Veteran actor Avtar Kishen Hangal died in a Mumbai hospital, on Sunday, after prolonged illness, which was aggravated by a recent injury. The 95-year-old actor was admitted to a hospital in suburban Mumbai on August 16, after he slipped in his bathroom, and suffered a back injury. Doctors were unable to operate upon him, as he had chest and respiratory problems and when his condition became critical, he was put on life support system.
Doctors, who were treating Hangal, claim that he died following lung and kidney failure. The veteran, who is survived by his son Vijay, will be cremated this afternoon at Vile Parle crematorium.
Hangal acted in more than 200 films, in his career and is best remembered for his role in 'Sholay', 'Aina' and 'Namak Haraam'. He was last seen on-screen in TV series 'Madhubala', in May 2012.
Bollywood celebrities mourned the legendary actor's demise, who enriched Indian cinema and theaters, and took to Twitter to offer their condolences.
Mahesh Bhatt: "Adieux Hangal Saab! What an innings !!!"
Shekhar Kapoor: "AK Hangal. Lifetime dedicated 2 d art of acting in theatre. Will always b remembered by his films."
Ranvir Shorey: "A K Hangal, RIP. #respect."
Kunal Kohli: "Itna Sannata Kyon Hai Bhai ...... RIP A K Hangal Sir."
Arshad Warsi: "I had the pleasure of working with A K Hangal in 'Tere Mere Sapne' my first film.... May his soul rest in peace...."
Anupam Kher: "The Marathon Man of Hindi Cinema reaches the final winning post. We will miss you Hangal Saab. RIP."
Shabana Azmi: "Ak Hangal no more. An era comes to an end. Theatre and film were enriched by him."
Anubhav Sinha: "Is this a year of DEATHS??? So MANY people just moving on to the other side. RIP Mr Hangal and Mr Armstrong."
Farhan Akhtar: "A stalwart of Indian theatre and film is no more. RIP AK Hangal."
Shreyas Talpade: " RIP Hangalsaab."
