Gufi Paintal ‘Mahabharat’s Sakuni Mama’ passes away at the age of 79

KATHMANDU, June 5: Veteran actor Gufi Paintal died on Monday morning at the age of 79.

Paintal, best known for playing the role of Shakuni Mama in BR Chopra’s TV show Mahabharat (1980), died in Mumbai on Monday due to age-related health issues.

His son Harry Paintal shared a statement announcing his demise. He wrote, “With profound grief we announce the sad demise of our father Mr Gufi Paintal (Sakuni Mama). He passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by family.”

Paintal made his debut with the 1975 film Rafoo Chakkar. Following this, the actor appeared in other films, including Dillagi, Desh Pardesh and Suhaag. Paintal has also worked as a television director.

The actor is survived by his son, daughter-in-law and a grandchild.