Jaswinder Bhalla, a beloved figure in Punjabi cinema known for his comedic brilliance, passed away at 65 after suffering a brain stroke, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning.
Jaswinder Bhalla, a cherished comedian and actor in Punjabi cinema, passed away on Friday morning following a brain stroke. He was 65 years old. His sudden departure has left the film fraternity and fans around the world in profound shock.
Regarded as one of the most iconic figures in Punjabi entertainment, Bhalla was celebrated for his sharp satire, relatable characters, and unmatched comic timing, which made him a household name across the region. His contributions to the industry have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Punjab.
Born on May 4, 1960, in Ludhiana, Bhalla initially pursued a career in academics before venturing into the world of entertainment. He held a doctorate in Extension Education and served as a professor, eventually becoming the head of the Department of Extension Education at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) until his retirement in 2020. Despite his academic achievements, it was his natural humor and keen societal observations that propelled him into the limelight.
Bhalla first gained widespread recognition with “Chhankata,” a satirical audio-video series launched in 1988 that became a cultural landmark in Punjab. His character, Chacha Chatar Singh, known for his rustic wit and incisive social commentary, remains a beloved figure in the memories of audiences. Over three decades, Bhalla produced 27 installments of “Chhankata,” each resonating with Punjabi communities worldwide.
His success on stage seamlessly transitioned into cinema, where he delivered some of the most memorable performances in Punjabi films. From “Mahaul Theek Hai” to mega-hits like “Carry On Jatta,” “Jatt & Juliet,” “Mel Karade Rabba,” and “Power Cut,” Bhalla consistently left audiences in stitches with his effortless delivery and signature one-liners. His portrayals as Advocate Dhillon in “Carry On Jatta” and Inspector Tiwana in “Jatt & Juliet” are celebrated as some of the finest comic roles in Punjabi cinema.
Throughout his illustrious career, Bhalla received numerous accolades, including the Gopal Sehgal Award in 2012 for his contributions to satirical comedy, the Mohammad Rafi Award for Best Comedian, and the Best Punjabi Comedian award at the Asian Festival. His performances in “Carry On Jatta” and “Jatt & Juliet” also earned him recognition at the PTC Punjabi Film Awards. His work was acknowledged not only in India but also at cultural events across Canada, the UK, and the US.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Bhalla remained actively engaged with academia and social causes. As the brand ambassador for PAU, he promoted initiatives such as Mission Swachh and Swasth Punjab, effectively blending his humor with messages of awareness and community welfare.
In a heartfelt tribute, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “ਜਸਵਿੰਦਰ ਭੱਲਾ ਜੀ ਦੇ ਅਚਾਨਕ ਇਸ ਦੁਨੀਆਂ ਤੋਂ ਚਲੇ ਜਾਣਾ ਬੇਹੱਦ ਅਫ਼ਸੋਸਜਨਕ ਹੈ..ਛਣਕਾਟਿਆਂ ਦੀ ਛਣਕਾਰ ਬੰਦ ਹੋਣ ਤੇ ਮਨ ਉਦਾਸ ਹੈ..ਵਾਹਿਗੁਰੂ ਚਰਨਾਂ ਚ ਨਿਵਾਸ ਬਖਸ਼ਣ…ਚਾਚਾ ਚਤਰਾ ਹਮੇਸ਼ਾ ਸਾਡੇ ਦਿਲਾਂ ਚ ਵਸਦੇ ਰਹਿਣਗੇ..”
Actor Upasna Singh also remembered Bhalla, saying, “His passing marks the end of an era. His laughter will continue to echo through his films, reminding generations of the joy and insight he brought to Punjabi culture.”
Jaswinder Bhalla’s demise leaves an irreplaceable void in Punjabi entertainment, but his legacy of satire, laughter, and heartfelt humor will continue to inspire generations to come.
Source: Original article