Acting legend Shashi Kapoor, who appeared in over 100 feature films, passed away this evening at Mumbai's Kokilaben Hospital leaving his fans with memories of the all the roles he immortalised in hits such as Deewaar and Kabhi Kabhie.
The veteran Bollywood actor was suffering from prolonged illness. He was 79. "He had kidney problem for several years and was on dialysis," his nephew, actor Randhir Kapoor said.
Born as Balbir Raj Prithviraj Kapoor, the iconic film star was the youngest son of Prithviraj Kapoor, and brother of Raj Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor. Shashi Kapoor made his Bollywood debut in 1961, as the lead actor, in the film Dharmputra, though his acting career actually started as a child artiste in the 1940s.
In 1961 itself, the talented actor began working in English films too. He went on to immortalise characters like Prem Sagar in The Householder and Sanju in Shakespeare-Wallah, respectively.
Through the 1970s and 80s, Shashi Kapoor captured stardom with films such as Sharmeelee, Pighalta Aasman, and others.
Kapoor acted in more than one hundred films, taking the lead role in 61.
The actor, who immortalised several dialogues, including "Mere paas maa hain" (Deewaar, 1975) will be cremated tomorrow morning (December 5).
He is survived by two sons, Kunal and Karan, and a daughter, Sanjana, who takes care of the Prithvi Theatre, one of Mumbai's best known theatres. It was built by Shashi Kapoor and his wife Jennifer Kapoor in memory of Prithviraj Kapoor.
His death has left many devastated. Tributes have been following in for the legend on Twitter.
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.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 4, 2017
With his impressive talent and inimitable mannerism actor Shashi Kapoor charmed a generation of Indians. He was a fine actor and a wonderful human being. Saddened to learn of his demise. May his soul rest in peace.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 4, 2017
#RIPShashiKapoor ...the most charming and enigmatic actor ever...a gentleman movie star! His legacy in film and theatre is exceptional...thoughts and prayers with the family....his work will always live on... pic.twitter.com/U9jsAGxGET
— Karan Johar (@karanjohar) December 4, 2017
So sad to hear the passing of the most charming #ShashiKapoor ji, really saddened by this news. Pray for his soul to find peace. Thank him for the amazing memories he gave us all. Condolences to the Kapoor family. #RIP SIR.
— arjun rampal (@rampalarjun) December 4, 2017
RIP Shashi saab ???? the most charming and handsome man bollywood has ever seen. Loved so many of… https://t.co/5bTV5mtfhV
— Arbaaz Khan (@arbaazSkhan) December 4, 2017
We are deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor #ShashiKapoor.The Deewaar (1975) star was also memorable in Merchant-Ivory productions The Householder (1963) and Shakespeare Wallah (1965).He worked as a child actor in Raj Kapoor films Aag (1948) and Awaara (1951). pic.twitter.com/DakQQuFIvB
— NFAI (@NFAIOfficial) December 4, 2017
I feel a part of me is gone. A great actor, smart, cosmopolitan, impossibly handsome & w/a name that was often confused w/mine. (My office got two calls from journalists today about my reportedly serious ill-health!) I will miss #ShashiKapoor. Condolences2his family&all his fans pic.twitter.com/fSz3jafPZJ
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 4, 2017
One of my favourites passed away today. A handsome charming gentleman who entertained us for 40+ years. His endearing smile will be embedded in my memories.RIP #ShashiKapoor pic.twitter.com/wXM0YSoQ45
— Jaaved Jaaferi (@jaavedjaaferi) December 4, 2017
The legend will live on in our hearts as the "Shaan" & "Vijeta" of a golden age of the Indian film industry.#ShashiKapoor, with his unforgettable smile, is no more in person with us. Our prayers and condolences are with his family. pic.twitter.com/GKlgfPZbyK
— Rajyavardhan Rathore (@Ra_THORe) December 4, 2017
Sad to hear the passing away of legendary actor #ShashiKapoor. He will always be remembered for his charming presence on screen and contribution to Indian Film Industry.May his soul Rest in peace
— Rajiv Pratap Rudy (@RajivPratapRudy) December 4, 2017
Deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor Shri Shashi Kapoor ji. Indian cinema has lost an icon today. My prayers are with the bereaved family.
— Vasundhara Raje (@VasundharaBJP) December 4, 2017
Remembering #ShashiKapoor: Some striking film posters featuring the legend. pic.twitter.com/pPs34m3ORP
— NFAI (@NFAIOfficial) December 4, 2017
We will miss you ... pic.twitter.com/ZMGoFk0DCM
— Azmi Shabana (@AzmiShabana) December 4, 2017
Our generation can not forget the iconic dialogues and performance of Shashi Kapoor Ji in #Diwar. You will be missed Shashi Ji. #RIPShashiKapoor #ShashiKapoor pic.twitter.com/R5TZM5fSO1
— Manjinder S Sirsa (@mssirsa) December 4, 2017
One of the most iconic dialogues ever, #ShashiKapoor . You will continue to inspire future generation of actors. Condolences to family and friends. pic.twitter.com/QBoLf7IlPb
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) December 4, 2017
Saddened by the passing away of legendary & charming Actor Sashi Kapoor. His demise is an end of an era & a big loss to the film world. May his soul rest in peace. Heartfelt condolences to his family members.
— Prakash Javadekar (@PrakashJavdekar) December 4, 2017
— Aamir Khan (@aamir_khan) December 4, 2017
You won't be forgotten. Rest in peace #ShashiKapoor ji.
— Ajay Devgn (@ajaydevgn) December 4, 2017