Veteran screenwriter, producer, and director Rakesh Kumar passed away on November 10 after a protracted battle with cancer. Along with other hits, Amitabh Bachchan and Rakesh Kumar worked together on “Mr. Natwarlal,” “Yaarana,” and “Khoon Pasina.”
Amitabh Bachchan wrote on his blog in honour to Rakesh Kumar, saying, “But melancholy is the day… for another comrade has left us and me in particular… In particular, Hera Pheri, Khoon Pasina, Mr. Natwarlal, Yaarana, et al., and such excellent camaraderie on sets and elsewhere, socially, during events and Holi. Rakesh Sharma was Prakash Mehra’s first assistant director on ZANJEER before becoming an independent filmmaker for future PM films.
He continued to remember, “They all depart one by one… But some people, like Rakesh, leave a mark that is difficult to get rid of or forget. His sense of screenplay and direction, writing and execution on the fly, and the fun times on location during Nattu and Yaarana. His complete faith in his worth. And the ease with which he would grant us the liberty of skipping shootings on the odd day, just to be able to spend time relaxing and playing around. A very friendly and compassionate person, always willing to help those in need, especially the artists he collaborated with!”
Big B said, “No, I shall hesitate to go to his funeral… for I shall not be able to stand the sight of an inactive Rakesh!” in response to his inability to attend his close friend’s funeral. Rakesh, you elevated a lot of us to fame with your creative ideas for stories and movies, and you will always be remembered.
