One man who always stood up for peace between Pakistan and India despite unfavorable situations was veteran Indian actor Om Puri who is no longer among us. The 66-year-old legend passed away yesterday morning due to a massive heart attack.
One man who always stood up for peace between Pakistan and India despite unfavorable situations was veteran Indian actor Om Puri who is no longer among us. The 66-year-old legend passed away yesterday morning due to a massive heart attack.
Puri had always been a strong supporter of cross border cultural exchanges between the two countries and always said good things about Pakistan’s film industry. The last time he visited Pakistan, it was for the promotion of Nabeel Qureshi and Fizza Ali Meerza’s Actor in Law in which he essayed the role of Fahad Mustafa’s father. While his role wasn’t meaty enough, he was one of the main attractions of the film and not surprisingly it did quite well on the box office.
During his visit to Lahore as part of the film’s promotion, Puri was full of praise for the local film industry. “Be it imagination, verses or music, Pakistan film industry has it all,” he said, while speaking at a press conference. He also expressed his gratitude over the kind of response he received in Pakistan from fans who continued to shower him with affection.
“I thank you, thank this nation, for having been viewed as a friend or family member,” Puri maintained before a large number of fans who were there to catch a glimpse of him. Commenting on the relationship between the two countries, the actor noted that it is quite opposite to the way it is projected. “A few elements intend to defame Pakistan and Islam, through bomb blasts, but if we stand determined, then we can resolve any issue amicably,” he asserted.
Known for his versatility, Puri has left behind a number of memorable performances in films belonging to diverse genres. Aside from Bollywood, he also worked in Hollywood films like Viceroy’s House and A Million Rivers as well as in the Pakistani film, Actor in Law. His career spans over 45 years and his contribution to the Indian cinema is undeniable.
According to reports, Puri was also part of Kabir Khan’s upcoming film Tubelight that stars Salman Khan in the lead role. And now Tubelight will be Puri’s last contribution to the Indian film industry.
Ever since the news of his death spread, fellow actors and supporters have taken to their social media accounts to mourn his loss.
Dangal star Aamir Khan tweeted, “Very sad. We have lost one of the finest actors of Indian cinema” while Anushka Sharma wrote, “Om Puri’s talent and versatility has brought so many characters to life. An inspiration to many actors. May his soul rest in peace.”
Apart from Bollywood celebrities, Pakistani artists have also mourned the death of the legendary actor who will be remembered for his work and for his friendly demeanour.
Actor Fahad Mustafa, who shared screen space with Puri in Actor in Law tweeted, “A legend to work with & a man with his humble & loving nature won the hearts of people across the border. May his soul rest in peace.”
