An Op-Ed by Suchhi Kumar
“Na jāyate mriyate vā kadācin, nāyaṁ bhūtvā bhavitā vā na bhūyaḥ.
“न जायते म्रियते वा कदाचिन् नायं भूत्वा भविता वा न भूयः।
“The soul is never born, nor does it ever die. Having once existed, it never ceases to be.”
— Bhagavad Gita 2.20
The news of Pahlaj Nihalani Ji’s passing on June 4 has left the Indian film industry in mourning. Tributes have poured in from actors, filmmakers, technicians, and admirers across the country. Yet for many of us who had the privilege of knowing him personally, this loss extends beyond cinema.
For me, it is the loss of a mentor, a guide, and a friend.
Pahlaj Ji’s contribution to Indian cinema is well documented. As a producer, he backed films that entertained generations of audiences. More importantly, he believed in talent. Throughout his remarkable career, he opened doors for aspiring actors and filmmakers, helping launch careers and encouraging countless creative voices.
But the measure of a person is not only found in professional achievements. It is found in the lives they touch.
I was fortunate to experience that side of Pahlaj Ji.
Whenever I met him, I was struck not by his stature in the industry, but by his warmth. Despite decades of success, he remained approachable and generous with his time. He listened carefully, offered thoughtful advice, and treated people with genuine respect.
One of my most cherished memories is his support for my upcoming film, Once Upon a Time in Mauritius. At a time when independent filmmakers often struggled for visibility, Pahlaj Ji graciously promoted the project. The video messages he recorded remain invaluable memories that I will preserve forever.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/QP_zNM3YYJI
I also remember showing him footage from the film. After watching some of the visuals and sequences, he smiled warmly, embraced me, and congratulated me. It was a simple gesture, yet one that carried immense meaning. Coming from a filmmaker of his experience and stature, it felt like a blessing.
There was another moment that revealed the depth of his character.
During a particularly challenging period surrounding the release of one of my earlier theatrical films, uncertainty surrounded every decision. Those are the moments when one learns who truly stands beside them. Pahlaj Ji did. His encouragement, guidance, and unwavering support helped me navigate a difficult phase in my professional journey.
He did not offer help for recognition.
He offered it because he genuinely cared.
That quality is increasingly rare.
The film industry has lost many great producers over the years, but Pahlaj Nihalani belonged to a generation that viewed cinema not merely as a business, but as a responsibility. He understood the power of storytelling, the importance of nurturing talent, and the value of relationships built over decades.
His legacy will live on through the films he produced, the careers he helped shape, and the countless individuals who benefited from his wisdom.
As I reflect on his life, I am reminded that success may build reputations, but kindness builds legacies.
Pahlaj Ji leaves behind both.
Today, Bollywood has lost one of its most respected producers. I have lost someone whose encouragement gave me confidence, whose guidance offered clarity, and whose friendship enriched my life.
My world will not be the same without him.
Yet, as the Bhagavad Gita reminds us, the soul does not perish. It continues its journey beyond what we can see. Perhaps that is where we find comfort today—not in mourning what has ended, but in gratitude for what was given.
You lit a thousand dreams with your unwavering light,
Guiding lost souls through cinema’s longest night.
A friend when hearts were broken, a guardian when hope was small,
Today the industry stands silent, mourning the greatest of them all.
Your voice still echoes in every blessing you gave.
Your smile still lives in every memory we shared.
Your encouragement still guides every step I take.
And your absence leaves a void that can never be filled.
My world will never be the same again.
Thank you, Pahlaj Ji, for your faith, your generosity, and your unwavering support.
Indian cinema will remember your achievements.
Those of us who knew you personally will remember your heart.
Goodbye, Pahlaj Ji.
— Suchhi Kumar
Actor & Filmmaker