Punjab’s iconic comedian Jaswinder Bhalla passes away at 65
Jaswinder Bhalla earned his PhD in Extension Education and served as a professor and head of the Department of Extension Education at Punjab Agricultural University before retiring in 2020.
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Comedian and actor Jaswinder Bhalla. (Photo Credit: Instagram)Punjabi cinema’s iconic comedian and actor Jaswinder Bhalla passed away Friday morning following a brain stroke, leaving fans and the film fraternity in shock. He was 65.
He passed away at a private hospital in Mohali.
Known for his impeccable comic timing, biting satire, and relatable characters, Bhalla was one of the most beloved figures in Punjabi entertainment.
Born on May 4, 1960, in Ludhiana, Bhalla began his journey far from the glamour of the film world. A scholar by training, he earned his PhD in Extension Education, and served as a professor and head of the Department of Extension Education at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) before retiring in 2020.
It was his innate sense of humour and sharp observational skills that brought him fame through comedy.
Bhalla rose to prominence with Chhankata, a satirical audio-video series launched in 1988 that became a cultural phenomenon. His character Chacha Chatar Singh remains legendary for its rustic humour and social commentary. Over the years, Bhalla released 27 instalments of Chhankata, which resonated deeply with Punjabi audiences worldwide.
On the big screen, Bhalla became synonymous with Punjabi comedy, featuring in some of the industry’s most successful films. From Mahaul Theek Hai to blockbuster hits like Carry On Jatta, Jatt & Juliet, Mel Karade Rabba, and Power Cut, his roles were marked by memorable one-liners and effortless charm. His portrayal of Advocate Dhillon in Carry On Jatta and Inspector Tiwana in Jatt & Juliet are considered among the finest comic performances in Punjabi cinema.
Over his decades-long career, Bhalla earned numerous accolades, including the Gopal Sehgal Award in 2012 for his contribution to satirical comedy, the Mohammad Rafi Award for Best Comedian, and the Best Punjabi Comedian Award at the Asian Festival. He also bagged PTC Punjabi Film Awards for Carry On Jatta and Jatt & Juliet and was honoured at events across Canada, the UK, and the US.
Beyond films, Bhalla remained deeply connected to education and social causes, serving as PAU’s brand ambassador and championing initiatives like Mission Swachh and Swasth Punjab. His humour was more than entertainment; it was a reflection of Punjabi life, blending satire with warmth.
Upasna Sungh, one of his co-stars, said Bhalla’s passing marks the end of an era. “His laughter will continue to echo through his films, reminding generations of the joy and insight he brought to Punjabi culture.”
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