“Death is not the opposite of life, but a part of it.” – Haruki Murakami.
It is the inevitable truth, which no one can run away from. Though, it hurts to see someone passing away, be it a family member, friend, or someone famous. Speaking of someone famous, renowned Bollywood producer-director, Johnny Bakshi passed away on Saturday. He died in a hospital in Mumbai.
The news of his demise first reached to indianexpress.com. Johnny’s friend, producer Amit Khanna talked to the news publication and confirmed it. He said :
“Johnny was taken to the hospital as he complained of breathlessness. He was diagnosed with pneumonia and was also tested for COVID-19. But early morning today, even before his reports could come in, he passed away.”
Johnny’s work as a producer saw him, backing films such as Manzilein Aur Bhi Hain (1974), Vishwasghaat (1977), Raavan (1984), Mera Dost Mera Dushman (1984), Bhairavi (1996), and Kajraare (2010).
In 1994, he directed superstar Rajesh Khanna in Khudai. While he also worked as an actor in films, Haar Jeet (1990) and Papa Kehte Hai (1996).
Having worked with well-known directors and actors in the Hindi film industry, Johnny was a member of the Indian Motion Pictures Producers’ Association (IMPPA).
As the news of his death reached industry people, tributes started coming in, with director Kunal Kohli tweeting :
Saddened to hear about the passing of #JohnnyBakshi sir. Met him during my days in #PlusChannel with @MaheshNBhatt & @amitkhanna. He was a sweet helpful man. Always smiling. Part of the old guard of the film Industry. RIP sir.
— kunal kohli (@kunalkohli) September 5, 2020
On the other hand, friend Amit Khanna’s tweet read :
A friend of 5 decades filmmaker Johnny Bakshi passed away this morning. He will be missed by many whose life he touched. May his soul rest in peace
— Amit Khanna (@amitkhanna) September 5, 2020
Johnny has left the world with his son, Brando Bakshi behind. We hope that his soul rests in peace. Strength to his son in a difficult time.