starbyte team
The Bhojpuri film industry mourns the loss of Vijay Khare, a legendary actor who passed away on December 15, 2024, at the age of 72 in Bengaluru. Known as the «Gabbar Singh» of Bhojpuri cinema, Khare had been battling health complications related to kidney disease and Parkinson’s. He took his last breath at Cauvery Hospital after a period of prolonged illness.
A Prolific Career in Bhojpuri Cinema
Born in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Vijay Khare was an icon of Bhojpuri films, appearing in over 200 movies across five decades. Known for his powerful performances, he gained fame in villainous roles, particularly in films like Rai Jaada (1976), Ganga Kinare Mora Gaon (1983), and Hamra Se Biyah Karba (2003). His portrayal of complex antagonists earned him the nickname «Bihar’s Gabbar Singh,» a testament to his influence and enduring legacy in regional cinema.
In 2019, Vijay Khare was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to Bhojpuri cinema. During the award ceremony, he emphasized the need for promoting young talent in the industry and called for efforts to enhance Bhojpuri cinema’s global reach.
Legacy Beyond Acting
Vijay Khare’s influence extended beyond the silver screen. He established the Vijay Khare Academy in Mumbai to train and mentor aspiring actors, playing a pivotal role in shaping the careers of many young talents. Despite residing in Mumbai, he remained deeply connected to his hometown, advocating for Muzaffarpur to emerge as a hub for Bhojpuri filmmaking.
Tributes from the Industry
Condolences poured in from across the Bhojpuri film fraternity, with stars like Ravi Kishan, Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua), and Manoj Tiwari expressing their grief. Ravi Kishan called Khare a “pioneer of Bhojpuri cinema,” while Nirahua highlighted his ability to elevate every scene he performed in.
Final Farewell
The loss of Vijay Khare marks the end of an era for Bhojpuri cinema. His legacy as a performer, mentor, and cultural advocate will continue to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers. The funeral is expected to be held in Mumbai, with close family and industry colleagues paying their respects to the trailblazer who shaped the golden era of Bhojpuri cinema.
