Mumbai:Actor and Parsi Gujarati theatre/film artist Dinyar Contractor passed away on Wednesday morning. He was 79.

Dinyar started his acting career by doing several stage shows and became popular for his comic roles. He was seen in Bollywood films like Chori Chori Chupke Chupke, Khiladi, Badshah, Daraar and 36 China Town, Khichdi. TV shows like Khichdi, Kabhi Idhar Kabhi Udhar, Hum Sab Ek Hain, Aaj Ke Shrimaan Shrimati and many others made him a household name.

Dinyar had worked in Gujarati plays such as Tarkat, Pappa Mara Public Ltd, Bairina Be Bol, Kapat, Parke Paise Leela Laher and more.

Dinyar Contractor was honoured with the Padma Shri in January 2019.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the demise of actor Dinyar Contractor. He wrote on Twitter, “Padma Shri Dinyar Contractor was special because he spread lots of happiness. His versatile acting brought smiles on several faces. Be it theatre, television or films, he excelled across all mediums. Saddened by his demise. My thoughts are with his family and admirers.”

Padma Shri Dinyar Contractor was special because he spread lots of happiness. His versatile acting brought smiles on several faces. Be it theatre, television or films, he excelled across all mediums. Saddened by his demise. My thoughts are with his family and admirers. pic.twitter.com/yV8JswP1g1

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 5, 2019

He brought bursts of laughter with him wherever he went, he lit up the screen and our lives with his wit & charm. We will miss your presence Dinyar bhai. Rest in Peace Padma Shri Dinyar Contractor – theatre legend, actor par excellence 🙏

— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) June 5, 2019