Digital News Guru Mumbai Desk:
A Cinematic Legacy Comes to a Close: The Life and Passing of Prem Sagar
Mumbai, August 31, 2025 — Indian entertainment mourns the loss of a quiet powerhouse. Prem Sagar, esteemed cinematographer, producer, and the son of the legendary Ramanand Sagar, passed away in Mumbai after a prolonged illness. He breathed his last at 10 a.m., and his cremation took place at 3 p.m. at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Juhu.
A Torchbearer of Sagar’s Legacy
Prem Sagar carved his place in Indian cinema and television by carrying forward the vision of the Sagar family. An alumnus of the 1968 batch of FTII, Pune, he cultivated a strong technical foundation that became the bedrock of his illustrious career.
Early in his journey, Prem worked as a cinematographer on films like Charas and Lalkar, imprinting his visual signature on Indian cinema. He also acted in films, bringing early versatility to his creative pursuits.
His legacy, however, flourished behind the camera. As director and producer, Prem played a pivotal role in shaping some of Indian television’s most enduring mythological and fantasy series under Sagar Arts, including Alif Laila, Vikram aur Betaal, Ramayan, Shri Krishna, Sai Baba, and Chandra Gupta Maurya.
Honouring His Contributions
Industry peers offered heartfelt tributes. Arun Govil, who portrayed Lord Ram in Ramayan, posted on social media:
“The news of the demise of Shri Prem Sagar ji… is deeply saddening. We pray to Lord Shri Ram to grant the departed soul a place at His divine feet and strength to the family. Om Shanti.”
Sunil Lahri, known for his role as Lakshman, also expressed his mourning:
“Absolutely shocking news—we lost Prem Sagar ji… Om Shanti.”
Their words echo the immense respect Prem Sagar commanded—a creative spirit whose presence behind the scenes shaped unforgettable storytelling.
A Career of Vision and Craft
Throughout his life, Prem Sagar was recognized for his technical artistry in cinematography. He received multiple awards in the field, including recognition from the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain. His eye for composition brought depth and gravitas to every frame he captured, whether in mythological narrations or studio productions.
His directorial ventures were equally impactful. He helmed television series such as Jai Maa Durga, Mahima Shani Dev Ki, and Jai Jai Jai Bajrang Bali, enriching the genre with devotional storytelling.
A Personal Chapter: Championing a New Ramayan
In recent years, Prem had spoken about reviving Ramayan, not as a replica of his father’s epic, but as a fresh exploration from new angles—possibly Sita’s or Hanuman’s perspective, or even through the eyes of characters like Kakbhushundi. He envisioned a narrative rich in emotion, complexity, and deeper resonance. Such plans underscored his drive for innovation and legacy-building beyond what had gone before.
A Life Remembered with Respect
Despite being the son of an iconic filmmaker, Prem Sagar remained content working behind the camera. His humility and devotion to craft were widely acknowledged: he “grew up surrounded by stories, cinema, and devotion”—yet chose to let visuals, not fame, define his path.
At a Glance: Prem Sagar’s Journey
| Aspect | Highlights |
| Passing | August 31, 2025; age approx. 84; 10 a.m. in Mumbai; cremation at 3 p.m. |
| Education | FTII, Pune – 1968 batch |
| Contributions | Cinematographer (Charas, Lalkar) Producer/Director (Vikram aur Betaal, Alif Laila, Mahima Shani Dev Ki) Vision for new Ramayan project |
| Recognition | Awards in cinematography; Royal Photographic Society affiliation |
| Tributes | Arun Govil, Sunil Lahri |
Prem Sagar’s passing is indeed the closing of a chapter. But his frames, stories, and vision continue to inspire—casting light on Indian mythology, devotion, and artistic craftsmanship. He leaves behind a strong legacy, and a family—survived by his wife, two daughters, and son—that will continue to honor the narrative he helped weave.
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