Indian film legend Rishi Kapoor has died at the age of 67.
Kapoor who was best known for his romantic roles was hospitalized in Mumbai on Wednesday.
His brother Randhir told Indian media that he was suffering from cancer and had breathing issues, leading to his admission in the hospital.
Kapoor died on Thursday morning, a day after the passing away of fellow actor Irrfan Khan.
The Bollywood veteran was first diagnosed with cancer in 2018 and received treatment initially in the US before returning to India in late 2019. He had been hospitalized in his home country severally with a range of complications.
His family said in a statement:
He remained jovial and determined to live to the fullest right through two years of treatment across two continents.
Family, friends, food and films remained his focus and everyone who met him during this time was amazed at how he did not let his illness get the better of him.
In this hour of personal loss, we also recognize the world is going through a very difficult and troubled time. There are numerous restrictions around movement and gathering in public. We would like to request all his fans and well-wishers and friends of the family to please respect the laws that are in force.”
Inspite of his deteriorating health, Kapoor had recently announced that he would co-star with Deepika Padukone in a remake of the Hollywood hit film The Intern.
Prior to his debut as a child actor in his father’s 1970 magnum opus Mera Naam Joker, Kapoor had a cameo in the 1955 movie Agree 420 (also directed by his father).
He appeared in his first film as an adult romantic lead in Bobby (1973) helmed by his father.
Kapoor was a frequent co-star with fellow Bollywood star Amitabh Bachan, and starred in movies like Amar Akbar Anthony, Coolie and Nagina.
His most recent screen roles were in the comedy 102 Not Out (opposite Bachan) and Netflix drama Rajma Chawl.
Kapoor leaves behind his wife Neetu (a former Bollywood A-lister), his son Ranbir (also a Bollywood actor), and daughter Riddhima.
