Veteran Actor Deb Mukherjee Dies at 83 Bollywood Grieves

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Deb Mukherjee, a veteran Bollywood actor passed away at the age of 83 this Friday, due to some age-related complications. The demise marks an end of era for Mukherjee-Samarth’s legendary family, known for the deep-routed influence of theirs in Indian cinema. The news of passing brought an outpouring of grief from the film industry, with many Bollywood celebrities visiting the late veteran’s residence to pay final respects.

Amongst those who attended the funeral, Ranbir Kapoor was one. He shared a very close bond with the son of Deb Mukherjee, filmmaker Ayan Mukherji. Kapoor along with wife Alia Bhatt returned from their vacation early, in Alibaug, to be on the side of Ayan. He even participated in final rites, as he carried Deb Mukherjee’s body as the pallbearer, showing deep friendship between 2 families.

Deb Mukherjee and his Bollywood legacy

Born in Kanpur, Mukherjee hailed from the family which significantly shaped over generations, the Bollywood industry. Satidevi, his mother, was the sister of legendary actors Anup Kumar, Ashok Kumar and Kishore Kumar. His brother Joy Mukherjee was one of the popular actors of the 60s and 70s. His older brother, Shomu Mukharjee, the filmmaker married actress Tanuja, making him uncle of Rani Mukerji and Kajol.

Throughout the career, Mukherjee acted in varied notable films, including Adhikar, Sambandh, Mai Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki, Zindagi Zindagi, Baaton Baaton Mein, and others. His contribution further extended beyond just acting, as he even played some crucial role to shape the family’s cinematic legacy.

Apart from illustrious film career

Apart from an illustrious film career, Mukherjee’s personal life was also noteworthy. He married twice, with his daughter Sunita, from the first marriage, being the wife of Ashutosh Gowariker, a filmmaker, while his son as Ayan Mukerji, from second marriage, became the successful director who’s known for movies like Wake Up Sid, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani and Brahmastra.

Bollywood Pays Tribute to the Cinema Icon Deb Mukherjee

Following the news of Mukherjee’s passing, many Bollywood celebrities arrived at his residence to offer condolences. Jaya Bachchan was the first to arrive. She comforted Kajol, while she mourned the loss of her uncle. Some other prominent figures who visited include, Anil Kapoor, Karan Johar, Hrithik Roshan, Lalit Pandit, and Kiran Rao, also paid respects.

Ayan Mukerji and Ranbir Kapoor, who share a long-standing professional and personal friendship, were seen to support one another during difficult times. Kapoor, who was on the vacation, rushed back to Mumbai, to be with Ayan, and even took part in funeral rites.

The film industry lost veterans, but Mukherjee and his contributions to cinema will continue to be remembered. The influence of his in Bollywood, both via performance and the enduring legacy of family, ensures that his name would continue to live on in the Indian film history annual.