Veteran actor Raj Babbar has paid tribute to filmmaker Kuku Kohli, remembering him for his contribution to Hindi cinema as well as his humility, kindness and compassionate nature.
Kohli died at the age of 77 on August 25. Remembering the filmmaker, Raj said his death had left a “deep, painful void in Indian cinema”.
Sharing a photograph of Kohli, Raj recalled him as a filmmaker who carried himself with dignity and treated people with warmth and respect.
“Kuku Kohli ji has left us. His passing leaves a deep, painful void in Indian cinema. He was not only a filmmaker of note but also a man remembered for his quiet dignity, humility, and rare warmth. I remember him as gentle, respectful, and always willing to help. He carried his talent with grace and treated everyone with kindness,” Raj wrote.
The actor also highlighted Kohli’s contribution to popular Hindi cinema, particularly Phool Aur Kaante, Suhaag, Haqeeqat, Anari No. 1 and Yeh Dil Aashiqanaa.
Raj singled out Phool Aur Kaante, which marked Ajay Devgn’s acting debut and brought the actor instant recognition.
“Even in our demanding industry, he stood out for his decency and compassion. From the blockbuster Phool Aur Kaante, which launched the talented Ajay Devgn into instant stardom, to memorable films such as Suhaag, Haqeeqat, Anari No. 1, and Yeh Dil Aashiqanaa, his masterful craft left a lasting imprint on popular cinema,” he added.
Raj also offered condolences to Kohli’s wife, actor Aruna Irani, and their children, Pooja and Karishma.
Although Raj Babbar did not appear in any of Kohli’s theatrically released films, he was part of the filmmaker’s unreleased project Kohinoor, initially titled Ek Aur Kohinoor. The film was shot between 1993 and 1997.
The filmmaker’s death was also confirmed by Abhay Sinha, president of the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), who expressed his condolences.
“Sad and shocking. Director Kuku Kohli passed away today at Kokilaben Hospital. May Waheguruji bless the departed soul,” Sinha said in a statement.