Actor Ananya Raj, known for films including 7 Hours to Go, The Final Exit and Ghost, has died at the age of 35. Her family confirmed the news on 16 August, nearly a month after her death, writes First Post.
According to a statement shared on her official Instagram account, Ananya died peacefully in her sleep in the early hours of 15 July.
Her family said she had been experiencing “physical and mental discomfort” for more than a year and had fought through the difficulties with strength.
Ananya’s family has not revealed the exact cause of her death.
In their statement, they said she had been dealing with physical and mental difficulties for over a year but did not disclose any specific illness or medical diagnosis.
The family remembered her as a strong and spirited person who “lived like a Queen” and said she had fought hard to overcome the challenges she faced.
Ananya’s death was not announced publicly at the time. Her family shared the news on her official Instagram page on 16 August, almost a month after she passed away.
Alongside the announcement, they shared photographs from her last rites and requested privacy as they grieved her loss.
“Bachcha, your absence will be dearly felt. We urge all of you to pray for her soul,” the family wrote, while asking for “privacy and quietitude” during the difficult period.
Ananya made her Bollywood debut with 7 Hours to Go in 2016. She subsequently appeared in The Final Exit in 2017 and Ghost in 2019.
Her work extended beyond Hindi cinema as well. She appeared in the Telugu film Thaggede Le and was associated with the trilingual project Madrasi Gang.
She also featured in several music videos released by labels including T-Series, Zee Music and Times Music.
Following the family’s announcement, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) paid tribute to the actor, describing her death as an “untimely” loss to the film industry.
“Her work, her presence and her memories will always remain a part of the Indian film industry,” the association said.
As Ananya’s family continues to mourn her loss, further details about her health or the circumstances surrounding her death remain private.
