Vikas Sethi, a name that evokes fond memories for fans of Indian television from the 2000s, passed away at the age of 48 following a sudden cardiac arrest. His untimely demise on September 8, 2024, left the Indian television industry and his fans in shock. Known for his roles in popular TV serials such as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahiin To Hoga, and Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Vikas had become a household name in India. His career, personal life, and impact on his co-stars and fans are a testament to his talent, warm personality, and versatility as an actor.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in 1976, Vikas Sethi hailed from a humble background and was drawn to the world of acting from a young age. His passion for the performing arts led him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Vikas made his debut in the early 2000s, a period when Indian television was experiencing a massive boom in family-oriented drama series.
His early roles were small, but his striking screen presence quickly caught the attention of casting directors. His big break came when he was cast in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, one of the most iconic TV shows in Indian history, produced by Ekta Kapoor. Vikas played a crucial role in the show and became a beloved character for fans.
Stardom with Ekta Kapoor’s Serials
The turning point in Vikas Sethi’s career came with Ekta Kapoor’s Kahiin To Hoga (2003-2007). In this show, Vikas portrayed the character of Swayam Shergill, a manipulative and complex figure who left a lasting impact on viewers. His ability to switch between charming and conniving was remarkable and showcased his range as an actor. This role earned him critical acclaim, and he became one of the most sought-after actors in Indian television.
Following the success of Kahiin To Hoga, Vikas appeared in another hit show from the Balaji Telefilms banner, Kasautii Zindagii Kay. As Prem Basu, he played the rebellious son of the show’s lead couple, Anurag and Prerna Basu. His portrayal of Prem, a character with shades of grey, won him accolades and cemented his status as a versatile actor.
These serials were not just stepping stones in his career; they made him a household name. Vikas Sethi was the face of the young, dynamic generation of actors who could captivate the audience with their talent and charm.
Film Career: A Brief But Memorable Stint
While Vikas Sethi was predominantly known for his work in television, he also appeared in a few Bollywood films. His most notable performance was in the 2001 blockbuster Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Although his role as Robbie, a potential love interest of Kareena Kapoor Khan’s character, was small, it was well-received by both critics and the audience. He later appeared in Oops! and Deewanapan, but it was his television work that continued to define his career.
Personal Life: Family and Fatherhood
Vikas Sethi was not only an accomplished actor but also a devoted family man. In 2021, Vikas and his wife Jhanvi Sethi welcomed their twin sons, a joyous moment that he shared with his fans on social media. His post about the birth of his boys reflected his love for his family: “A baby is God’s opinion that life should go on……hip hip hurry.” This sentiment captured his optimism and joy in becoming a father at 46, proving that he was as dedicated to his personal life as he was to his professional one.
Despite the spotlight, Vikas maintained a low-key personal life, focusing on his family and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. His wife Jhanvi was his constant support system, and their family was his priority. The news of his death, as shared by Jhanvi, sent waves of grief throughout the television industry.
His Sudden Demise: A Shock to All
Vikas Sethi’s death came as a shock to everyone. On the night of September 7, 2024, Vikas and his family were in Nashik attending a family function when he suddenly fell ill, experiencing vomiting and loose motions. According to his wife, Jhanvi, he refused to go to the hospital and opted for home treatment instead. Tragically, Vikas passed away in his sleep that night. The next morning, Jhanvi discovered that he had succumbed to a massive heart attack. His body was later taken to Cooper Hospital in Mumbai for post-mortem.
His passing left an unfillable void in the lives of his family, friends, and fans. Co-stars and industry peers expressed their grief and shock over his sudden demise.
Tributes from Friends and Co-stars
One of the most poignant aspects of Vikas Sethi’s legacy is the love and respect his co-stars had for him. Actors Hiten Tejwani and Delnaaz Irani, who worked closely with Vikas in various shows, were among the first to express their sorrow and share fond memories of him.
Hiten Tejwani, who shared the screen with Vikas in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kasautii Zindagii Kay, remembered him as a true friend. “We had a great rapport and since we were doing two shows together, we’d hang out post work. He was a mast-khush kind of person. Doston ka dost and always there for you,” Tejwani said in an emotional statement. The two actors developed a close friendship over the years, bonding over shared experiences and memories from their time on set.
Delnaaz Irani, who worked with Vikas on the reality show Zara Nachke Dikha in 2008, also expressed her disbelief at his passing. She remembered him as a “wonderful and warm person” and noted how handsome and talented he was. Delnaaz shared that they had recently reconnected while shooting an ad together, and despite the years apart, their camaraderie remained strong. “He seemed hale and hearty, but as they say, life is unpredictable,” Delnaaz said, highlighting the unpredictability of life and the fragile nature of existence.
A Legacy That Will Live On
Vikas Sethi’s contributions to Indian television will not be forgotten. He was a part of an era that defined Indian soap operas, and his characters in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Kahiin To Hoga, and Kasautii Zindagii Kay remain etched in the memories of millions of viewers. His performances brought a unique blend of charm, intensity, and relatability to the screen, making him a beloved figure in the Indian entertainment industry.
Even in his final days, Vikas continued to connect with his fans through social media, sharing glimpses of his life as a father and a son. His last post, dedicated to his mother on Mother’s Day, showed the deep love and respect he had for his family. The post was a heartfelt tribute: “HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY.. ❤❤ MOM LOVE YOU,” he wrote, with a video that celebrated his bond with his mother.
Conclusion
Vikas Sethi’s untimely death at the age of 48 is a reminder of the unpredictability of life. He may have left the world too soon, but his work and legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of his fans and the television industry. His career, spanning two decades, showcased his versatility, charm, and dedication as an actor. Whether playing complex, villainous characters or charming love interests, Vikas brought depth and authenticity to every role he undertook.
His colleagues and fans will remember him not just for his work, but for the warm, kind-hearted person he was off-screen. As the entertainment industry mourns his loss, Vikas Sethi’s legacy as a beloved actor and devoted family man will remain etched in the annals of Indian television history. May his soul rest in peace.
