FWICE Urges PM Modi to Confer Padma Shri Posthumously on Late Actor Satish Shah

Veteran actor Satish Shah, who passed away on October 25 at the age of 74, is being remembered with growing calls to honour his remarkable legacy. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the government to confer the Padma Shri on the late actor posthumously in recognition of his decades-long contribution to Indian cinema and television.

Film Body Appeals for National Honour

In a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, FWICE described Satish Shah as “a gifted artist who brought joy and laughter to millions through his iconic roles.” The federation, representing 36 affiliated associations and thousands of film and television industry workers, said the award would be a fitting tribute to an actor who dedicated his life to the performing arts.

“Through his unforgettable performances in Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Main Hoon Na, and numerous other landmark films and shows, he became a household name and a symbol of excellence,” the letter stated.

The organisation further noted that Shah’s passing has left “an emotional void in the hearts of all who knew him and in the creative world he helped shape.” It added that honouring him posthumously would celebrate not just his artistry but his lasting impact on Indian entertainment.

Satish Shah’s Passing

Shah died on October 25 after collapsing at his Mumbai home during lunch. He was rushed to Hinduja Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead. Although the veteran actor had undergone a kidney transplant a few months earlier, actor Rajesh Kumar (Roshesh from Sarabhai vs Sarabhai) clarified that the cause of death was a heart attack, not kidney failure.

His funeral was held in Mumbai on Sunday, followed by a prayer meet on Monday attended by family, friends, and members of the film fraternity, who paid their final tributes to one of India’s most beloved comedy icons.