Mumbai: Television actor Anuj Thakur, known for shows such as ‘Dhoom Machao Dhoom’ and ‘Bandhan Saath Janmon Ka’, died at the age of 33 after reportedly suffering a seizure during sleep on October 27. His sudden death came just days after he had discussed plans for a return to television with a close friend.

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The news came to light after casting director and longtime friend Rupesh Sonar shared a tribute on Instagram on October 30. Sonar later told The Times of India that he learned from Thakur's family that the actor had suffered a seizure while asleep and died during the episode.

Sonar said he had met Thakur around 10 days before his death and was shocked when he heard the news. He visited the actor's mother and brother on October 31, when the family told him what had happened.

Mother found actor unresponsive after morning alarm

Thakur reportedly followed a regular fitness routine and would wake up at around 4.30 am every day for exercise and jogging.

On October 27, however, he did not get up when his alarm rang. His mother went to his room to wake him and found him unresponsive, according to Sonar's account of what the family told him.

Sonar said the circumstances were difficult to believe, particularly because he had met the actor only days earlier. He also recalled that Thakur had been enthusiastic about making a comeback and had spoken about future projects.

Anuj Thakur's 17-year association with Rupesh Sonar

Sonar said he had known Thakur for 17 years. Their association began in 2008 with the television show ‘Bandhan Saath Janmon Ka’, after which they worked together on several projects, including ‘Beend Banoonga Ghodi Chadhunga’.

In his Instagram tribute, Sonar remembered Thakur as a close friend who was like a younger brother to him. He also recalled witnessing the actor's struggles during his early career and following his journey in television.

"There were so many projects planned together," Sonar wrote, expressing disbelief over the actor's sudden death.

TV shows that featured Anuj Thakur

Thakur appeared in several Hindi television shows, including ‘Dhoom Machao Dhoom’, ‘Bandhan Saath Janmon Ka’, ‘Beend Banoonga Ghodi Chadhunga’ and ‘Mahisagar’. The latter aired between 2013 and 2015.

His death prompted tributes from television personalities. Actor Vaqaur Shaikh expressed shock in a comment on Sonar's post, recalling that he had known Thakur since his early days. Bigg Boss 18 contestant Yamini Malhotra also reacted with disbelief.

Thakur's sudden death has left friends and colleagues mourning an actor who, according to Sonar, had been looking forward to returning to the screen.