Few figures in Punjabi entertainment are as beloved as Jaswinder Bhalla. As the industry marks the legendary actor and comedian’s first death anniversary this year, his absence continues to be deeply felt. Yet, his legacy lives on through his son, Pukhraj Bhalla, who is carving out a successful career while honoring the values and standards his father set.
Admired for several creative ventures, including his breakout role as Jass in the hit web series Yaar Jigree Kasooti Degree, Pukhraj has emerged as one of Punjabi entertainment’s most promising young stars. Over the years, he has balanced acting and music with ease, earning praise for projects such as Mahi Mera Nikka Jeha, Teriyaan Meriyaan Hera Pheriyan, Jinne Jamme Saare Nikamme, Haterz, and Udeekan Teriyan, along with popular tracks like Hostel Boliyan, Zaalma, Dil Haare, Countless, and Chaabiyan.
For Pukhraj, films have always been more than a profession; they have been a way of life. “There was always a filmy environment at home,” he recalls. “I grew up around films and watching shoots. I’ve had a genuine interest in cinema since childhood. Also, I hold a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Filmmaking and Production from Punjabi University, Patiala. Simply put, films are all I know.”
That lifelong connection to cinema takes on special significance with Carry On Jatta 4. In a deeply emotional tribute, Pukhraj reprises his late father’s iconic character, Advocate Dhillon, ensuring Jaswinder Bhalla remains an integral part of the fan-favorite cinematic universe. “It is a dream to be part of the franchise,” he shares. “There’s a deep sense of pride in knowing that, even in his absence, Dad remains part of the film. Audiences are experiencing his humor and screen presence once again, while also feeling the emotion of his legacy living on.”
Evidently, the role came with immense responsibility. Through a blend of performance, VFX, CGI, and AI-assisted voice technology, filmmakers recreated Jaswinder Bhalla’s presence on screen. Pukhraj performed all of his father’s scenes, a process that demanded precision and emotional strength. “Dad’s shoes are large ones to fill,” he admits. “I was nervous, but I also felt very lucky.”
Undoubtedly, Jaswinder Bhalla’s influence remains a guiding force in his son’s creative process. “Whenever I think about a scene, a dialogue, or even writing something, I often ask myself how Dad would have done it,” Pukhraj reflects. While comparisons to his father are inevitable, he approaches them with love and humility: “I have never really been compared to my dad, but now, after he’s gone, even if someone does, I’d be happy.”
As Punjabi cinema continues to evolve, Pukhraj believes its future lies in innovative storytelling. “Whenever I get a film, even if it’s a relatively ordinary story, I try to make it extraordinary through my acting,” he says. This year is shaping up to be a significant one for the actor, with Carry On Jatta 4, Yaar Jigree Kasooti Degree - The Film, mystery-crime OTT film The Statement, and Punjabi film Toona all in the mix, along with numerous other projects in the pipeline.
As he continues to build his own identity in the industry, Pukhraj remains committed to meaningful work while carrying forward a legacy that has touched generations. “I’m excited to make more space in people’s hearts,” he emphasizes, a simple yet powerful ambition that reflects both his own aspirations and the enduring spirit of the Bhalla name.
