Deb Mukherjee’s Prayer Meet Sees Bollywood’s Support
Veteran actor Deb Mukherjee, father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, passed away on March 14, 2025, at the age of 83. He succumbed to age-related ailments at his residence in Mumbai. To honor his legacy, a prayer meet was held on March 18, where family members, friends, and Bollywood celebrities gathered to pay their respects.
Bollywood Celebrities Attend Deb Mukherjee’s Prayer Meet
The prayer ceremony witnessed the presence of several well-known personalities from the film industry. Bollywood actors Ranbir Kapoor, Vicky Kaushal, and Aditya Roy Kapur were among the first to arrive. A paparazzo account shared multiple videos of the celebrities arriving at the prayer meet.
Ranbir Kapoor, dressed in traditional white attire, was seen in a car before stepping out. He humbly requested the media to move back so he could roll up his car window. His somber expression reflected the grief of the moment.
Vicky Kaushal, wearing a blue shirt and denim, greeted the media with folded hands before making his way inside. Aditya Roy Kapur, also dressed in white and blue, acknowledged the paparazzi with a brief nod before entering swiftly.
Filmmaker Ayan Mukerji, deeply grieving the loss of his father, folded his hands in gratitude toward the media and thanked them for their condolences before leaving the venue.
Other prominent attendees included Sham Kaushal, Kunal Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Imtiaz Ali, and Babita Kapoor, who came together to offer their support to Ayan Mukerji and his family during this difficult time.
Deb Mukherjee’s Legacy in Indian Cinema
Deb Mukherjee belonged to the prestigious Samarth-Mukherjee family, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema. His father, Sashadhar Mukherjee, was a renowned filmmaker and the owner of Filmalaya Studios, while his mother, Satidevi Mukherjee, was the sister of legendary actors Ashok Kumar, Anup Kumar, and Kishore Kumar.
Throughout his career, Deb Mukherjee appeared in several notable films, including Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar and Adhikar. He was not only an actor but also a pivotal figure in organizing the North Bombay Durga Puja celebrations, which became an iconic event uniting Bollywood under one roof every year.
Deb Mukherjee’s Family and Personal Life
Deb Mukherjee’s personal life was deeply intertwined with Bollywood. He was married twice. From his first marriage to actress Manisha, he had a daughter, Sunita, who is married to acclaimed director Ashutosh Gowariker. His second marriage to Amrit gave him a son, Ayan Mukerji, who has carved a niche for himself in the film industry with blockbuster hits like Wake Up Sid and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.
Kajol’s Heartfelt Tribute to Her Uncle
Actress Kajol, Deb Mukherjee’s niece, took to Instagram to express her sorrow over his demise. She shared a touching post alongside a picture of them from one of their famous Durga Puja celebrations.
“I’m still adjusting to the thought of a world without him. To one of the finest men I’ve ever known. Rest in peace. You will be loved, remembered, and missed every day of my life. #debumukherji #youareloved,” she wrote.
Her words resonated with many in the film fraternity who held immense respect for Deb Mukherjee’s contribution to Indian cinema and culture.
Also Read : Punjab Health Officials Raid Momo Factory, Find Severed Dog’s Head Amid Unsanitary Conditions
Final Rites and Industry Condolences
Deb Mukherjee’s last rites were performed at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu, Mumbai, on March 14. The funeral was attended by close family members and friends from the industry, who bid farewell to the legendary actor with heavy hearts.
Ayan Mukerji, standing beside his father’s mortal remains, was seen deeply emotional as he performed the last rites. Bollywood veterans expressed their condolences, highlighting Deb Mukherjee’s role in shaping the film industry and uniting Bollywood through cultural events like the North Bombay Durga Puja.
Bollywood Remembers Deb Mukherjee
Several Bollywood celebrities took to social media to mourn the loss of the veteran actor.
Actor Anupam Kher wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Deb Mukherjee ji. His immense contribution to cinema and the way he kept the industry connected through festivals will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to Ayan and the family. Om Shanti.”
Filmmaker Karan Johar also shared his thoughts: “A true gem of the industry has left us. Deb Mukherjee ji’s warmth and kindness touched many lives. My deepest sympathies to Ayan and his family. May his soul rest in peace.”
A Loss to Indian Cinema
Deb Mukherjee’s demise marks the end of an era for Bollywood. His passion for cinema, his contribution to fostering a sense of community within the film industry, and his legacy as an actor and cultural icon will be remembered for generations.
As Bollywood continues to pay tribute to his memory, the impact of his work and his warmth as a person remain etched in the hearts of those who knew him. The North Bombay Durga Puja, which he helped build into a Bollywood tradition, will forever stand as a testament to his lasting legacy.
