Filmmaker Ram Mukherjee, Rani Mukerji's father, dies at 84

Hindi film actress Rani Mukerji's father Ram Mukherjee, a screenwriter and filmmaker, died here early today. He was 84.

Mukherjee's wife Krishna told the IANS news agency on telephone: "He was admitted to the Breach Candy hospital since October 13. Unfortunately, his body was not responding to the treatment that well this time. His blood pressure suddenly dropped around 5 am."

In a voice choked with emotion, she said: "He is no more, everything is finished."

A statement issued on behalf of the family read: "Ram Mukherjee, respected filmmaker, beloved father and husband, is no more. He passed away on 22 October at 6 am due to natural causes. Close friends and family attended his quiet funeral at 2 pm this afternoon.

"He will be sorely missed by his wife Krishna Mukherjee, daughter Rani Mukerji, son Raja Mukherjee and the rest of the family."

Ram, one of the founders of Filmalaya Studios here, had directed films like Hum Hindustani (1960) and Leader (1964). He had also directed and produced his daughter's debut film Biyer Phool (1996).

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee mourned his death. "Saddened at the passing of veteran filmmaker Ram Mukherjee. My condolences to his family," Banerjee tweeted.

Actor Prosenjit Chatterjee tweeted: "Really sad to hear Ram Mukherjee passed away. I had an opportunity to work with him in Rakte Lekha (1992), Rakta Nadir Dhara (1994), Biyer Phool. RIP Ramda."

Rani Mukerji and husband Aditya Chopra were present at the last rites at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle (west) here. Actors Aamir Khan, Anil Kapoor and Ranveer Singh were among those who came to pay their last respects.