RIP Raju Srivastava: Lesser known facts about Gajodhar Bhaiya

Comedian-actor Raju Srivastava, lovingly known as Gajodhar Bhaiya, breathed his last breath at the age of 58 on September 21 at AIIMS Delhi.   

He 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.

Some lesser known facts about Gajodhar Bhaiya:

• In the 80s, Raju Srivastava came to ‘Mayanagari’ Mumbai from Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh

• Srivastava’s initial days in Mumbai were not easy; he struggled a lot

• When he ran out of money, the comedian started driving a taxi to survive in one of the most expensive cities in the country

• Raju 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

• Raju was later seen in Shaktimaan, portraying the role of Dhurandhar Singh

• 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.

• From this show, he was known as Gajodhar Bhaiya-a character he made immortal. 

• 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.

• He was also seen as a contestant on Bigg Boss 3 in 2009.

• Raju Srivastava was also seen in Nach Baliye, where he participated with his better half, Shikha

• Raju was also a part of the Comedy Circus between 2007 and 2014

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