Known for his roles in the Akshay Kumar-starrer Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi (1996) and Salman Khan films like Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge (2002) and Wanted (2009), actor Inder Kumar passed away on Friday morning in Mumbai following a cardiac arrest. Inder had also briefly played Mihir Virani in the popular TV show, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.

His ex-father-in-law Raju Karia told the media, “He passed away at 2 am on Friday after suffering a cardiac arrest.“ The actor's life was marred by controversies, but there were always those who stood by him. Here's what Salim Khan, Isha Koppikar (who dated him for 10 years) and Deepshikha Nagpal had to say about the late actor.

INDER SOUNDED STRESSED WHEN I SPOKE TO HIM TWO DAYS AGO: DEEPSHIKHA NAGPAL
Deepshikha Nagpal and Inder became friends during her directorial debut Yeh Dooriyan, in which he played a pivotal role. Since then, the two kept in touch. A shocked Deepshikha said, “I spoke to him just a couple of days ago. I still can't believe he is no more. He was a wonderful guy and fantastic actor. I met him during the shoot of my film; he was a thorough professional. Salman Khan, who he held in high regard, had recommended him to me as I was looking for someone to play the character of Aditya.“

She added, “He would drop by my place quite often. He was going through a rough patch in terms of finances and work. I would always encourage him to stay positive. I am also close to his wife. He doted on his daughter. His wife would advise him to speak to me whenever he felt low. I am still in a state of shock. May his soul rest in peace and God give strength to his family.“

-Neha Maheshwri

INDER'S LIFE WAS FULL OF UPS AND DOWNS: ISHA KOPPIKAR
Actress Isha Koppikar was in a relationship with Inder Kumar for almost a decade before the two went their separate ways. The actress had not been in touch with Inder or his family for the past few years, but was in a state of shock when the news of his death surfaced.

Isha was unable to hide her emotions. She told BT, “I just got to know about it. I am deeply grieved. This should not happen to anyone. Inder was too young. He was only 43 and is survived by his ex-wife and a little daughter. I am extremely shocked and saddened and feel deeply for his family, especially his daughter and brother Goldie, who always stood by him like a rock.“

She reminisced, “Inder had such great potential as an actor, but he threw it all away because of some habits. Only if he was more responsible, this wouldn't have happened and he would still be with us. We should always think about our parents, the way we've been brought up, our siblings, our spouse and those who care for us. Inder's life was full of ups and downs. He had it in him to be on top of his game as an actor, but he let it slip out of his hands. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family.“

-Renuka Vyavahare


YEH KOI UMAR NAHI THI USKE JAANE KI: SALIM KHAN
Inder was close to Salman Khan and his family. When contacted, Salman's father, writer Salim Khan, said, “Inder was a young boy. Yeh koi umar nahi thi uske jaane ki. He was a bright actor. He worked with Salman and was quite promising. Jo hua, bura hua. My condolences to his family and prayers for the departed soul.“

-Rachana Dubey