Bollywood director Ayan Mukerji recently shared an emotional tribute to his late father, veteran actor Deb Mukerji, on what would have been his birth anniversary. This marks the first birth anniversary since his father’s passing earlier this year. Ayan posted unseen childhood photos on Instagram, which deeply moved fans and family.
One of the poignant pictures shows a very young Ayan sitting on his father Deb Mukerji’s lap. He also shared an old birthday card he had written for his father as a child, adding to the sentimental nature of the post. His cousin and actress Tanishaa Mukerji commented, "Happy Birthday Debu Kaka."
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Deb Mukerji passed away in March at the age of 83. He was a respected figure in the Hindi film industry and acted in several notable films. An official statement after his demise described him as the "soul" of the North Bombay Durga Puja Committee.
His contributions were so significant that his passing was widely considered the end of an era. His final journey was attended by Ayan, along with cousins Kajol and Rani Mukerji, and the entire Mukerji family. He was laid to rest at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu, Mumbai.
During his prayer meet, Ayan Mukerji made a humble request to photographers. He asked for privacy, emphasizing that it was a very personal day for the family and that the sound of cameras could disturb the solemn atmosphere.
Deb Mukerji had a diverse cinematic career, starring in memorable films such as Aansoo Ban Gaye Phool, Abhinetri, Do Aankhen, Baaton Baaton Mein, and Goodgudi. He was an uncle to actresses Kajol, Rani Mukerji, and Tanishaa Mukerji. He was also regarded as a guardian of the Mukerji family’s rich cultural traditions.