Veteran actor Deb Mukherjee, father of Ayan Mukerji, passes away at 83

Veteran actor Deb Mukherjee passed away at the age of 83 on Friday morning due to age-related ailments. His spokesperson confirmed the news, stating that he had been unwell for the past few months. His last rites will be performed today at 4 PM at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu, Mumbai. Several members of his family, along with prominent Bollywood personalities, are expected to attend the funeral.

Born on November 22, 1941, in Kanpur, Mukherjee was part of the renowned Mukherjee-Samarth family, which has had a significant presence in the Indian film industry for four generations. His father, Sashadhar Mukherjee, was a filmmaker and owner of Filmalaya Studios, producing films such as Love in Simla (1960). His mother, Satidevi Mukherjee, was the sister of legendary actors Ashok Kumar, Anup Kumar, and Kishore Kumar. His brothers included Joy Mukherjee, a leading actor in the 1960s, and filmmaker Shomu Mukherjee, who was married to actress Tanuja. His nieces are actors Kajol and Tanisha, while Rani Mukerji and Sharbani Mukherjee are also part of his extended family.

Mukherjee’s film career spanned several decades, starting with roles in the 1960s. His notable performances include Tu Hi Meri Zindagi (1965), Sambandh (1969), Aansoo Ban Gaye Phool (1969), and Abhinetri (1970). He appeared in supporting roles in Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki (1978), Baaton Baaton Mein (1979), and Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992), where he played the sports coach of Rajput College. His later films included Gudgudee (1997) and a cameo in Kaminey (2009).

Mukherjee was married twice. His daughter, Sunita Mukherjee, from his first marriage, is married to filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker. His son from his second marriage, Ayan Mukerji, is a well-known director known for films like Wake Up Sid (2009), Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013), and Brahmāstra (2022). He was also a key organizer of the North Bombay Durga Puja, a celebration attended by many Bollywood celebrities.

His passing marks the end of an era for the Mukherjee-Samarth family, which has played a crucial role in shaping the Hindi film industry. His contributions to Indian cinema, both as an actor and as a part of Bollywood’s most influential film lineage, remain a significant part of his legacy.