Shashi Kapoor, an epitome of romance and charm who encouraged the top leading ladies of the ’70s and ’80s on the silver screen and captivated millions of fans, died today. He was 79.
The actor-producer took his last breath at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai.
“Yes, he has passed away. He had a kidney problem and was on dialysis for several years,” his nephew Randhir Kapoor, the son of the late Raj Kapoor, told PTI.
Randhir Kapoor said the funeral would be held tomorrow morning.
“Shashi Kapoor expired at 5.20pm on December 4 at Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai,” Dr Ram Narain from the hospital told PTI.
Born on March 18, 1938 to the illustrious and formidable theatre and film actor Prithviraj Kapoor, Shashi hit the spotlight at the age of four, acting in plays directed and produced by his father.
He made his debut as a leading man in the 1961 film “Dharmputra” and went on to appear in more than 116 films during the ’70s and until the mid ’80s. The veteran actor is well-known for his roles in films like ‘Deewaar’ (1975), ‘Satyam Shivam Sundaram’ (1978), ‘Junoon’ (1978), ‘Shaan’ (1980), and ‘Namak Halaal’ (1982).
President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of the popular actor. “Sorry to hear of the demise of Shashi Kapoor, well-known actor, with a repertoire of Indian and international films. His support for meaningful cinema as a producer and pivotal role in the theatre movement in India too are cherished. Condolences to his family,” said Kovind in a message on Twitter.
Prime Minister Modi said he was saddened by the news and recalled Kapoor’s contribution to cinema and theatre. “Shashi Kapoor’s versatility could be seen in his movies as well as in theatre, which he promoted with great passion. His brilliant acting will be remembered for generations to come. Saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and admirers,” Modi tweeted.
Union minister of information and broadcasting Smriti Irani said Kapoor’s death was “the end of an era”.
“A legend has passed away. Shashi Kapoor will remain in our hearts forever. My condolences to his loved ones and all his fans,” OfficeofRG tweeted.
In 2011, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan by the Indian government. In 2015, he became the third in his family to be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
The legendary actor was married to late English actress Jennifer Kendal, with whom he established Prithvi Theatre in 1978.
He is survived by his daughter Sanjana, and sons Kunal and Karan
