The veteran actor used an Instagram video to question why leading stars stayed away from the late comedian’s last rites, urging the industry to remember humble contributors.
Veteran actor Raza Murad took to Instagram on Saturday morning to voice a grievance that many in the Hindi‑film world are feeling. In a short video, he mourned Mushtaq Khan – the comic‑relief stalwart who passed away on September 24 after a battle with cancer – and pointed out that none of the industry’s biggest faces turned up for the funeral held on September 25 in Mumbai.
"Afsoos baat yeh hai koi bhi star unhe apna aakhiri salaam pesh karne nahin aaya," Murad said, his tone a mix of sorrow and frustration. He added, "Koi bada chehra nahin aaya," underscoring the emptiness he felt when the ceremony was attended only by a handful of colleagues and friends.
Why Murad’s remarks matter
Murad didn’t name any specific star, but his criticism struck a chord because Mushtaq Khan was a familiar face in blockbusters such as Welcome, Hera Pheri and Gadar. The actor built his career on a steady stream of supporting and comedic roles, never relying on industry patronage. "Na unhone kisi ki chamchagiri ki, woh bas apne kaam ke balboote pe yahan tak pohoche hai," Murad observed, praising Khan’s self‑made journey.
The funeral did see attendance from fellow character actors – Rajat Bedi, Rajpal Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, Manish Wadhwa, Sulabha Arya – as well as filmmaker Anees Bazmee and a few others who posted tributes online. Yet the glaring lack of A‑list names sparked a broader conversation about how Bollywood treats its unsung veterans.
Industry insiders have noted that the last‑minute nature of funeral arrangements, combined with packed shooting schedules, often makes it hard for top stars to appear. Still, Murad’s point resonates: a simple gesture of respect could go a long way in honoring those who spent decades shaping the fabric of Hindi cinema.
Social media lit up with mixed reactions. Some fans applauded Murad for speaking his mind, while others defended the absent actors, citing logistical constraints. A few commenters reminded the community that Mushtaq Khan’s own legacy lives on through the countless scenes that still make audiences laugh.
The episode also revives an ongoing debate about the hierarchy within Bollywood. While leading actors command massive fan followings and lucrative endorsements, character artists like Khan often work behind the scenes, rarely getting the spotlight they deserve. Murad’s public call for humility is a reminder that fame is fleeting, and respect should extend beyond the red carpet.
As the industry moves forward, the question remains whether this moment will prompt a shift in how peers honor each other’s milestones. For now, Mushtaq Khan’s family and close friends are left to cherish the memories of a man who made a living by making others smile.
The next time a veteran passes, perhaps the answer will be a simple presence at the farewell – a small act that could speak louder than any statement on social media.
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