Zakir Hussain To Rohit Bal: Stars We Lost In 2024
From a celebrated fashion designer to legendary musicians, here are the stars we lost in 2024.

2024 was a year filled with joyous celebrity weddings, notable births, and remarkable milestones. Amid these celebrations, we also bid farewell to several iconic figures who left an indelible mark on Indian fashion, music and entertainment. Here are the stars and legends we lost in 2024.
Zakir Hussain
December brought sad news for music lovers across the globe when Padma Vibhushan tabla maestro Zakir Hussain passed away at the age of 73 due to complications arising from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on Dec. 16.
Hussain, one of the world’s most accomplished percussionists and one of India’s most renowned artists, received four Grammy Awards during his illustrious career spanning six decades, including three at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this year.
Rohit Bal

(Source: Ananya Panday/Instagram)
Renowned Indian fashion designer Rohit Bal, passed away on Nov. 1, 2024, in Delhi at the age of 63, following a heart attack. Bal, who was celebrated for his exceptional designs for both men and women, began his illustrious career in 1986 by co-founding Orchid Oversea Pvt. Ltd with his brother.
Bal's final fashion show on Oct. 14, 2024, featured 'Kaaynaat: A Bloom in the Universe,' which was a tribute to nature and his life's work.
Ustad Rashid Khan

(Source: Wikipedia)
Legendary classical playback singer and Padma Bhushan awardee, Ustad Rashid Khan, passed away in Kolkata on Jan. 9, 2024, at 55, after battling prostate cancer. Known for his soulful renditions, he left an enduring legacy in Hindustani classical music. His memorable contributions for the Hindi film industry include songs like Aaoge Jab Tum, from Jab We Met.
Ameen Sayani

(Source: Wikipedia)
India lost its favourite 'Binaca Geetmala' host Ameen Sayani on Feb. 20, 2024. The legendary radio personality Sayani, famous for his signature voice and rendition, passed away in Mumbai after suffering a heart attack at the age of 91.
Pankaj Udhas

(Source: Pankaj Udhas/ Instagram)
The ghazal maestro Pankaj Udhas, who mesmerised audiences with songs like Chitthi Aayi Hai from Naam, Chaandi Jaisa Rang Hai from Ek Hi Maqsad, Aaj Phir Tumpe from Dayavan, among others, passed away on Feb. 26, 2024. The singer died in Mumbai at 72 due to a prolonged illness.
Rituraj Singh

(Source: Rituraj Singh/ Instagram)
Rituraj Singh, known for his impactful performances in films and television shows, passed away on Feb. 19, 2024, in Mumbai due to cardiac arrest, at the age of 59. A versatile actor, he starred in popular TV shows like Hitler Didi, Shapath, Aahat, Adaalat, and Diya Aur Baati Hum. On the big screen, he featured in notable films such as Satyameva Jayate 2, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, Yaariyan 2, and Jersey.
Suhani Bhatnagar

(Source: Suhani Bhatnagar/ Instagram)
Suhani Bhatnagar, known for her portrayal of young Babita Phogat in the 2016 blockbuster film Dangal, passed away Feb.16, 2024 in Delhi. The 19-year-old was admitted to the ICU on Feb. 7 and died on Feb. 16 after medical complications.
Atul Parchure

(Source: Atul Parchure/ Instagram)
Actor Atul Parchure, celebrated for his comedic talent, passed away on Oct. 14, 2024, in Mumbai at the age of 57. He left a lasting impression with memorable roles in films such as Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani, Tumsa Nahin Dekha, Phir Hera Pheri, Khatta Meetha, Bbuddah… Hoga Terra Baap, Judwaa 2, and Liger.
Vikas Sethi

(Source: Wikipedia)
A well known face for supporting roles in Bollywood and television in the 2000s, Vikas Sethi passed away in his sleep on Sept. 8, 2024 in Nashik at the age of 48. Popular as Roby from Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, Sethi had also worked in popular shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahiin To Hoga, Kasautii Zindagi Kay and Sasural Simar Ka.