As the year draws to a close, it's a time to reflect not only on the milestones achieved but also on the notable individuals from India who left us in 2025. Their contributions spanned various fields, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's cultural, political, and social fabric.

The world of cinema and arts experienced significant losses. Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, fondly known as "Bharat Kumar" for his patriotic roles, passed away on April 24 at the age of 87. His films like Upkar, Shaheed, and Purab Aur Paschim became iconic, blending nationalism with compelling storytelling. The entertainment industry also mourned the loss of celebrated actor Satish Shah, known for his impeccable comic timing and performances in Sarabhai vs Sarabhai and numerous Bollywood films; he died on October 25 at the age of 74. Govardhan Asrani, the evergreen comic legend, best known for his role as a jailer in Sholay, died on October 20 at the age of 84.

The music industry grieved the loss of Zubeen Garg, a renowned singer and musician celebrated for his contributions to Assamese, Bengali, and Hindi music, including the hit song "Ya Ali". Garg passed away on September 19 at the age of 52 following a medical emergency while scuba diving. Sulakshana Pandit, a singer and actress from a musical family, also passed away on November 6 due to cardiac arrest. Eminent flautist Dipak Sarma, known for his contributions to Indian classical music, died on November 3 at the age of 57.

The year also marked the passing of Shefali Jariwala, an actor and model known as the "Kaanta Laga girl," who died on June 27 at the young age of 42 after a suspected cardiac arrest. Bodybuilder and actor Varinder Singh Ghuman passed away on October 9 after suffering a cardiac arrest. Marathi theatre and film actor Jyoti Chandekar passed away on August 16 at the age of 68. Television and Marathi series actor Priya Marathe died on August 31 at the age of 38 after a battle with cancer. Veteran actor Rakesh Pandey passed away on March 21 due to cardiac arrest. Sandhya Shantaram, known for her roles in classic Indian cinema, died on October 4 at the age of 94. Kamini Kaushal, a veteran actress, died on November 14 at the age of 98. Dharmendra, a veteran actor known for his role in Sholay, died on November 24 at the age of 89.

In the political sphere, Shibu Soren, a key tribal leader and founder of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, passed away in December after a prolonged illness. His advocacy for tribal rights and leadership in regional politics earned him respect. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani tragically died in a plane crash in Ahmedabad in December. Satyapal Malik, a political and administrative figure, also passed away this year.

Additionally, Sunjay Kapur, a prominent industrialist, died after suffering a heart attack at the age of 53.

These individuals, each unique in their own right, have left behind legacies that will continue to inspire and influence generations to come. Their contributions to Indian society will be remembered and cherished.