Veteran actor Deb Mukherjee, father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, passed away at 83 on Friday morning, leaving behind a legacy that spans generations in Bollywood. Several Bollywood celebrities gathered at Ayan's residence to pay their final respects to the beloved actor.
Among the first to arrive was veteran actress Jaya Bachchan, who shared a poignant moment with Kajol, visibly grieving the loss of her uncle. Jaya, known for her close ties with the Mukherjee family, arrived at Ayan's home on Friday afternoon. As she stepped out of her car, Kajol arrived simultaneously, and the two embraced warmly, finding solace in each other's presence during this difficult time.
The gathering also saw the presence of Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor, close friends of Ayan Mukerji. Alia, who returned from vacation, stood by Ayan's side along with her sister Shaheen Bhatt. Ranbir, who shares a deep bond with Ayan, not only paid his respects but also participated in the final rites, serving as a pallbearer.
Other notable personalities included Karan Johar, Ashutosh Gowariker, Lalit Pandit, Hrithik Roshan, Anil Kapoor, Salim Khan and Kiran Rao, reflecting the widespread influence and respect Deb Mukherjee commanded in the industry.
Born in Kanpur, Deb Mukherjee belonged to the illustrious Mukherjee-Samarth family, renowned for its contributions to Indian cinema since the 1930s. His acting career spanned decades, featuring in memorable films such as "Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar" and "Baaton Baaton Mein." His familial connections extended to legends like Ashok Kumar and Kishore Kumar, while his immediate family includes renowned actresses Kajol and Rani Mukerji.
Deb Mukherjee's passing marks the end of an era in Bollywood, leaving behind cherished memories and a profound impact on Indian cinema.