Film and theatre actor Ranjit Chowdhry died in Mumbai on Wednesday, aged 64. The actor's half-sister, theatre director Raell Padamsee, shared the news of his death on social media.
For all those who knew Ranjit, the funeral will be held tomorrow and a gathering to celebrate his life n share his stories on May 5th.
— Raell Padamsee (@raellpadamsee1) April 15, 2020
With love, Raell. pic.twitter.com/MZsTPXnTnp
Son of the renowned theatre artiste Pearl Padamsee, Chowdhry gained popularity with his performances as the impish, quick-witted young man in films like Khatta Meetha (1978), Baton Baton Mein (1979) and Khoobsurat (1980). While the films went on to be hugely popular, Chowdhry chose to move abroad for a career in Hollywood.
Forming a close friendship with directors like Deepa Mehta and Mira Nair, the actor featured in films like Mississippi Masala (1991), Fire (1996) and Bollywood Hollywood (2002). He even wrote the screenplay for Mehta's Sam & Me. Mehta tweeted: "Miss him — a real loss."
Miss him - a real loss. https://t.co/1fx0kpth38
— Deepa Mehta (@IamDeepaMehta) April 16, 2020
Chowdhry also worked in two episodes of the US television series, Prison Break, as Dr Marvin Gudat.
Actor Rahul Khanna, who co-starred with Chowdhry in Bollywood Hollywood, shared his grief online.
Gutted to learn of #RanjitChowdhry’s passing. Despite his diminutive frame, he was a towering icon of Indian diaspora cinema and a master of his craft. By far, one of the most endearingly quirky and acerbically witty people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. A true original!
— Rahul Khanna (@R_Khanna) April 16, 2020
Actress Poorna Jagannathan also shared her experience of working with the actor.
This guy made magic out of nothing, filling paper thin roles with so much depth. I always saw my father when I was with him- the same humor, stubbornness and brilliance. Heartbroken, dear friend. RIP
— Poorna Jagannathan (@PoornaJags) April 15, 2020
#RanjitChowdhry pic.twitter.com/r8qM2iLCAI
In recent years, Chowdhry gained prominence for his role as the telemarketer Vikram in the American television series The Office (2005–2013).
The actor's funeral will be held in Mumbai today.