Veteran filmmaker and renowned acting mentor M.M. Baig was found dead at his Mumbai residence earlier this week in February 2026, at the age of 70. M.M. Baig, who had been unwell and living alone, had not been seen for several days, prompting concerned neighbours to contact authorities after noticing a foul smell. Police entered his home and discovered his body, which was then sent to Cooper Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Some reports pointed to a heart attack; the official cause of death has not been confirmed by his family.
M.M. Baig leaves behind a significant legacy in the Indian film industry, both as a director and as a mentor to many aspiring actors. He directed the 1994 film Chhoti Bahu and worked alongside celebrated filmmakers such as J. Om Prakash and Rakesh Roshan on films like Kala Bazaar, Kishen Kanhaiya, and Aadmi Khilona Hai. Baig was also the father of Baby Guddu (Shahinda Baig), who became a child artist in the 1980s.
His influence extended to some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. Hrithik Roshan, who was mentored by Baig at the age of 18, paid tribute to his former teacher on social media.
Hrithik Roshan took to Instagram and wrote, “My dear Baigji, I will forever be grateful to you for being the teacher I so needed at the start of my journey as an actor. You helped me gain confidence over my speech and delivery … you were instrumental in shaping the actor in me. For helping me overcome my shyness , at the same time empowering my vulnerability. I was lost. And you helped me find my way . Back when I was only 18years old. I still practice the lessons to this day. I will miss you.
Rest in peace, my teacher – M.M Baig. ❤️
My thoughts and prayers for the Baig family. “
