Legendary director Basu Chatterjee passes away at 93

Legendary filmmaker Basu Chatterjee, who is remembered for milestone films like Rajnigandha, Chitchor and Chhoti Si Baat passed away in Mumbai on Thursday. He was 93 and the cause of his death is cited as age-related ailments.

Chatterjee’s death was confirmed by filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who is also the president of Indian Film and TV Directors Association. “I am extremely grieved to inform you all the demise of Legendary Filmmaker Basu Chatterjeeji. It’s agreat loss to the industry. Will miss you Sir. #RIPBasuChaterjee,” tweeted Pandit. 

Chatterjee was a pioneer of the seventies middle-of-the-road cinema that was a precursor of what is known as content-driven multiplex fare today. Along with Hrishikesh Mukherjee, he ushered the small-to medium-budget entertainer of the era that highlighted the everyday stories of common people.

In this genre of film was also born the realistic, guy-next-door-hero who stood as an alternative to the larger-than-life male protagonist of masala cinema of the era, typified best by Amol Palekar in films like Chhoti Si Baat (1975), Chitchor (1976), Rajnigandha (1974) and Baton Baton Mein (1979).

Chatterjee also made TV serials like Byomkesh Bakshi and Rajani, the two iconic serials of the Doordarshan.

Among Chatterjee’s other best-known films are Piya Ka Ghar (1972), Khatta Meetha (1978), Shaukeen (1982), and Chameli Ki Shaadi (1986).

His last directed film was Gudgudee in 1997, starring Anupam Kher and Pratibha Sinha, which failed to do much at Box Office.

Born in Ajmer, Rajasthan, on 10 January, the noted director is survived by two daughters.

With agency inputs