‘Sholay’ actor Viju Khote, 78, dies
Khote in ‘Sholay’. Veteran Marathi and Hindi film and stage actor Viju Khote has died early Monday morning. According to media reports, the veteran actor was suffering from multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and had undergone a bypass surgery recently. His cause of death is said to be kidney failure.
He was 78 and is survived by his sister Shubha Khote, who is also an actor. Renowned for his comedy roles, Viju Khote was famed for his role as the dacoit Kaalia in the Amitabh Bachchan-starrer Sholay.
In a career spanning around six decades, Khote worked in over 300 films, including Phir Hera Pheri, and the bumbling Robert in Andaz Apna Apna, aside from numerous television shows, including the popular Zabaan Sambhal Ke, which was an adaptation of the hit British comedy, Mind Your Language.
Tributes poured in for the veteran star with Abhishek Bachchan writing: “#VijuKhote ji, rest in love! You had so much of it to give. My condolences to his family.”
“Very sad to hear about #VijuKhote ji..He was not just an amazing actor but a very kind soul. We had worked a lot together and he was like an elder brother to me. My prayers & deepest condolences to the family,” wrote Johnny Lever.
Ajay Devgn wrote: “Actors like Viju Khote were institutions by themselves. Their large body of work will always be remembered. I’m fortunate to have worked with him on quite a few films. RIP Sir. My heartfelt condolences to the family.”
Rishi Kapoor also posted: RIP. Viju Khote. Dear friend over the years. Though much elder,we used to bike together along with sister Shobha Khote ji,when
I was young. Passionate and well informed about American films. We will miss you.”