Mumbai: Prem Sagar, the esteemed son of legendary filmmaker Ramanand Sagar passed away at his residence in Mumbai. He was 81. A distinguished producer, cinematographer, and director, Prem Sagar left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and television, carrying forward the illustrious legacy of the Sagar family with humility, artistry, and devotion.
Born in 1944, Prem grew up in an atmosphere steeped in storytelling, spirituality, and cinema, shaped by his father’s visionary work. An alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune, from the 1968 batch, he honed his craft in photography and cinematography, laying the foundation for a career defined by technical brilliance and creative depth.
As part of Sagar Arts, the family’s iconic production house, Prem Sagar played a pivotal role in some of India’s most beloved television epics. He worked as cinematographer and still photographer on Ramayan (1987–1988), the cultural phenomenon that united millions of viewers across the nation, and on other timeless series such as Shri Krishna, Vikram Aur Betaal, and Alif Laila. His eye for detail and visual storytelling brought to life tales that have since become woven into the cultural fabric of India.
Beyond television, he contributed to several films, including Lalkaar, Aankhen, Charas, and Hum Tere Aashiq Hain, collaborating with stalwarts like Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Jeetendra. His directorial ventures, including Vikram Aur Betaal and Jai Maa Durga, further showcased his versatility and dedication to preserving India’s mythological and cultural narratives.
A quiet and soft-spoken craftsman, Prem Sagar preferred to let his work speak for him. He remained devoted to ensuring that his father’s vision continued to inspire future generations. His literary contribution, An Epic Life: Ramanand Sagar, From Barsaat to Ramayan, offered readers an intimate biography of his father, chronicling the struggles, resilience, and values that shaped the Sagar legacy.
His artistry earned him wide recognition, including fifteen awards as Director of Photography, the Associateship of the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain, and membership in the Artiste Federation Internationale de L’Arts Photographique, Paris. These honors reflected not just his technical mastery but also his deep commitment to visual storytelling.
Prem Sagar had been unwell for some time and was under treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai for three weeks. On doctors’ advice, he was brought home on August 30, 2025, and passed away peacefully the next morning at 10 a.m. His last rites were performed later that day at the Pawan Hans Crematorium, Juhu, Mumbai.
The news of his passing has left the entertainment fraternity and fans deeply saddened. Arun Govil, who played Lord Ram in Ramayan, expressed his grief: “The news of the demise of Shri Prem Sagar ji, son of the late Shri Ramanand Sagar ji, is deeply saddening. We pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place at His divine feet.” Sunil Lahri, who portrayed Lakshman, added: “Absolutely shocking news. We lost Prem Sagar Ji. Om Shanti.” Tributes have poured in from across the industry, remembering his humility and quiet brilliance.
He is survived by his wife, two daughters, and son, Shiv Sagar, who carries forward the family’s creative legacy as a producer.
Prem Sagar’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian entertainment. Yet his legacy—rooted in devotion, creativity, and the timeless power of storytelling—will continue to resonate through the works he helped bring to life. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his family find strength in this time of profound loss. Om Shanti.
