Mahabharat’s Shakuni Mama – Gufi Paintal dies. He was 78

Marking another loss to the entertainment industry, popular actor Gufi Paintal passed away on June 5, 2023 due to deterioration in health. He was 78 years old.

#GufiPaintal, who portrayed Shakuni Mama in Mahabharat, has passed away. The cremation will reportedly be held at 4pm today. pic.twitter.com/iqlqgnku0k

— Filmfare (@filmfare) June 5, 2023

Hiten Paintal, Gufi’s nephew, confirmed the news and informed that he was witnessing some age-related health issues that could not be rectified. Hiten informed PTI, “Unfortunately, he is no more. He passed away at the hospital at around 9 am. His heart gave up. He passed away peacefully in his sleep.”

Mostly known for his role of Shakuni Mama in Mahabharat, Gufi Paintal was last seen in a short role in Sharmaji Namkeen (2022). The film also marked the last work of late actor Rishi Kapoor.

Paintal has been credited of playing some of the most iconic characters in the history of Indian entertainment industry. While BR Chopra’s magnum opus Mahabharat, where he played Shakuni, made him a household name, his roles in films like Suhaag, Dillagi, Rafoo Chakkar, Des Pardes, Daava, Maidan-E-Jung among others were notable too.

On the small screen as well, Paintal hit the right chord with the Indian audiences. He mesmerised viewers with his captivating performances in Kanoon, Sauda, Akbar Birbal, Om Namah Shivay, Karn Sanghini, CID and many more.

Paintal is survived by a son and daughter-in-law.