The passing of veteran actor Satish Shah has come as a shock to his family and industry friends. To honour his legacy and remember his contributions, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to posthumously honour the late actor with a Padma Shri. On Tuesday, the body wrote a letter to the Prime Minister requesting that he confer the honour, given Shah’s significant contribution to the field of entertainment.
FWICE’s appeal to honour Satish Shah
In its letter, the film body praised Shah and spoke about his work in the showbiz world, calling the late actor a respected and admired figure.
The letter read, “With folded hands and deep respect, we, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), the parent body of 36 affiliated associations and scores of members representing the vast workforce of the Indian film, television, and digital industry, wish to humbly appeal to your good self to kindly consider conferring the Padma Shri Award (posthumously) upon Late Shri Satish Shah, one of India’s most beloved and distinguished actors.”
It further read, “Late Shri Satish Shah was a rare and gifted artist whose work brought joy, laughter, and emotion to millions across our nation. 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 television shows, he became a household name and a symbol of excellence in the performing arts.”
The body lauded the late actor’s versatility, humour, and human warmth, which made him one of the most respected and admired figures in Indian entertainment. Beyond his immense talent, the late actor was also a kind and compassionate soul who always encouraged fellow artistes, technicians, and the entire fraternity.
The letter further mentioned, “He was deeply respected by the working community and supported several welfare initiatives of FWICE with generosity and grace. His loss has left an emotional void in the hearts of all who knew him and in the creative world he helped shape. Honouring him with the Padma Shri Award (posthumously) would be a most fitting tribute to a life devoted to art, culture, and service through entertainment. It would recognise not just an actor, but a man who made India smile for over four decades and inspired countless others to follow their passion.”
About Satish Shah’s death
Satish Shah passed away on October 25, reportedly due to kidney failure. His last rites were held a day later at the Pawan Hans Crematorium. A prayer meeting was organised on October 27.
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, actor Rajesh Kumar, who played Roshesh Sarabhai in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, revealed that Satish Shah passed away due to a heart attack, not kidney failure. He said, “I can’t tell you how emotional these last 24–25 hours have been. It’s very difficult to even express it. But I do want to clarify a few things about Satishji’s passing. Yes, he did have a kidney issue, but he actually passed away due to a heart attack.”
The actor is survived by his wife, designer Madhu Shah.
