Emptiness and grief as Simi Garewal, Aamir Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Jeetendra share condolences on Rishi Kapoor's demise

The film industry is right now struggling to recover from the twin blows dealt by the deaths of Rishi Kapoor and Irrfan Khan. The death of Kapoor, 67, came as a shock to many who had hoped that the actor was on the path to recovery. 

WIth tributes pouring in from across the world, Kapoor received a special homage from his first on-screen crush, Simi Garewal. The actress played the teacher on whom Kapoor's character in Mera Naam Joker (1970) develops a crush. It was the first onscreen appearance for the actor, who played the childhood version of his father, Raj Kapoor's titular joker in the film. 

Garewal was bereaved, writing, "No funerals. No embraces. Silence. Grief," in her message to depict the heartbreak. 

Garewal was not alone. Producer Anand Pandit, shared a statement that read, "Two days and two big shocks. It's a pandemic of sadness. Rishiji was an extraordinary actor and an unforgettable human being. Larger than life and evergreen. I grew up watching his films and learnt more about life from the films during his second stint. Mulk (2018),102 Not Out (2018), Kapoor & Sons (2016) to name a few, showed me and his fans how an actor can transform. We will miss you Rishiji. We have lost a gem today."

Long time co-star, Jeetendra, also shared a message saying, "The magnitude of his loss and the void he leaves behind will be felt forever. We’ve lost one of our closest friends, our very dear brother and one of the finest human beings. It was an honour to be a part of his life. Our deepest condolences to Neetu, Riddhima, Ranbir and the entire Kapoor family."

Hichki (2018) director Siddharth P Malhotra added, "This is truly the worst news. The one person in the Kapoor family I always kept in touch with. My fav actor and my dream to work with him, learn more remains incomplete... a fabulous family man... actor & human being who was always there for u ! We will miss u always Chintu Chacha RIP"

Priyanka Chopra Jonas shared a picture of her with Rishi and Neetu Kapoor, while the late actor was undergoing treatment in the United States. Calling it a "privilege" to have known him, the actress offered her condolences. 

Kapoor's demise was mourned by close friends and family who were deeply hit. Deepshikha Deshmukh, daughter of producer Vashu Bhagnani, and head, Pooja Entertainment, wrote, "News of Rishi Uncle's passing away is devastating. It seems unreal, untrue. It feels like somebody hit your heart with a cold rod. I will remember him for his beautiful movies, his larger-than-life persona and sharp wit. Farewell, Rishi Uncle. You lived life king-size. My prayers with Ranbir, Neetu Aunty and Riddhima."

The film industry has been bereaved twice in two days, leaving many to feel even gloomy in this lockdown period. Actress Anushka Sharma shared an image of Irrfan and Rishi Kapoor, that captured her sense of heartbreak. 

Sharma's PK (2015) co-star, Aamir Khan too shared a touching tribute, calling Kapoor a ''child of cinema''.

Kapoor's demise has undoubtedly left a large hole for the film industry this year.