casts, his presence stood out. Many of his dialogues became part of popular culture, repeated fondly by audiences across generations.
Personal Life and Family
Bhalla is survived by his wife Parmdeep Bhalla, son Pukhraj Bhalla, and daughter Ashpreet Kaur. His son Pukhraj has also followed in his footsteps, making a mark in the Punjabi entertainment industry, carrying forward his father’s legacy. The family, while deeply grieving, has been surrounded by love and support from the Punjabi film fraternity and fans worldwide.
An Irreplaceable Loss
Bhalla’s passing marks the end of an era for Punjabi cinema. He wasn’t just a comedian but a cultural figure who elevated Punjabi humour with dignity and grace. His work continues to inspire young actors and comedians who see him as a pioneer who gave comedy a new identity on screen.
Also Read: Farewell to Laughter: Jaswinder Bhalla’s Demise Shocks Punjab
