Veteran actor Ramakant Daima dies at 69
Mumbai, May 26
The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Ramakant Daayama, who passed away at the age of 69 on May 26, 2026, following a prolonged illness.
The news of his demise was shared by actor and close friend Shubhangi Latkar through an emotional social media tribute.
Remembered for his work across films, television, theatre, and digital platforms, Daayama was widely respected for bringing authenticity and emotional depth to character-driven performances. He was known for his roles in 'Chak De! India', 'Dhanak', and the acclaimed web series 'Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story.'
In her heartfelt note, Latkar described the late actor as "a truly beautiful soul" and someone she deeply admired both personally and professionally.
"Today, we lost a truly beautiful soul... and I am simply speechless," she wrote, adding, "Ramakant Daima was not just a dear friend and family friend to me, but someone I deeply admired and respected."
Recalling his personality and artistic spirit, she added, "Full of life, warmth, and energy. He truly knew how to enjoy life despite every challenge. A spontaneous dancer, a soulful singer, a brilliant actor, and for me, a wise advisor whose words always carried meaning."
Latkar also reflected on Daima's resilience during his prolonged health struggles. "He may have looked tiny in appearance, but he was one of the strongest and most courageous people I have known," she wrote.
The actor further revealed that the two had been planning to collaborate again on a Hindi play and a stage presentation of poetry.
"We had so many unfinished plans. After years, I had truly wished to work with him again. We had decided to do a beautiful Hindi play together. When I requested him, he smiled and said, 'Let me get well soon.' We had even planned to present selected beautiful poems together on stage. That dream, too, now remains unfinished," she wrote,
Concluding her tribute, Latkar wrote, "Some losses leave behind a silence that words fail to express. Today feels like one of those days. You will be deeply missed, Ramakant ji. Your warmth, your courage, your art, and your beautiful spirit will always remain alive in our hearts. May your soul rest in peace."
Daayama most recently appeared in the award-winning short film 'Thursday Special' alongside Anubha Fatehpuria.
The film was presented by acclaimed filmmakers Shoojit Sircar and Vikramaditya Motwane.
The actor was the father of actor and digital creator Yashaswini Daayama, recognised for her performances in 'Dear Zindagi' and the web series 'Adulting.'
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very sad. He was one of those character actors you don't notice at first but who hold the entire scene together. My thoughts are with his daughter and family. Hindi theatre is losing its pillars one by one.
Never heard of him until Scam 1992, but once you see his work, you can't forget it. RIP. The Indian entertainment industry has lost a true gem.
The way Shubhangi Latkar wrote about him – "a spontaneous dancer, a soulful singer" – so beautiful. It says a lot about a person when their fellow actors speak so warmly about them beyond just work. May his soul rest in peace. His legacy in theatre will live on.
So sad to hear this. It's always the character actors who bring real depth to films and we rarely appreciate them enough while they're here. The unfinished play with Shubhangi Latkar is especially touching – reminds us to cherish creative collaborations.
Honestly, the industry needs to do more to support aging actors. Many talented artists like him struggle with health issues and don't get the recognition or care they deserve. RIP sir, you were one of a kind. 😢
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