India, July 16 -- V eteran actor and television producer Dheeraj Kumar passed away on Tuesday in Mumbai at the age of 79 after battling pneumonia. He had been admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and was on ventilator support at the time of his death. Best known for his roles in popular Hindi films of the 1970s and '80s, and later for creating a legacy in mythological television content, Kumar remained active in public life until recently. According to reports, just weeks before his hospitalisation, Kumar made what would be his final public appearance at the inauguration of the ISKCON temple in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. Recalling his spiritual leanings, he had spoken about Sanatan Dharma and expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, "I came here with a sense of humility. While they called me the VVIP, I believe the true VVIP is God." An actor who featured in films such as Raaton Ka Raja (1971), Heera Panna (1973), Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1975) and Shreeman Shrimati (1982), Kumar successfully transitioned behind the camera in the '90s. Through his production house, he produced popular television shows such as Om Namah Shivay, Shree Ganesh, Jap Tap Vrat and Jai Santoshi Maa. Reportedly, his cremation will take place today (Juy 16), with close relatives expected to arrive from Punjab for the final rites. HTC...