Veteran actor Deb Mukherjee, father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, passed away today at the age of 83. He breathed his last at 9:30 AM after being unwell and hospitalized for several days. His funeral is scheduled for 4 PM today at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai.
Several celebrities, including Alia Bhatt, Shaheen Bhatt, Anil Kapoor, Karan Johar, and Salim Khan, attended Deb Mukherjee’s funeral. However, Hrithik Roshan caught major eyeballs, as the ‘War’ actor was spotted with a leg injury. Despite his condition, Hrithik made it a point to pay his last respects, demonstrating his deep admiration and respect for the late veteran actor. His presence reflected the strong bond he shared with Deb Mukherjee. He was spotted at the venue as he walked with the support of elbow crutches.
Born on November 22, 1941, in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Deb Mukherjee hailed from a distinguished film family. His father, Sashadhar Mukherjee, was a pioneering filmmaker who began his career with Bombay Talkies in the 1930s and later co-founded Filmistan Studio in 1943. He went on to establish Filmalaya in the 1950s. Deb Mukherjee’s mother, Satidevi Mukherjee, was the sister of legendary actors Ashok Kumar, Anup Kumar, and Kishore Kumar. His siblings included Joy Mukherjee, Shomu Mukherjee, Rono Mukherjee, Subbir Mukherjee, and Shibani Maulik Mukherjee.
Deb Mukherjee left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with notable films such as Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, Abhinetri, Ek Baar Muskura Do, Aansoo Ban Gaye Phool, King Uncle, Kaminey, and Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki. While he reportedly succumbed to age-related ailments, there is speculation that cancer may have been the cause of his death.
Deb Mukherjee was married twice. His first marriage resulted in a daughter, Sunita, who is married to filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker. His second marriage to Amrit Mukherjee led to the birth of Ayan Mukerji, the acclaimed director behind Wake Up Sid, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, and Brahmāstra: Part One.
His passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, but his contributions and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
