Key Points
- Veteran Bollywood director Chandra Barot, best known for the iconic 1978 film ‘Don’, passed away on Sunday at age 86.
- Barot had been battling illness for several years and was suffering from age-related health issues.
- His classic crime thriller ‘Don’ starring Amitabh Bachchan became a cult hit and inspired multiple remakes and sequels.
- News of his passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from film industry colleagues and generations of cinephiles.
- Barot’s directing style and narrative flair left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Mumbai: The Indian film industry is in mourning as veteran filmmaker Chandra Barot, renowned for directing the 1978 blockbuster ‘Don’, has passed away at the age of 86. Barot breathed his last on Sunday morning after a prolonged battle with health complications and age-related ailments.
A Director Who Gave Bollywood an Evergreen Classic
Chandra Barot carved his name in Bollywood history with ‘Don’, starring Amitabh Bachchan in the unforgettable dual role of Don and Vijay. The film’s gripping narrative, memorable dialogues, and chart-topping music penned by Kalyanji-Anandji turned it into a phenomenon, influencing generations of filmmakers and audiences alike.
Struggles with Health in His Final Years
According to family sources, Barot had been unwell for quite some time and was under constant medical care. While he stepped away from the limelight in his later years, Barot remained a highly respected figure in the film fraternity, often remembered for his unique cinematic storytelling and his role in shaping commercial Hindi cinema.
Industry and Fans Pay Tribute
As the news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across Bollywood. Stars, directors, and producers including Amitabh Bachchan took to social media to recall his passion for cinema and the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind. Celebrities hailed Barot’s contribution in giving India one of its most iconic and repeatedly remade films.
A Timeless Legacy
The 1978 ‘Don’ not only catapulted Amitabh Bachchan to further stardom but inspired generations, with Farhan Akhtar directing blockbuster remakes in 2006 and 2011. Chandra Barot’s innovative vision, storytelling style, and cinematic sense continue to influence Bollywood even today.
Chandra Barot’s funeral will take place in Mumbai with friends, family, and industry colleagues expected to attend and pay their last respects.
