Anupam Kher, Hansal Mehta, Mika Singh Remember Sanjay Gupta

Mumbai, October 31: Tributes continue to pour in for filmmaker Sanjay Gupta, who died suddenly, leaving the Hindi film industry in shock. Among those who remembered him were actor Anupam Kher, director Hansal Mehta, singer Mika Singh and director Madhur Bhandarkar, each of whom spoke of a man who was passionate about films and generous with people.

Anupam Kher was in Stockholm when he received the news. He shared a photograph of Gupta on Instagram and described his death as heartbreaking. Kher said it was hard to imagine that someone so full of life had left the world so suddenly.

Kher called Gupta a filmmaker with a distinct identity and a deep love for cinema. He said Gupta was often described as a walking encyclopaedia of films, and that anyone could ask him almost anything about movies. Kher recalled that Gupta's social media posts in recent days reflected his enthusiasm for his work.

Although Kher had worked with Gupta in two films, he said the filmmaker held a special place in his family. Kher remembered that Gupta always opened their conversations by saying they should work together. He said the same words were spoken during their last meeting about a year ago.

Kher also recalled the warmth of Gupta's home and a memorable Holi party held there a few years ago. He said he would cherish the memories of Gupta's affection and his love for films.

Director Hansal Mehta described Gupta as his only boss in the film industry and a dear friend. In an emotional Instagram post, Mehta said they had shared both difficult and happy times, and that their love for the good things in life had always remained the same.

Mehta revealed that Gupta had given him his first and only Rolex watch, which he continues to wear as a reminder of his friend. He said Gupta had stood by him during his worst phase. Mehta added that their time together had been remarkable, with good food, good wine, frequent parties and memorable films watched on Gupta's theatre screen. He also said he had borrowed several books from Gupta's library.

Mehta wrote that his brotherly bond with Gupta had begun with him and had now come to an end. He said he would remember Gupta more than he could ever express, and prayed for the strength of Gupta's family to endure the loss.

Madhur Bhandarkar expressed sorrow on X, writing that he was deeply saddened by the tragic news and wishing eternal peace to Gupta's soul.

Singer Mika Singh described Gupta as his elder brother and a remarkable human being. He called him a grounded person and an outstanding filmmaker, director and producer. Mika said Gupta gave him his first chance in Bollywood and that he would always remain grateful for his love, guidance and support.

Gupta's first big break for Mika came with the 2007 song 'Ganpat' from 'Shootout at Lokhandwala', which starred Vivek Oberoi. The song became popular and helped establish Mika's identity in Hindi film music.