He was known for his work in Bollywood productions; his most noted films being Haider, Raees, Ghayal Once Again, Hamari Adhuri Kahani, Mohenjodaro, Shorgul, My Father Iqbal, Force 2, Kaabil, 2016 The End and Doordarshan's Shanti.

Narendra Jha had studied ancient history for his post-graduation in JNU where he also prepared for civil services, according to a blog written by journalist and writer Avijit Ghosh (Cinema Bhojpuri, 40 Retakes), who was his junior at the central university.

The next year he was cast to play Habibur Rahman in the film Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero directed by Shyam Benegal.

[2][3][4][5][6] Jha had suffered a heart attack previously and on doctor's request had moved to Panvel in his Farmhouse with his wife.

[7] Jha died at his farmhouse in Nashik early on 14 March 2018 after suffering a massive heart attack.