Binaiferr Kohli on passing away of Manoj Santoshi: “Every Line of His Writing Was a Masterpiece”

The television industry is mourning the loss of Manoj Santoshi, the brilliant mind behind the witty and engaging dialogues of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai. The acclaimed writer, known for his impeccable comic timing and storytelling, passed away due liver illness. Producer Binaiferr Kohli, who shared a deep bond with him, expressed her heartbreak over his untimely demise.

"Manoj was like our little child and he, Shashank ji & Harshada (our directors) & Sanjay Kohli would all meet regularly too. When I went to see him in Hyderabad, he told me, 'Now that my mum is here, I will be fine.' He adored us a lot, and it’s heartbreaking. Sanjay and Shashank ji have not taken it well."

Binaiferr revealed that she initially took Manoj to Reliance Hospital and later to Jaslok, where he was diagnosed with a liver condition that required an urgent transplant. "Our actress Shilpa Shinde has been like an angel. She took him to Hyderabad and admitted him to KIMS, as he would get a liver transplant faster there. He also underwent surgery for his intestine. It’s admirable how Shilpa looked after him," she added.

Despite the best efforts of doctors and well-wishers, Santoshi’s health continued to decline. His final wish was to return to his hometown Aligarh, where he took his last journey. "His cremation took place this morning, and we will be holding a prayer  meet. The loss is immense. He was one of the finest writers in the industry, especially for comedy, and I can say that with full conviction. Manoj was like a close family member," Binaiferr said.

She recalled the painful moments of seeing him on a ventilator. "It was heartbreaking. He was way ahead of everyone else, and every line of his writing was a masterpiece. The last time I met him was in the hospital. Lead actors had also gone to meet him in Hyderabad. The entire cast is missing him deeply."

The Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai team had planned to visit him on Sunday  but fate had other plans. "On Saturday night, we were told not to come. It is just so sad, and we don’t know how we will come to terms with this loss. Sanjay used to meet him daily, and for Shilpa, this will be especially painful as she was one of his closest friends,who took full care of him more than a family member.
He will always live in our "Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai" hearts as our most beloved, innocent, sweet member.  Binaiferr concluded.