The Indian film and television fraternity has united to seek a national honour for one of its most cherished artists. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to bestow the Padma Shri award posthumously upon late actor Satish Shah, who passed away on October 25 at the age of 74.
In the heartfelt letter, FWICE hailed Satish Shah as &ldquo;a gifted artist who brought joy and laughter to millions through his iconic roles.&rdquo; The federation, which represents 36 affiliated associations and a vast workforce across the Indian entertainment industry, appealed to the Prime Minister to recognise the actor&rsquo;s unparalleled legacy.
&ldquo;With folded hands and deep respect, we humbly appeal to kindly consider conferring the Padma Shri Award (Posthumously) upon Late Shri Satish Shah, one of India's most beloved and distinguished actors,&rdquo; the letter stated.
The body went on to describe Satish Shah&rsquo;s contribution to cinema and television as monumental, highlighting his timeless performances in Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi, Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, Main Hoon Na and several other classics.
&ldquo;Late Shri Satish Shah was a rare and gifted artist whose work brought joy, laughter, and emotion to millions across our nation, he became a household name and a symbol of excellence in the performing arts,&rdquo; FWICE noted.
Calling his passing &ldquo;an emotional void in the hearts of all who knew him and in the creative world he helped shape,&rdquo; the federation said that the Padma Shri would be &ldquo;a most fitting tribute to a life devoted to art, culture, and service through entertainment.&rdquo;
Satish Shah&rsquo;s death has left the industry in mourning. The veteran actor collapsed during lunch at his Mumbai residence and was rushed to Hinduja Hospital, where doctors could not revive him. Though he had undergone a kidney transplant a few months earlier, close friend and co-actor Rajesh Kumar revealed that Shah succumbed to a heart attack.
The actor&rsquo;s funeral was held in Mumbai, followed by a prayer meet attended by his family, colleagues, and admirers. Known for his infectious humour and impeccable comic timing, Shah&rsquo;s body of work remains a cornerstone of Indian entertainment, one that continues to inspire generations of performers.

FWICE urges PM Modi to honour late actor Satish Shah with Padma Shri posthumously

FWICE Seeks Padma Shri for Satish Shah

FWICE urges PM Modi to honour late actor Satish Shah with Padma Shri posthumously

October 29, 2025 | 09:28 IST