Bollywood Director Ashwni Dhir’s Son Dies in Tragic Car Crash in Mumbai
Bollywood director Ashwni Dhir, known for Son of Sardaar, is mourning the untimely loss of his 18-year-old son, Jalaj, in a devastating car accident in Mumbai. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning near Vile Parle when the car, carrying Jalaj and three friends, collided with a divider at an alleged speed of 120–150 mph.
Jalaj and his friend, Sarthak Kaushik, succumbed to their injuries, while the driver, Sahil Mendha, and another passenger survived with minor injuries. Preliminary investigations suggest Sahil was under the influence of alcohol, and he has since been arrested.
The group had reportedly spent the night at Jalaj’s Goregaon residence, playing video games and later dining in Bandra, before setting out on the ill-fated drive.
Jalaj, who had recently completed his schooling, was preparing to accompany his father to the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. He had been passionate about cinema, sharing a close bond with his father’s filmmaking career.
The accident has sent shockwaves through Bollywood, with condolences pouring in from industry colleagues and fans alike. Many have called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and awareness about the dangers of speeding and drunk driving.
The tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the perils of reckless driving and the irreparable pain it leaves behind for grieving families.