Renowned filmmaker Chandra Barot, celebrated for directing the iconic 1978 film Don featuring Amitabh Bachchan, passed away on July 20 at the age of 86. He had been suffering from pulmonary fibrosis for the last seven years and was hospitalized at Guru Nanak Hospital. His wife, Deepa Barot, confirmed the heartbreaking news.

The news of Chandra Barot’s death has left fans in shock, with heartfelt tributes flooding in from across Bollywood. Recognized as the mastermind behind one of Hindi cinema’s most stylish and memorable thrillers, Barot’s impact on the film industry is truly unforgettable.

Filmmaker and actor Farhan Akhtar, who directed the remakes of Don and is currently working on the third installment, expressed his condolences, stating, “I am saddened to hear that the director of the original Don has passed away. RIP Chandra Barot-ji. My deepest sympathies to the family.”

Director Kunal Kohli also took to social media to reminisce about his experiences. “Chandra ji RIP sir. He was the only director I assisted. Not on Don, but on a film with Vinod Khanna that never got released. I skipped college to assist him, and it was an incredibly enriching experience! He was exceptionally sharp and full of fascinating stories. Thank you for giving us #Don, one of the most stylish films in Indian cinema.”

Barot’s cinematic journey began in the 1970s as an assistant director. His early works include films such as Purab Aur Pachhim and Yaadgar (1970), Shor (1972), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974). He made his directorial debut with Don, which achieved massive success and remains a cult classic to this day.

In addition to Don, he directed Bengali films like Aashrita (1989) and Pyar Bhara Dil (1991). Although some of his projects, such as Hong Kong Wali Script and Neil Ko Pakadna…Impossible, were never completed, his vision and storytelling talent left a significant mark.

As fans and colleagues reflect on the man who brought Don to life, his legacy continues to motivate future generations of filmmakers. Chandra Barot’s contributions to Indian cinema will be honored with deep respect and admiration.

Shah Rukh Khan discloses his intention to remake Don with Chandra Barot, rather than substituting Amitabh Bachchan.