Raju Srivastava dies days after cardiac arrest

Famed Indian actor and comedian Raju Srivastava has died at the age of 58, according to his family.

Doctors told Indian media that the cartoonist was being treated for sepsis when he went into cardiac arrest and died on Wednesday morning.

On August 10, Srivastav collapsed while exercising in the gym and was rushed to the hospital. He reportedly fell with chest pain from cardiac arrest.

His nephew Kushal confirmed the doctor’s report that the comedian went into cardiac arrest again Wednesday morning, killing him.

Srivastava left behind his wife Shikha and children Antara and Ayushman.

“He passed away at 10.20am. All his family are currently at AIIMS in Delhi,” a Srivastava representative told Indian Express.

A representative of AIIMS Hospital said Srivastava was admitted last month after suffering a cardiac arrest in August, had an angioplasty and was put on a ventilator.

“He was in a coma for two weeks,” they said. “Some movement in his leg was observed a few weeks ago, but he couldn’t recover.”

According to Dr. Sandeep Mishra, professor of cardiology at AIIMS, Srivastava has been under observation and is receiving life support, balanced ventilation and cardiac support.

“He passed away as a sepsis infection spread through his body,” the doctor revealed. “We also learned he went into cardiac arrest again this morning.”

Many fans, colleagues and friends paid tribute to the comedian following his death.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote: “Raju Srivastava brightened our lives with laughter, humor and positivity. He left us too soon , but will continue to live on in the hearts of countless people because of his prolific work over the years. His passing is heartbreaking. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Comedian Vipul Goyal wrote: “RIP LEGEND #rajusrivastava. Thanks for entertaining and inspiring a generation of comedians.”

Bollywood star Hritik Roshan wrote: “Always in our hearts. Rest in peace Mr Raju Srivastava. My condolences to the family.”

Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir wrote: “Sorrowful at the passing of Shri Raju Srivastava! He will be remembered for captivating audiences with his unique observational style and clean comedy. Om Shanti.”

Srivastava started his stand-up comedy career as a talent show contestant Great Indian Laughter Challenge And won the third place, and then participated in the spin-off, Great Indian Laughter Challenge – Championin which he received the title of “King of Comedy”.