New Delhi: Popular stand-up comedian and actor Raju Srivastava left for his heavenly abode today, on September 21, after struggling for over a month in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of AIIMS, New Delhi. Raju had suffered a heart attack on August 10, while exercising on a treadmill in a gym in south Delhi.
He was immediately taken to AIIMS Delhi where he was undergoing treatment for over a month. The comedian best known for his stage character 'Gajodhar' passed away at the age of 58. His family confirmed the news of his death.
As soon as the news of Raju's death broke, politicians and celebrities took to their social media handles to mourn the demise of the popular comedian.
The Union Minister for Road Transport and Highway Authorities, Nitin Gadkari, took to his twitter handle to offer condolences on Raju Srivastava's death. He tweeted, "Anguished to hear about the demise of Comedy Legend Raju Srivastav Ji. An Entertainer par Excellence, his mannerisms & observational comedy truly mirrored the daily life of us Indians. My condolences to his family members. Om Shanti"
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar expressed his grief as he wrote, "Saddened to hear the tragic news of Raju Srivastav's untimely demise. He made us all laugh with his amazing comic timing for so many years we have lost a gem. My deepest condolences to his family members & admirers."
BJP national president JP Nadda extended his condolences on the demise of comedian Raju Srivastava.
"Raju Srivastava is no more with us. I, on behalf of the people of UP, pray that his soul rests in peace. I extend my condolences to his family: Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath"
Netizens also mourned the demise of Raju Srivastava and expressed grief by taking to their social media handles.
One user wrote, "Heartbreaking to hear the untimely demise of famous Indian comedian, actor Raju Srivastav Ji. Raju Srivastav was one man who could mimic anyone effortlessly. You will be missed"
Another user wrote, "RIP #RajuSrivastava .. Legend in the field of Stand Up comedy.. My favorite of all time.. Om Shanti Gajodhar Bhaiya"
One user shared, "Gone too soon, too far"
Raju Srivastava had carved a niche for himself in the world of stand-up comedy with his well-timed jokes and comic takes on some very relevant situations in life. He rose to fame with the first-of-its-kind stand-up comedy talent hunt show 'The Great Indian Laughter Challenge', with its first season premiering in the year 2005.
He appeared in Hindi films such as 'Maine Pyar Kiya', 'Baazigar', 'Bombay to Goa' (remake) and 'Aamdani Atthani Kharcha Rupaiya'. He was one of the contestants on 'Bigg Boss' season three. He was the chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Film Development Council.
ALSO READ: Comedian Raju Srivastava Passes Away At The Age Of 58