Trigger Warning: This article discusses death, which may be distressing for some readers.
Arjun Bijlani is mourning the loss of his father-in-law, Rakesh Chandra Swami, who passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 73. He had suffered a sudden brain stroke a few days earlier and was admitted to a Mumbai hospital, where he was placed on life support. Despite efforts to stabilise him, he could not recover, leaving his family and loved ones heartbroken.
Arjun, who shared a close bond with his father-in-law, was visibly overwhelmed with grief at the cremation ground. In a deeply emotional moment, he was seen holding his young son close, gently placing a hand on the child’s head as both tried to cope with the loss. The quiet gesture reflected the weight of the moment and a father’s instinct to comfort even while grieving himself.
Several television industry colleagues came to pay their respects. Nia Sharma, a longtime friend of Arjun, was present to support the family. In a video from the funeral, she was seen consoling a family member, standing by them during the difficult time. Actors Chetna Panday and Kanika Mann were also spotted at the cremation.
Rakesh Chandra Swami is survived by his son, Nishank Swami, and his daughter Neha, who is married to Arjun Bijlani. Speaking to Hindustan Times, a close family member shared that he had been in good health as recently as December 29, 2025. The stroke came unexpectedly just as he was about to sit down for dinner, prompting the family to rush him to Bellevue Hospital.
At the time of the medical emergency, Arjun and Neha were in Dubai celebrating the New Year. They cut their trip short and returned immediately after learning about his condition.
On the professional front, Arjun was last seen on Rise and Fall, where he emerged as the winner. He reportedly took home a prize of ₹28 lakh after defeating finalists Aarush Bhola and Arbaz Patel.