Raju Srivastava passes away at 58: A look at some of his lesser known facts

Raju Srivastava, a popular comedian-actor, died after battling for his life for weeks at AIIMS in Delhi, his family revealed. He was 58. After suffering a heart attack on August 10, he was critically ill and put on a ventilator in the AIIMS intensive care unit (ICU) in New Delhi. While the entire country mourns his passing, here are some lesser-known information about the "King of Comedy."

Raju Srivastava, born Satya Prakash Srivastava on December 25, 1963, in Kanpur, was a well-known name in the entertainment industry, best known for his rib-tickling and thought-provoking comedy.

He rose to prominence in the entertainment industry after appearing on the comedy show 'Great Indian Laughter Challenge in 2005. Many people are unaware that he battled for decades to make a mark in show business.

Raju Srivastava made his acting debut in Anil Kapoor's Tezaab (1988). Raju also had small roles in 'Maine Pyar Kiya,' 'Baazigar,' 'Aamdani Atthanni Kharcha Rupaiya,' 'Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon,' and several other Bollywood films before seeking his luck on the reality television show.

Raju Srivastava was well-known for his fictional character 'Gajodhar,' a humorous character he created.

Raju had also appeared in popular television shows such as 'Adaalat' and 'Shaktimaan.'

Raju Srivastava enjoyed acting and mimicking in addition to stand-up comedy.

Raju Srivastava admired legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, and his films inspired him to pursue a career in the show business. Raju began his career by impersonating Big B's voice.

Raju is regarded as one of the top Hindi stand-up comedians, and he has performed across the country.

Raju Srivastava played a college kid in Shah Rukh Khan's film 'Baazigar.' In the film, a young man with a grudge against a business mogul seduces the man's younger daughter, but she soon suspects her new lover's relationship with her elder sister and his hidden agenda. Abbas-Mastan Alibhai Burmawalla directed the film. Kajol and Dalip Tahil also appeared in the film.

He was the chairman of the Film Development Council of Uttar Pradesh and one of the members who has worked tirelessly to establish a film city in the state.