Filmmaker and producer, J Om Prakash, passed away in Mumbai early on the morning of 7 August 2019, due to age-related illnesses. He was 93 years old.
The news was confirmed by actor Deepak Parashar, who is the nephew of the late J Om Prakash. Writing on his social media feed, Parashar confirmed the news of the filmmaker's demise.
My dearest uncle “Mr J Om Prakash”passed away about an hour ago 😞 So saddened as he joins his friend, my Mamaji “Mr Mohan Kumar “in heaven ! Their contributions to Indian cinema is a gift they left behind for us ! Took this pic few months ago when went to see him ! Om Shanti ! pic.twitter.com/rRuODYcQ2Z
— Deepak Parashar (@dparasherdp) August 7, 2019
J Om Prakash was the father-in-law to filmmaker Rakesh Roshan, and actor Hrithik Roshan's grandfather. Hrithik is known to be quite close to his grandfather. The actor had recently shared pictures of himself with J Om Prakash, describing him as his 'Super Teacher'.
#MySuperTeacher - My Nana who I lovingly call Deda, for the lessons he has taught me at every stage of my life, which I share with my kids now. And Dr Oza, my speech therapist as a child, who taught me to accept my weakness and helped me overcome my fear of stammer. pic.twitter.com/TCw1qW3Bg0
— Hrithik Roshan (@iHrithik) July 5, 2019
Born on 24 January 1926, J Om Prakash made his debut as producer with Aas Ka Panchhi (1961), before backing hits like Aayee Milan Ki Bela (1964), Aya Sawan Jhoom Ke (1969), Aap Ki Kasam (1974) and Aandhi (1975).
The ‘A’ inspired posters of filmmaker J Om Prakash — birthday special
He was also an astute filmmaker who collaborated with Rajesh Khanna, in his peak years, for films like Aap Ki Kasam (1974), and Aakhir Kyon? (1985). The filmmaker also worked with actor Jeetendra in Apnapan (1977), Aasha (1980) and Aadmi Khilona Hai (1993).
The filmmaker was also responsible for casting Hrithik Roshan as a child artiste in his first ever major role in their home production, Bhagwan Dada (1986).
J Om Prakash's daughter, Pinky, is married to actor filmmaker Rakesh Roshan. The producer's grandson, Hrithik Roshan, was last seen in the blockbuster, Super 30 (2019).
The filmmaker was also elected president of the Film Producers' Guild of India, and served as president of the Film Federation of India in 1995-96.
The Producers' Guild of India expressed its condolences on the demise of the veteran filmmaker.
Deeply saddened by the demise of the veteran filmmaker and former Guild President late Shri J Om Prakash. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May his soul rest in peace.
— producersguildindia (@producers_guild) August 7, 2019