Kushal Punjabi, a multifaceted Indian personality, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. This comprehensive biography details his life, career, and untimely passing.
Wiki/Biography
Born on Friday, April 23, 1982, in Mumbai, Kushal Punjabi’s zodiac sign was Taurus. He was a vibrant individual, enthusiastically participating in various sports throughout his childhood, including cycling, skating, dancing, football, athletics, and swimming. Post-graduation, he explored diverse career paths, working as a bartender, purser for Jet Airways, and even a life insurance agent and financial consultant in Dubai, showcasing his adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5′ 10”
- Hair Colour: Black
- Eye Colour: Brown
Family, Caste & Wife
Kushal hailed from a Sindhi family. His father, Capt. V.J. Punjabi, served in the Indian Navy, while his mother’s name was Priya Punjabi. He had two sisters, Reena and Monisha. He was married to Audrey Dolhen, and they had a son, Kian.
Career
Kushal’s career was a captivating blend of dance, acting, and direction. He started as a model and dancer, choreographing events such as the Gladrags Manhunt Mega Model contest and Mrs. India. He even directed the ‘Star Walk’ fashion event for the NGO Umeed. His television journey began in 1995 with “A Mouthful of Sky,” followed by various TV serials, including “Love Marriage,” “Don,” “Zindagi Wins,” “#LoveBytes,” “Kya Hal Mister Panchal,” “Sajan Re Phir Jhooth Mat Bolo,” and “Ishq Mein Marjawan.” He also graced episodic roles in shows like “CID,” “Sssshhh… Phir Koi Hai,” and “Adaalat.”
His Bollywood filmography includes “Lakshya,” “Kaal,” “Salaam-e-Ishq,” and “Crazy Cukkad Family.” He also ventured into film direction with the short film “The Gift” in 2017. Beyond acting and dancing, he was an adventure sports instructor, teaching scuba diving and waterboarding.
Kushal’s reality TV appearances include winning “Zor Ka Jhatka: Total Wipeout” in 2011, along with participating in shows like “Mr. & Ms. TV,” “Fear Factor,” “Fun on the Run,” and “Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa season 7.”
Death
Kushal Punjabi tragically passed away on December 26, 2019, at the age of 37. He was found deceased at his residence in Bandra, Mumbai. A suicide note indicated no one was responsible for his death. Reports suggest he was dealing with marital separation and depression.
Favourite Things
| Category | Preference |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Continental |
| Beverage | Black Coffee |
| Actor | Salman Khan |
| Actress | Madhuri Dixit |
| Color(s) | Black, Grey |
| Film(s) | I Am Sam (2001), Sholay (1975), Dil Chahta Hai (2001) |
| Travel Destination | Mauritius |
Facts/Trivia
- Kushal enjoyed dancing, watching films, reading, and riding bikes.
- He was passionate about traveling and adventure sports.
- He was a professional modern jazz and hip-hop dancer, having worked as a choreographer and trainer at Shiamak Davar’s dance institute.
- He was a fitness enthusiast, regularly visiting the gym.
- He revealed in an interview that if not an actor, he would have been a pilot.
- He was an animal lover, owning a cat (Pinkypaw Punjabi) and two dogs (Mr. Snuggles and Mr. Gizmo).
- He appeared on the cover of Tri-city Calling magazine.
- He had four tattoos: Ganesh (right shoulder), his son’s name (left arm), a mask (left bicep), and one on his back.
- His close friends and family called him Kush. He was also known as “dancing daddy” and “biker boy.”
