Bollywood Mourns the Loss of Veteran Filmmaker Kuku Kohli; Ajay Devgn Pays Emotional Tribute
The Hindi film industry is in mourning following the passing of veteran filmmaker Kuku Kohli, who died on Tuesday at the age of 77. Known for his significant contributions to mainstream Bollywood cinema, particularly during the 1990s, Kohli suffered a fatal heart attack and was rushed to Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he breathed his last.
A Mentor Remembered
Among the many voices expressing grief, Bollywood superstar Ajay Devgn shared a poignant tribute to the man who served as the architect of his cinematic career.
Taking to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Devgn reflected on the profound impact Kohli had on his professional and personal life. “Some people change the course of your life forever. Kuku ji was one of those people for me. Forever grateful for the faith you had in me. You will be deeply missed, Kuku ji. Om Shanti,” the actor wrote.
The Iconic Launch of an Action Star
The professional relationship between Devgn and Kohli is legendary in Indian cinema history. In 1991, Kohli directed Phool Aur Kaante, the film that catapulted a young Ajay Devgn into instant stardom. The action-romance was a massive commercial success, but it is perhaps best remembered for the film’s iconic opening sequence. Devgn’s daredevil entry, where he performed a split between two moving motorcycles, remains one of the most celebrated and imitated hero introductions in the history of Bollywood.
A Legacy of Mainstream Hits
Before stepping into the director’s chair, Kuku Kohli honed his craft working under the legendary Raj Kapoor. He further sharpened his skills as a second unit director on the classic Betaab, which launched the careers of Sunny Deol and Amrita Singh.
Following the breakout success of his directorial debut, Phool Aur Kaante, Kohli went on to become a staple of 90s cinema. His filmography includes hits such as Suhaag—which brought together Ajay Devgn and Akshay Kumar—along with Haqeeqat, Kohram, Baadshah, and Hulchul. His ability to blend high-octane action with family drama and musical storytelling made him a defining filmmaker of his generation.
Personal Life
Kuku Kohli is survived by his wife, the celebrated veteran actress Aruna Irani, whom he married in 1990. He is also survived by two daughters from his first marriage. As news of his passing spread, colleagues and fans alike have flooded social media with tributes, acknowledging a filmmaker who not only entertained millions but also played a pivotal role in shaping the stars who continue to dominate the industry today.
