Bollywood Mourns the Loss of Veteran Actor Deb Mukherjee
Veteran Bollywood actor Deb Mukherjee passed away on March 14, 2025 , at the age of 83 . The father of filmmaker Ayan Mukerji , he breathed his last in the morning after being unwell and hospitalized. News of his demise brought a wave of grief through the Bollywood fraternity, as many celebrities were seen arriving at Ayan Mukerji’s residence in Mumbai to offer their condolences.
A Celebrated Career and Illustrious Family Background
Deb Mukherjee, known for his roles in films like ‘Abhinetri’ and ‘Ek Baar Muskurado’ , hailed from the distinguished Mukherjee-Samarth family . His familial ties extend to several prominent figures in Bollywood. He was the father of director Ayan Mukerji and the father-in-law of filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker . Actresses Kajol and Rani Mukerji are his nieces, and his brother, Shomu Mukherjee, was married to Bollywood star Tanuja. His mother, Satidevi, was the sister of the legendary actors Ashok Kumar, Anup Kumar, and Kishore Kumar.
Deb Mukherjee’s career began with minor roles in the 1960s, including appearances in ‘Tu Hi Meri Zindagi’ and ‘Abhinetri’ . While he continued to act in notable films like ‘Do Aankhen’ and ‘Baton Baton Mein’ , he found it challenging to replicate the success of his brother Joy Mukherjee. Later in his career, he transitioned to supporting roles in movies such as ‘Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander’ and ‘King Uncle’ . His final screen appearance was a cameo in Vishal Bhardwaj’s ‘Kaminey’ in 2009 .
Bollywood Celebrities Pay Their Last Respects
Upon receiving the news of Deb Mukherjee’s passing, numerous Bollywood personalities rushed to Ayan Mukerji’s residence to offer their condolences. Actress Kajol , his niece, was among the first to arrive, seen supporting her mother, the veteran actress Tanuja. Jaya Bachchan , accompanied by her daughter Shweta Bachchan , also visited the residence, sharing a moment of grief with Kajol.
Close friends of Ayan Mukerji, the actor couple Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt , cut short their trip to Alibaug to be by their friend’s side. They were in Alibaug celebrating Alia’s 32nd birthday, which was on March 15th, but returned to Mumbai immediately after hearing the news. Filmmaker Karan Johar was also spotted arriving at Ayan Mukerji’s home. Other notable personalities like veteran actor Kiran Kumar and singer Shaan , along with his wife, were also present to offer their condolences. The funeral is scheduled to be held at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu on the same day, March 14th.
The passing of Deb Mukherjee marks the end of an era for a family deeply rooted in the history of Indian cinema. His contributions to Bollywood, both on and off-screen through his lineage, will be remembered.