Veteran actor Gufi Paintal, famous for his role as Shakuni mama in Mahabharat, has been hospitalized and was reported to be in critical condition. The actor has been unwell and had to be admitted to the hospital.
However, his son Harry Paintal confirmed to ETimes TV that his father’s health is now stable and he is recovering. He requested everyone to pray for his father.
Gajendra Chauhan, who portrayed the character of Yudhishtir in the show, also confirmed the news of Gufi Paintal’s illness. TV actress Tina Ghai, a close friend of Gufi Paintal, shared the news on her social media through an Instagram post. Fans flooded the post with “get well soon” messages as soon as the news was shared. Many fans expressed their prayers and wished for his speedy recovery.
In an interaction with Etimes, Tina Ghai said, “He is now stable, but yesterday was quite critical. He was fine while preparing for a play, memorizing lines and getting ready. Suddenly, he started feeling very uncomfortable and weak. He was immediately taken to the hospital. After some tests, it was discovered that he had water retention and slight heart and kidney issues. Since he lost his wife many years ago, we decided to keep him in the hospital. Yesterday he became stable, but we still need a lot of prayers for his healing.”
Gufi Paintal’s talent extends beyond acting, as he has also worked as a television director. In addition to his role in Mahabharat, which aired in the late 1980s, he has acted in several popular Bollywood films such as Rafoo Chakkar, Des Pardes, Dillagi, Maidan-E-Jung, Daava, and more.
His notable television works include Kanoon, Sauda, Akbar Birbal, Om Namah Shivay, Mrs. Kaushik ki Paanch Bahuein, Karn Sanghini, and others. He last appeared in the TV show Jai Kanhaiya Lal ki.
Mahabharat, the mythological series that aired on Doordarshan, was a massive hit and left a lasting impression on the minds of many fans. Gufi Paintal’s portrayal of Shakuni Mama in the series made him a household name, and he continues to enjoy immense popularity even today.
