Veteran actor of Marathi and Hindi films Viju Khote, who was popular for his Kalia character from the 1975 cult classic Sholay is no more. He was 78.
Viju passed away early on Monday, family sources said. He is survived by his actor sister Shubha Khote, who was elder to him by five years. Their father Nandu Khote was a noted stage actor too, and he worked in movies during the silent era.
Viju Khote made his big screen debut with Ya Malak in 1964 and went on to do some of the most remembered characters in the Hindi film industry.
In a career spanning almost six decades, Viju worked in over 300 films, including Phir Hera Pheri, Andaz Apna Apna from the modern era besides some television shows and ads.
Renowned for comedy roles, Viju was famed for the evergreen reply to Gabbar Singh’s ‘Kitne Aadmi The?’ in Sholay. ‘Do, Sarkar’ was the bumbling sidekick was Kalia’s response, which said it all.
He is also fondly remembered as the naive Robert from the film Andaz Apna Apna and was loved for his dialogue ‘galti se mistake hogaya’.
On television he is most remembered for his role from the 1993 sitcom Zabaan Sambhalke, the Indian version of the British sitcom Mind Your Language. (IANS)
Bollywood mourns demise of Sholay’s Kalia
A string of Bollywood celebrities have mourned the death of the veteran actor. Here’s what the celebrities had to say:
Rishi Kapoor: RIP. Viju Khote. Dear friend over the years. Though much elder,we used to bike together along with sister Shobha Khote ji,when I was young. Passionate and well informed about American films. We will miss you” Viju kutte aahe?
Madhuri Dixit Nene: Sad to hear about the demise of #VijuKhote Ji. May his soul rest in peace.
Ajay Devgn: Actors like Viju Khote were institutions by themselves. Their large body of work will always be remembered. I’m fortunate to have worked with him on quite a few films. RIP Sir… My heartfelt condolences to the family.
Suniel Shetty: Will miss you Viju ji… Rest in peace #vijukhote #RIPVijukhote.
Others celebs such as Anup Jalota and Rahul Dholakia also sent in their condolences