Veteran actor, writer and theatre director Navnindra Behl, best known for playing Shivaay’s (Nakuul Mehta`s) grandmother in the popular TV show Ishqbaaaz, has passed away. The news of her demise was confirmed by her filmmaker son Kanu Behl. Behl, a respected figure in theatre and television, was known for her decades-long contribution as an actor, writer and mentor in the performing arts.
Navnindra Behl dies at 76
The news of her passing away was confirmed by her son, writer, Kanu Behl. Taking to his social media handle, he wrote, “My Titan. My faith. Love. Guide. Mentor. My heart. Go well, mumma. Until you birth me again.”
He continued, “My eyes shall always seek that irrepressible smile, that warm chuckle, that bear hug, those burning curious eyes. Forever alight. Thank you for lighting my soul.”
As soon as Kanu shared the news, several celebs paid heartfelt tribute to veteran star. While Aahana Kumra dropped joining hand emoji, Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor wrote, “Terribly sorry for your loss.” Ranvir Shorey and Rasika Dugal also extended condolences.
More about Navnindra Behl
Navnindra Behl is a veteran actor, writer, and director who has dabbled with theatre, television, and cinema. She has an experience of over three decades. She acted in projects by prolific filmmakers such as Gulzar (Maachis, 1996), Dibakar Banerjee (Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!), and Vishal Bhardwaj (Gubbare), as well as Hollywood projects like The Pride and The Guru. She was also seen in Khufiya, directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and starring Tabu in a pivotal role. On television, she gained prominence for her role in Ishqbaaaz and Dil Boley Oberoi, starring Nakuul Mehta and Surbhi Chandna.
In an interview with Firstpost, she spoke about the evolution of cinema and said, “I started my career in theatre when I was two years old. I have seen the history of performing arts, from radio and theatre to television, films and OTT. With these changes, requirements also evolve. Now that there are so many platforms, artists are given ample opportunities to explore different kinds of projects.”
Talking about her family, Behl was the eldest daughter of dramatist and theatre personality Kapoor Singh Ghuman. Her husband, Lalit Behl, was a theatre and television director-actor, while her son Kanu Behl is a film writer and director.