In Memoriam: A Tribute To Those We Lost In 2024

This year, the world bid farewell to an array of remarkable stars whose talents left an indelible mark across film industries. From iconic actors and singers to trailblazing filmmakers and designers, these luminaries enriched our lives through their artistry, passion, and dedication. As we reflect on their legacies, we remember them for their contributions to the world of entertainment and culture.

Remembering The Celebs We've Lost In 2024

Manmohan Singh

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away at 92 on December 26, AIIMS Delhi confirmed. He was being treated for age-related conditions and reportedly lost consciousness at home.

Zakir Hussain

Revered tabla artist Zakir Hussain passed away on December 15, after a battle with heart-related problems at the age of 73. Hussain received four Grammy Awards in his career, including three earlier this year. He also received the Padma Shri in 1988, the Padma Bhushan in 2002, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2023. His biography Zakir Hussain: A Life in Music by Nasreen Munni Kabir was published in 2018.

Ratan Tata

Ratan Tata, the chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away on October 9 at age 86. The Padma Vibhushan industrialist breathed his last at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital, according to reports.

Shyam Benegal

Shyam Benegal, a Padma Bhushan-awarded filmmaker, passed away on December 23, 2024, at a Mumbai hospital, reportedly due to chronic kidney disease. He is revered for his films such as Ankur, Sardari Begum, Nishant, Mandi, Welcome to Sajjanpur, etc, setting a cultural precedent for Indian cinema on the global stage.

Baba Siddique

Baba Ziauddin Siddique, a 66-year-old Indian politician and former Maharashtra minister, was tragically assassinated on October 12, 2024, in Mumbai’s Bandra locality. The incident occurred near his son, Zeeshan Siddique's office, in the Nirmal Nagar area. Reports indicate that three assailants shot him outside the premises of his MLA son's office.

 Maggie Smith

The legendary British actor known for her iconic roles in Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter series passed away at 89 on Sept. 27 in London. Maggie Smith’s career spanned decades, earning her two Oscars, three Emmys, and countless accolades for her stellar performances on stage and screen.

Read the full obit here. 

Liam Payne

The One Direction star tragically died at 31 on Oct. 16 after a fall from a hotel in Buenos Aires. Liam was a beloved member of the globally successful boy band and was cherished for his contributions to music and his enduring fanbase.

Read the full obit here. 

Teri Garr

The beloved comedic actor, celebrated for her roles in Young Frankenstein and Tootsie, died at 79 after battling multiple sclerosis on Oct. 29. Teri brought her infectious energy to every performance, earning her an Oscar nomination and a place in fans' hearts.

Sadhu Meher

A veteran actor and director, Sadhu Meher passed away at 84 on Feb 2. Known for his work in Bollywood’s new wave cinema, he debuted in Mrinal Sen’s Bhuvan Shome and was an alumnus of the prestigious FTII.

Kavita Chaudhary

The multifaceted actress, producer, and director, best remembered for her role as an IPS officer in Udaan, died at 67 on Feb 15. Kavita also contributed to iconic shows like Apradhi Kaun and Karrle Tu Mohabbat.

Suhani Bhatnagar

The young actor, known for portraying Babita Phogat in Dangal, passed away at 19 due to a rare illness on Feb 16. Suhani’s brief but impactful performance left an impression on audiences across the nation.

Read the full obit here.

Rituraj Singh

The versatile actor, famous for his roles in TV classics like Banegi Apni Baat and Diya Aur Baati Hum, died of cardiac arrest at 59 on Feb 19. Rituraj began his career as a host before earning fame for his acting skills.

Read the full obit here.

Kumar Shahani

The acclaimed filmmaker and screenwriter passed away at 83. A pioneer of Indian parallel cinema, he is remembered for his visionary works like Maya Darpan and Khayal Gatha.

Pankaj Udhas

The ghazal maestro, known for his soulful voice, died at 72 after a prolonged illness on Feb 26. Pankaj gained fame with albums like Mukarar and played a pivotal role in popularizing ghazals worldwide.

Read the full obit here. 

Smriti Biswas

The veteran actor, who graced Hindi, Marathi, and Bengali cinema, passed away at 100 on July 3. Her career began as a child artist in 1930, and she worked in numerous classic films.

Read the full obit here.

Menaka Irani

The mother of Farah and Sajid Khan, Menaka Irani, passed away at 79 after prolonged health issues on July 26. She was a cherished figure in Bollywood circles, known for her warmth and grace.

Read the full obit here. 

Asha Sharma

The veteran actor, known for her motherly roles in films like Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Damini, passed away at 87. Her career spanned five decades and over 200 films.

Vikas Sethi

The popular TV actor from shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kasautii Zindagi Kay passed away at 48 on Sept 8. Vikas was a prominent face of Indian television in the 2000s.

Read the full obit here. 

Rohit Bal

The celebrated fashion designer who revolutionized Indian couture passed away at 63 on Nov 1. Rohit Bal was renowned for dressing global celebrities and elevating Indian fashion to international acclaim.

Sharda Sinha

The acclaimed folk and classical singer passed away at 72 after battling multiple health issues on Nov 5. Sharda was known for her melodious voice and songs that captured the essence of Indian culture.

Read the full obit here. 

Helen Gallagher

The Broadway and soap opera star of Ryan’s Hope fame died at 98 on Nov 24. Helen was celebrated for her remarkable stage presence and contributions to the performing arts.

Georgina Cooper

The 1990s British model, who gained fame during the “Cool Britannia” era, died at 46 on Nov 8. Georgina was admired for her elegance and contribution to the fashion world.

Shelley Duvall

The Shining actor passed away at 75 due to diabetes complications on July 11. Shelley’s unforgettable roles in iconic films made her a beloved figure in Hollywood history.