A STAR FOR ALL SEASONS
Family urges Fans to Follow current social distancing rules while mourning the actor
Bollywood mourned a second loss in as many days as celebrated actor Rishi Kapoor, whose career spanned half a century, died Thursday aged 67 after a prolonged struggle with cancer. His death came as a severe blow to the Hindi movie industry, which was already reeling from the passing of Irrfan Khan, one of the country’s most feted actors, aged 53, on Wednesday.
“Our dear Rishi Kapoor passed away peacefully... today after a two-year battle with leukemia,” his family said in a statement. “He remained jovial and determined to live to the fullest right through two years of treatment across two continents.”
Kapoor’s family urged fans, who under normal circumstances would have been expected to pour into the streets to mourn him, to follow novel coronavirus social distancing rules. “There are numerous restrictions around movement and gathering in public. We would like to request all his fans and wellwishers and friends of the family to please respect the laws that are in force,” the family said.
Born September 4, 1952, into the prolific Kapoor dynasty — which has produced four generations of actors including his son, Ranbir — he made his debut in the 1970’s epic Mera Naam Joker. He received the National Award for best child actor for his performance in the film, which his father Raj produced, directed and starred in.
But it was his later persona as a romantic lead that won him legions of fans. As Kapoor grew older, the romantic roles ceased, allowing him to display greater versatility. He terrified audiences as a human trafficker in 2012’s Agneepath and won applause for his portrayal of a cantankerous porn-watching grandfather in 2016’s Kapoor & Sons.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was anguished by Kapoor’s death. “Multifaceted, endearing and lively... this was Rishi Kapoor Ji. He was a powerhouse of talent,” Modi tweeted.
After being diagnosed with cancer in 2018, he sought treatment in New York, but was looking to resume work shortly with plans to film a remake of the 2015 Hollywood film The Intern.
He was forced to return to hospital this month, where, his family said, “the doctors and medical staff... said he kept them entertained to the last”.
Rishi Kapoor’s last rites were performed at the Chandanwadi crematorium in Mumbai yesterday evening. Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif Ali Khan and Abhishek Bachchan were among those who turned up to offer support to Ranbir. His daughter, Riddhima Kapoor, was also reportedly granted permission to drive from New Delhi to Mumbai, to be with the Kapoors.
Akshay Kumar
Today is the saddest day for me because have lost a family member, a friend, a brother and a person who showed me to live life with a smile no matter what. I will miss you Chintu sir.” Sanjay Dutt
Rajinikanth
Priyanka Chopra
Madhuri Dixit Nene
It seems like we’re in the midst of a nightmare...just heard the depressing news of #RishiKapoor ji passing away, it’s heartbreaking. He was a legend, a great costar and a good friend of the family. My thoughts and prayers with his family.”
Heartbroken ... Rest In Peace ... my dearest friend #RishiKapoor”
My heart is so heavy. This is the end of an era. #Rishisir your candid heart and immeasurable talent will never be encountered again. Such a privilege to have known you even a little bit.
I’ve had the honour of working with Rishi ji. A larger than life person, so outspoken yet so warm. We have lost a brilliant actor today. Still can’t believe it.. absolutely heartbroken. My prayers are with the family during this tough time.”