Mumbai: Rustam-e-Hind Dara Singh, who never lost a fight in the ring, lost a protracted battle against death on Thursday morning. The veteran actor-wrestler breathed his last at 7.30 am at his Mumbai residence, in presence of his family and friends. He was 84.

The news of his death was announced by his son, actor Vindu Dara Singh; as per reports his last rites would be conducted at 2 pm today at Vile Parle.

Dara Singh had suffered cardiac arrest on July 7 and rushed was Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He underwent dialysis and was put on ventilator, however, his condition continued to deteriorate.

To respect his wish – he wanted to breathe his last at his home – the family shifted him back to their residence yesterday evening.

Dara Singh personal physician Dr Agarwal said, “Yesterday, we brought him from hospital to home…his wish was that he be at his home between his family. He passed away at 7.30 am due to cardio-respiratory arrest, he had suffered paralysis a few years back, and he also had a very rare brain disease.”

Importantly, Dr Agarwal said that the ventilator and other support systems were removed only after his death.

‘Mahabali’ Dara Singh was the undisputed champion of champions in the wrestling ring and has won many times including the world championship in 1968. He took to acting in 1962 and is best remembered for his portrayal of Hanuman in popular TV series ‘Ramayan’.

Dara Singh was also known for his generous kind nature. Affable to the extreme, he made friends easily and never misused his power even in his heydays.

India has a lost a jewel today.