Television actor Arjun Bijlani and his family began 2026 on a deeply somber note after the sudden death of his father-in-law, Rakesh Chandra Swami, at the age of 73 on January 1, 2026. The loss came as a shocking and emotional blow, cutting short the actor’s New Year celebrations and prompting him and his wife, Neha Swami Bijlani, to immediately return to India from their holiday in Dubai.
The family’s grief has resonated across the entertainment industry and with fans nationwide, as loved ones and colleagues extend their condolences to the grieving couple.
Unexpected Medical Emergency: What Happened
According to multiple reports, Rakesh Chandra Swami suffered a sudden brain stroke on December 29, 2025, while at home. He was quickly rushed to Bellevue Hospital in Mumbai, where doctors placed him in intensive care and put him on a ventilator in an effort to stabilise his condition. Despite the medical team’s efforts, his condition worsened over the following days, and he breathed his last on the morning of January 1, 2026.
Family members told reporters that Swami had been “fit and fine, preparing to have dinner” before the stroke struck without warning — leaving loved ones reeling from the sudden turn of events.
He is survived by his daughter Neha Swami, married to Arjun since May 2013, and his son Nishank Swami. Close relatives described the entire family as “in shock” and still trying to come to terms with the unexpected loss.
Arjun Bijlani, Neha Cut Holiday Short to Rush Home
The tragedy struck while Arjun Bijlani, his wife Neha and their son were on a New Year holiday in Dubai. Reports say the couple had just left for the vacation after spending time with family ahead of their trip. Upon receiving the news of Swami’s severe health emergency, they immediately cut short their plans and flew back to Mumbai on Tuesday, prioritising family over celebration.
The abrupt change in plans underscored the seriousness of the situation. The couple stayed by Swami’s side in hospital until his passing and have since remained in Mumbai to support family and manage funeral preparations.
A Close Bond: Arjun and His Father-in-Law
Beyond being an in-law, Swami held a special place in Arjun’s life, especially since the actor lost his own father at a relatively young age. Family insiders and media reports highlighted that Arjun viewed Swami as a father figure, offering emotional support and guidance over the years. Hindustan Times
Neha has also been vocal about her affection and admiration for her father, previously sharing heartfelt social media posts on occasions like Father’s Day, celebrating the love, strength and leadership he brought to their family. Her tribute referred to Swami as someone whose values shaped her and inspired the way she approached life and relationships.
The depth of this bond was evident not only in their family interactions but also in the emotional atmosphere during his funeral rites, where several touching moments were shared by those in attendance.
Funeral and Final Rites in Mumbai
Swami’s final rites were performed on the afternoon of January 1, 2026, at the Oshiwara crematorium in Mumbai. Close family members, relatives and friends gathered to pay their last respects in a solemn ceremony.
Videos and images shared from the funeral showed Arjun visibly emotional as he participated in traditional rites. In some emotionally powerful moments, he was seen comforting his son while mourning the loss of his father-in-law. Reports also noted that Arjun took part in the rituals, including carrying Swami’s mortal remains during the procession — a symbolic gesture of respect and love.
The gathering was described as private and intimate, in keeping with the family’s wishes during this period of grief. Close relatives and a few friends were present, observing the last rites and sharing memories of Swami’s life and legacy.
Family Reaction and Public Grief
The suddenness of the loss has left Neha, Arjun and their extended family deeply shaken. Filmmakers, television colleagues and fans took to social media to express condolences, offering messages of support to the grieving couple. Many highlighted the difficulty of losing a parent figure so unexpectedly, especially at a time traditionally associated with joy and renewal.
One social media post that resurfaced during the mourning period was from Neha’s tribute to her father on Father’s Day, in which she spoke of his unwavering love and guidance. For many followers, that tribute now resonates with deeper meaning amid the family’s loss.
Close Family Ties and Emotional Legacy
Arjun and Neha have maintained a relatively private personal life despite Arjun’s popularity in Indian television. The couple married more than a decade ago and have often shared glimpses of their family life in a grounded, heartfelt way that resonates with audiences.
Friends and relatives recall Swami’s role as a gentle yet strong patriarch, offering support, wisdom and stability to his children and extended family. His sudden passing has not only personal but emotional ramifications, especially for his grandchildren and close family members.
Arjun Bijlani’s Career and Recent Highlights
While this news focuses on a personal tragedy, it arrives during a period of professional activity for Arjun Bijlani. The actor — known for popular television shows and as a host — has been visible in recent times, including his acclaimed participation in the reality series “Rise & Fall”, where he emerged as the winner and received widespread praise.
Arjun’s career has spanned several years, with roles in various hit TV series that have earned him a loyal fanbase. Despite his fame, he has regularly emphasised the importance of family in interviews and public posts — a theme now underscored in the wake of this loss.
Star Reactions and Industry Tributes
Entertainment industry colleagues also shared their sympathies after the news broke. While many actors and media personalities did not comment publicly, several fans and followers echoed words of comfort and respect on social media platforms. Tributes often referenced the emotional images from the funeral and celebrated Swami’s presence in the lives of his children and grandchildren.
Some television stars noted the family’s resilience in dealing with year-end events, expressing hope that Arjun and Neha find strength and support in the days ahead.
Personal Reflections and Community Support
In difficult moments like these, community support can be an anchor. Many fans and admirers of Arjun Bijlani have offered words of encouragement, shared their own stories of loss and expressed hope that the family finds peace. Comments on social media ranged from simple prayers to messages about the importance of cherishing loved ones.
Family friends also recalled earlier public messages Neha shared about her father, reflecting on his kindness, strength and protective care — qualities that have now become part of the narrative of his memory.
Coping With Loss Around the New Year
The start of a new year is often a time for celebration, reflection and hope. For Arjun Bijlani and his family, however, 2026 began with grief, introspection and remembrance. Loss at any time is difficult, but when it arrives unexpectedly during a period marked by joy and togetherness, it can be especially poignant.
Public figures often experience such moments under public scrutiny — yet the outpouring of sympathy from fans around the country suggests that people appreciate the actor’s vulnerability and role as a father, husband and family man.
A Life Remembered
Though Rakesh Chandra Swami’s life spanned 73 years, his sudden absence has resonated deeply within his family. From the outpouring of affection in past social media tributes to the emotional final moments at his funeral, the signs point to a man who was loved and respected by those closest to him. mint
Whether through the personal moments he shared with his daughter and son or through the emotional images of family mourning together, his legacy lives on — especially within the hearts of his children and grandchildren.
Summary
Indian television actor Arjun Bijlani’s father-in-law, Rakesh Chandra Swami, passed away at the age of 73 on January 1, 2026, following a sudden brain stroke and medical emergency. The tragedy brought the actor and his wife Neha Swami back to India from their New Year holiday in Dubai, as they rushed to be with family. Swami’s final rites were held at the Oshiwara crematorium in Mumbai, with close family attending.
Loved ones and fans alike have shared condolences amid the couple’s grief, reflecting on Swami’s role as a supportive father and grandfather. As they navigate this difficult start to 2026, the bonding of family and community support continues to shine through.
