Ghanashyam Nayak

Biography:

Ghanashyam Nayak (12 May 1944 – 3 October 2021) was an Indian drama, film, and television actor. He first achieved fame as a child artist, in the 1960 movie Masoom, and the song “Nani Teri Morni Ko Mor Le Gaye.” His last memorable role was of Natwarlal Prabhashankar Undhaiwala a.k.a. “Nattu Kaka” in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.

Nayak was born on 12 May 1944 in Undhai village in Mehsana district. He started as a child artist in dramas and Hindi films and gradually worked towards comedic and serious roles. He also popularly cast in Bhavai roles. He played a Bhavai actor in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. He had appeared in approximately 100 Gujarati and Hindi films and around 350 Hindi television series.

Nayak died on 3 October 2021 from a rare form of cancer. He had wanted to die with makeup on. Nayak’s funeral was conducted the next day, on 4 October 2021. His last wish was fulfilled by Vikas who had a professional makeup artist do his father’s makeup as he began his final journey towards his heavenly abode. Gujarati film Tu Rajee Re (2022) starring Nayak was released posthumously.