Watch UP Assembly observes 2-minute silence to pay respect to comedian

Comedian-actor Raju Srivastava who was admitted to AIIMS Delhi following cardiac arrest has passed away. He was only 58.

Srivastava was admitted to AIIMS Delhi following a major heart attack on August 10. The comedian experienced pain and collapsed while working out at a gym. For more than 40 days, he was admitted to the hospital and was on a ventilator. Recently, Srivastava’s brother Dipoo said that he was recovering slowly but was unconscious.

The Uttar Pradesh Assembly observed a two-minute silence to pay respects to Srivastava.

Watch the video here.

In the 80s, Raju Srivastava came to ‘Mayanagari’ Mumbai from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. He started his acting career with small roles in films like - Tezaab (1988), Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), and Baazigar (1993), to survive in the Maximum City until he bagged a show on Doordarshan.

In 1994, the comedian got his first big break with a Tea Time Manoranjan – a comic show - that aired on Doordarshan. The Great Indian Laughter Challenge (2005) came as a turning point in Raju’s professional life. However, Sunil Pal clinched the trophy, but our Gajodhar Bhaiya won the country's heart.

After the Great Indian Laughter Challenge Raju became a renowned and much-loved comedian in the country. His marvellous comic timing managed to tickle the funny bones of the audience every time he was on stage.

Raju Srivastava will remain in our hearts forever. Thank you Gajodhar Bhaiya, for making us laugh.