Mohali, India! August 22, 2025: The Punjabi entertainment industry is in mourning following the sudden passing of the beloved actor-comedian Jaswinder Bhalla, who died early Friday morning at a private hospital in Mohali, aged 65, after a brief illness.
Bhalla, internationally celebrated for his iconic role as Advocate Dhillon in the Carry On Jatta film series and the legendary “Kaala Coat” dialogue, had built a legacy that spanned both comedy and academia.
A Life of Laughter and Learning:
Born on May 4, 1960, in Ludhiana, Punjab, Bhalla was not only a comedy phenomenon but also a dedicated educator. He earned his B.Sc. (Honours) and M.Sc. in Extension Education from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), followed by a Ph.D. from CCS University, Meerut. Bhalla served as a professor—and at one point, Head—of the Department of Extension Education at PAU until his retirement in 2020.
Bhalla’s comedic career began in 1988 with the audio-video satire series Chhankata. His character Chacha Chatar Singh, with his rustic humor and sharp social commentary, became a cultural mainstay. Over the years, Bhalla released more than 27 installments of Chhankata, gaining fans across the Punjabi diaspora.
On screen, Bhalla appeared in numerous memorable Punjabi films such as Mahaul Theek Hai, Jatt & Juliet, Mel Karade Rabba, and Power Cut. His portrayal of Advocate Dhillon in the Carry On Jatta franchise remains one of the most cherished performances in Punjabi comedy.
Final Days and Last Tribute:
According to sources, Bhalla suffered a brain stroke on Wednesday evening and was immediately admitted to Fortis Hospital in Mohali. Despite medical efforts, he passed away Friday morning, August 22, 2025.
His cremation is scheduled for August 23, 2025, at 12:00 noon at the Balongi Cremation Ground in Mohali, where family, friends, and fans are expected to gather and pay their respects.
Tributes Pour In:
Tributes have poured in from across the Punjabi community. Stars like Gippy Grewal, Neeru Bajwa, Happy Raikoti, and Binnu Dhillon have shared heartfelt messages, mourning the loss of a beloved friend and colleague.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann paid a poignant tribute, saying that “Chacha Chatra will always reside in our hearts.” Other political leaders, including SAD President Sukhbir Singh Badal, also expressed their condolences, recognizing Bhalla as a symbol of wit and warmth.
A Legacy That Lives On:
aswinder Bhalla’s unique blend of wit, satire, and heart made him an icon. Whether on stage, screen, or in the classroom, he brought joy, insight, and laughter into people’s lives.
He is survived by his wife, Parmdeep Bhalla, their son Pukhraj Bhalla—also an actor—and daughter Ashpreet Kaur.
Though gone, Bhalla’s legacy will continue to echo through Punjabi comedy, reminding us of the power of humor, humility, and heart.
