In a heartbreaking turn of events, Jalaj Dheer, the 18-year-old son of renowned film director Ashwin Dheer, lost his life in a high-speed car accident in Mumbai’s Vile Parle. Known for directing popular films like Son of Sardar, Crazy 4, and Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge, Ashwin Dheer now faces an unimaginable loss due to this tragic incident.
On the night of November 22, Jalaj invited friends to his Gurugram home for a casual evening of video games. Among them were Sahil Mendha, Sarth Kaushik, and Jaden Jimmy, all aged 18. After hours of gaming, they decided to go for a drive around 3:30 a.m. on the Western Express Highway. Unfortunately, what began as a late-night adventure quickly turned fatal.
Sahil, heavily intoxicated, was behind the wheel when he lost control of the speeding car near Vile Parle. Attempting to switch lanes at dangerously high speeds, the car crashed into a road divider. The collision left Jalaj and Sarth, who were seated in the back, critically injured. Despite being rushed to nearby hospitals, both succumbed to their injuries. Sahil and Jaden, seated in the front, survived with minor injuries.
According to statements from Jaden Jimmy, Sahil had been drinking heavily before the drive. He arrived at Jalaj’s house already under the influence, around 11 p.m., and consumed more alcohol during their gathering. Initially, Jaden was driving the car, but Sahil later took over.
Witnesses report that he drove recklessly, reaching speeds of 120-150 km/h. His impaired judgment and excessive speed led to the devastating accident.Jaden’s detailed testimony was crucial in Sahil’s subsequent arrest by Mumbai Police. Sahil has been charged with reckless and drunk driving.
Ashwin Dheer is a well-known figure in Indian cinema and television, having directed hit films like Son of Sardar starring Ajay Devgn and Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge featuring Paresh Rawal. His television projects, including Lapataganj, Chidiyaghar, Neeli Chhatri Wale, and Khatmal-e-Ishq, have been beloved by audiences for years.
The untimely death of Jalaj has left Ashwin and his family in profound grief. Colleagues and fans from the entertainment industry have expressed their condolences, mourning the loss of a young life filled with potential. Jalaj’s tragic passing is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving and reckless behavior on the road.
