In an emotional video that has touched the hearts of fans nationwide, Sumeet Raghavan, fighting back tears, bid farewell to his on-screen father, remembering the man who was so much more than just a co-star.
In a heartfelt tribute that has resonated with fans and colleagues alike, Sumeet Raghavan mourned the passing of veteran actor Satish Shah, his on-screen father from the cult classic sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. Fighting back tears, Sumeet Raghavan expressed his profound grief, remembering Shah not just as a brilliant actor, but as a father figure and the beloved “eldest member” of their television family.
The entertainment industry lost a true legend on October 25, when Satish Shah, renowned for his iconic role as Indravadan Sarabhai, passed away at the age of 74 due to kidney failure . The news has prompted an outpouring of grief, with Raghavan’s emotional farewell offering a poignant glimpse into the deep bond the cast shared.
A Son’s Goodbye: Sumeet Raghavan’s Emotional Tribute
Sumeet Raghavan, who played Sahil Sarabhai, the son of Shah’s character in the show, took to Instagram to share his sorrow with a video message. Visibly emotional, he reflected on the unique and enduring relationship that developed among the cast members long after the cameras stopped rolling.
“There can only ever be one Indravadan — that’s Satish kaka (uncle),” Sumeet Raghavan stated, his voice heavy with emotion . He explained that the show’s surprising second life as a cultural phenomenon only strengthened their off-screen bond. “The bigger this show became, the stronger our bond grew. So whenever we would meet each other, we were not Sumeet, Rupali, or Rajesh. We talked to each other as Sahil, Monisha, Rosesh, Dad, and Mom” .
Addressing the finality of his loss, Sumeet Raghavan said, “Today, the eldest member of the Sarabhai family has left us” . He acknowledged that Shah had been unwell for some time, adding, “Life can be very cruel” . Concluding his message as the “eldest son” of the on-screen family, he accepted condolences from fans and bid a personal farewell: “So long, Dada. Safe travels, and see you on the other side” .
More Than a Co-Star: A Bond That Defined a Family
The depth of loss felt by the Sarabhai vs Sarabhai cast underscores a relationship that transcended a typical professional setting. Raghavan was not alone in his sentiments; the show’s family was united in grief.
Rajesh Kumar, who played the eccentric poet Rosesh Sarabhai, expressed his devastation in a moving post, calling it his “worst hour” . “I still cannot process that Satish ji is no more. All I can say is that it feels I have lost my father” . He described Shah as a “man full of life and humour” and his passing as a “big, big loss” to the industry and their tight-knit Sarabhai family .
This familial bond, forged on the set of a show that was initially a ratings underperformer but later became a cult classic, clearly remained intact for over two decades . The cast’s reunion pictures, which went viral on social media in previous years, were a testament to the genuine connection they shared—a connection that makes this loss feel deeply personal for both the actors and their audience .
Remembering Satish Shah: The Man Behind Indravadan
Beyond the Sarabhai household, Satish Shah’s legacy is that of a versatile and beloved actor with a career spanning more than 50 years in film and television .
He first became a household name in the 1980s with the show Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi and went on to deliver memorable performances in iconic films like Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Main Hoon Na, Hum Saath Saath Hain, and Kal Ho Naa Ho . His comedic timing and ability to elevate any scene made him a sought-after character actor.
In his personal life, Shah was defined by his enduring love story with his wife, Madhu Shah. The couple’s marriage lasted over five decades, a testament to their deep bond . Reports indicate that Shah, who had been battling kidney ailments, underwent a transplant just three months before his passing. A close friend revealed he pursued the procedure “just because he wanted to live more for his wife Madhu Shah” . The couple, who married in 1972 after Shah proposed three times, did not have children, choosing instead to dedicate their lives to each other .
The Legacy of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai
The show that forever linked Sumeet Sumeet Raghavan and Satish Shah, Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, holds a unique place in Indian television history. Though it only ran for 70 episodes in its first season from 2004 to 2006 due to low viewership, it has since achieved legendary status .
The sitcom revolved around a wealthy Gujarati family in South Mumbai and the culture clashes that ensue when their son marries a middle-class woman . Celebrated for its sharp writing, sophisticated humor, and stellar performances, the show developed a massive fanbase in reruns and online, being hailed as “ahead of its time” and “unarguably one of the best sitcoms in Indian Television” .
The show was revived for a second season in 2017, a full 11 years after the first season ended, demonstrating its enduring popularity . However, for those hoping for more, Sumeet Raghavan has since clarified that a third season is not in the works, famously remarking, “A Taj Mahal has been built, and you cannot build it again” . The statement perfectly captures the show’s perfection and the irreplaceable nature of its original cast, especially Satish Shah.
A Final Farewell
The passing of Satish Shah marks the end of an era for Indian entertainment. For fans, he was the mischievous and lovable Indravadan Sarabhai. For his colleagues, he was a mentor and a father figure whose absence leaves a void that cannot be filled.
As Sumeet Raghavan, Rajesh Kumar, and the countless others who loved him grapple with this loss, they are left with the memories of his humour, his talent, and the profound personal connections he fostered. In his own words, Raghavan’s simple farewell echoes the sentiment of a nation of mourners: “Safe travels, and see you on the other side” .
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How did Satish Shah die?
Satish Shah passed away on October 25, 2025, due to kidney failure. He had been battling kidney ailments for months and had undergone a kidney transplant just three months prior .
2. What was the name of Satish Shah’s character in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai?
He played the role of Indravadan “Indu” Sarabhai, the witty and mischievous patriarch of the Sarabhai family .
3. How did other Sarabhai vs Sarabhai cast members react to his death?
The entire cast has been deeply affected. Rajesh Kumar, who played his son Rosesh, said, “It feels I have lost my father” . Sumeet Raghavan, his other on-screen son, posted an emotional video tribute, calling him the “eldest member of the Sarabhai family” .
4. Was Sarabhai vs Sarabhai a successful show?
While its initial run in 2004-2006 had low viewership and only 70 episodes, it later became a massive cult classic and is now widely regarded as one of the best Indian sitcoms ever made. Its popularity led to a second season in 2017 .
5. Is there going to be a new season of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai?
No, according to Sumeet Raghavan, a third season is not in the works. He has stated that recreating the magic of the original is like trying to rebuild the Taj Mahal .
Satish Shah’s legacy is one of laughter, impeccable comic timing, and the creation of a character that felt like family to millions. If you haven’t experienced his genius, seek out an episode of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and see why a nation is in mourning. Share your favourite Indravadan Sarabhai moment online to help keep his memory alive.
