(This article is authored by Alar)

Suhani Bhatnagar, the talented actress who played the role of young Babita Phogat in the blockbuster film Dangal, passed away on Friday in Delhi. She was 19 years old. Suhani had reportedly met with an accident last year and was undergoing treatment at a hospital. 

Her sudden demise has left the Bollywood industry and her fans in shock and grief. Aamir Khan, who played her father and mentor in Dangal, expressed his sorrow on behalf of his production house. He said, “We are deeply saddened to hear about our Suhani passing away. Our heartfelt condolences to her mother Poojaji, and the entire family. Such a talented young girl, such a team player, Dangal would have been incomplete without Suhani. Suhani, you will always remain a star in our hearts. May you rest in peace.”

Dangal director Nitesh Tiwari also shared his condolences and said, “Suhani’s passing away is absolutely shocking and heartbreaking. She was such a happy soul, so full of life. My deepest condolences to her family.” Suhani made her debut in Dangal, which was based on the true story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters Geeta and Babita, who won medals for India at the Commonwealth Games.

Suhani played the younger version of Babita, while Zaira Wasim played the younger version of Geeta. The film was a huge success and won several awards, including  National Film Award. Suhani was praised for her performance and her resemblance to the real Babita. She also shared a great bond with her on-screen sisters Zaira, Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Sheikh, who played the older versions of Geeta and Babita. The four girls were often seen hanging out together and supporting each other.

Suhani’s fans and admirers have also taken to social media to pay tribute to the young star and offer their condolences to her family. Many have shared their favourite scenes and memories of Suhani from Dangal and wished her peace and happiness in the afterlife.

We are deeply saddened to hear about our Suhani passing away.

Our heartfelt condolences to her mother Poojaji, and the entire family 🙏🏽

Such a talented young girl, such a team player, Dangal would have been incomplete without Suhani.

Suhani, you will always remain a star in…

— Aamir Khan Productions (@AKPPL_Official) February 17, 2024