Roopesh Kumar: Mumtaz’s Cousin and Iconic ‘Villain’ Dies Tragically at Awards Function; Dilip Kumar Was His Relative by Marriage

Roopesh Kumar, one of Bollywood’s most memorable villains from the 1960s to the 1990s, met a tragic end at an awards function, leaving fans and colleagues in shock. Born Abbas Farashahi, Roopesh was the cousin of actress Mumtaz and son-in-law of Dilip Kumar’s family through marriage. On 29 January, the industry marked the 31st death anniversary of this legendary actor, whose life story reflects both glamour and heartbreak.

Early Life and Family Background

Born in Mumbai as the eldest son of Ali Asgar Farashahi, Roopesh Kumar came from a family engaged in the restaurant and bakery business. Despite his family’s stable business, he was drawn to films from a young age and decided to leave school after the ninth grade to pursue acting. Initially, he worked in the family business at his father’s insistence but soon quit to follow his passion. Inspired by his cousin Mumtaz, one of Bollywood’s top actresses, he made his film debut in 1965, with the support of his mother.

Struggle in Mumbai

Mumbai was tough for aspiring actors, and Roopesh faced early struggles. He could not land film roles and exhausted the financial support from his mother. To survive, he worked as a waiter in a restaurant, which provided him with food and lodging. Despite these hardships, he persisted, visiting film studios and seeking opportunities to break into the industry.

Breakthrough in Films as a Villain

Roopesh’s perseverance paid off when he started getting supporting and villain roles. His debut year, 1965, saw him in films like Tarzan and King Kong. Over the next three decades, he became known for his chilling villainous roles and memorable supporting characters. Iconic films like Sita Aur Geeta, Andaz, The Great Gambler, Jaani Dushman, Bade Dilwala, and Hum Paanch showcased his versatility and cemented his place among Bollywood’s legendary villains.

Tragic Death at Awards Function

In 1995, tragedy struck. Roopesh Kumar, aged only 49, attended a prominent awards function alongside industry stalwarts such as Rajendra Kumar and Sunil Dutt. Seated next to Sunil Dutt, with Rajendra Kumar on the other side, Roopesh suddenly complained of chest pain. Despite immediate efforts to rush him to the hospital, he suffered a fatal heart attack before treatment could begin. That year also saw the posthumous release of his final film, Paapi Devta.

Personal Life and Family Ties to Dilip Kumar

Roopesh Kumar was married and had children. His eldest daughter married Zahid Khan, the nephew of Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar, making the legendary actor his relative by marriage.

Roopesh Kumar’s life is remembered as a blend of cinematic glory, personal struggle, and a tragic early end—an iconic villain whose legacy continues to inspire Bollywood enthusiasts.