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Jaswinder Bhalla
Indian actor and comedian (1960–2025) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Jaswinder Bhalla (4 May 1960 – 22 August 2025) was an Indian actor and comedian known for his work in Punjabi cinema. He gained prominence with his debut in the television series Chhankata (1988), which marked the beginning of his career in the entertainment industry. His performance in the show earned him significant recognition. Bhalla made his film debut in the Punjabi movie Dulla Bhatti (1998).
Bhalla was widely celebrated for his comedic roles in various Punjabi films, where his humor and wit earned him a dedicated following. In addition to his work in India, he expanded his reach internationally, performing in countries such as Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. One of his notable international performances was in the comedy show Naughty Baba in Town, which was well-received by most audiences abroad.[1]
Throughout his career, Jaswinder Bhalla became a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, remembered for his unique comedic style and contributions to the Punjabi entertainment scene. He died on 22 August 2025, following complications from a stroke.
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Early life
Bhalla was born on 4 May 1960 in the village of Kaddon, within the city of Doraha, Punjab.[2] His father, Bahadur Singh Bhalla, was a teacher at a Primary School in the nearby village of Barmalipur. Bhalla received his early education at the Senior Secondary School in Doraha.[3]
Education
Bhalla did his B.Sc. and M.Sc. from Punjab Agricultural University,[4] and his Ph.D. from Chaudhary Charan Singh Post Graduate College, Meerut. He began his career as an assistant professor in the PAU, and was serving as a Professor and Head, Department of Extension Education when he retired from active service on 31 May 2020.[5][6]
Bhalla completed his Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from Punjab Agricultural University before earning his Doctorate of Philosophy from Chaudhary Charan Singh Post Graduate College in Meerut.
He began his academic career at Punjab Agricultural University, where he was appointed Assistant Professor. He eventually became Professor and Head of the Department of Extension Education. He retired on 31 May 2020.
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Career
Summarize
Perspective
Bhalla and two of his classmates were selected for All India Radio in 1975. While studying at Punjab Agricultural University, Bhalla became known for his comedic performances during university events. In 1988, he began his professional career, partnering with fellow performer Bal Mukand Sharma to release the audio cassette Chhankata.[7] Both Bhalla and Sharma had been classmates at Punjab Agricultural University.[8] The term "chhankata" originated from an annual college show that Bhalla and Sharma had performed, which later became the name of their popular comedy series. Their work caught the attention of Doordarshan, particularly after they performed at the Professor Mohan Singh Mela with the personal support of Punjabi author Jagdev Singh Jassowal. Over the years, Bhalla released more than 27 audio and video albums as part of the Chhankata series. In addition to Bal Mukand Sharma, Neelu Sharma also featured in the series. Starting in 2002, Chhankata was released in video cassette format as well.[9]
Popular characters
In the Chhankata series, Bhalla portrayed a variety of characters representing different aspects of Punjabi society.[10] One of the key roles he played was Chacha Chatar Singh, an elderly villager who discusses Punjab's politics, the differences between rural and urban life, and shares jokes about everyday life. Bhalla also portrayed Bhana, a young man from Chatar Singh's village who has moved to the United States and is featured as a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) in the series. Another character, JB, is the son of Chatar Singh. Additionally, Bhalla played the character of Taya Fumhan Singh, another notable figure in the series.[11]
Film career
Bhalla appeared in several Punjabi films, including Mahaul Theek Hai, Jija Ji, Jihne Mera Dil Luteya, Power Cut, Kabaddi Once Again, Apan Phir Milange, Mel Kara De Rabba, Carry On Jatta, Jatt and Juliet, and Jatt Airways. In many of these films, he became known for his unique catchphrases, such as Mein Taa Bhannduu Bullan Naal Akhrote, Je Chandigarh Dhaijoo Pinda Warga Taa Rehjooo, and Dhillon Ne Kaalaa Cot Aiven Ni Payeya. Bhalla noted that through his performances, he aimed to bring attention to social issues, including abortion, drug use, and unemployment.[12][13]
Other ventures
Bhalla served as the brand ambassador for Atulaya Healthcare, a prominent provider of diagnostic and imaging services in Northern India. He participated in television commercials, press campaigns, and promotional events for the brand.[14] These advertising campaigns were created and managed by Antraajaal, a branding and marketing agency based in Chandigarh, which also handled Bhalla's television advertisements and social media promotions for Atulaya Healthcare.[10]
Additionally, Bhalla was appointed as the brand ambassador for Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), where he supported the promotion of the university's agricultural research and outreach programs. Even after his retirement, Bhalla remained closely involved with PAU, helping the university connect with farmers and raise awareness about agricultural development.[15]
Controversy
In his 2003 album Chhankata, Bhalla faced criticism from certain ragi jathas, who accused him of mocking them and raised strong objections to the content. As a result, an apology was issued by the artists and producers of the album.[16] Similarly, his 2009 album Mithe Pochey provoked anger from village leaders in various Punjab villages due to its satirical portrayal of them.[17] Bhalla was also reportedly assaulted by Punjab government officials in response to his satire targeting the government.[18][19][20]
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Personal life and death
Bhalla was married to Paramdeep Bhalla, a fine arts teacher. The couple had two children, including Pukhraj Bhalla.[21]
Bhalla died at Fortis Hospital on 22 August 2025 at the age of 65, following complications from a stroke.[22][23][24][23] It was reported that Bhalla had suffered the stroke on 20 August 2025 and was admitted to the hospital shortly thereafter.[25][23][22] His remains were cremated in a ceremony on 23 August 2025 at the Balongi Cremation Ground in Mohali. Family, friends, and colleagues from the Punjabi entertainment industry gathered to pay their respects.[26][23]
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Filmography
| † | Denotes films that have not yet been released |
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References
External links
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