Director of Amitabh Bachchan Starrer Don Dies at 86 After Battle With Pulmonary Fibrosis
Farhan Akhtar, Sanjay Gupta, and Kunal Kohli Mourn the Loss
The film industry is mourning the loss of Chandra Barot, the director of the iconic Amitabh Bachchan film Don. He passed away at the age of 86 after battling pulmonary fibrosis.
Chandra Barot’s Health Battle
- His wife, Deepa Barot, confirmed the news of his passing.
- According to his family, he had been struggling with pulmonary fibrosis for the past seven years.
- His wife said, “He’d been struggling for a while, and it had become too difficult for him to manage.”
Chandra Barot and Don: A Legacy
Chandra Barot is best known for directing the original 1978 blockbuster Don starring Amitabh Bachchan. The film became a cultural milestone and is remembered as one of Bollywood’s most iconic crime dramas.
- While Farhan Akhtar later rebooted the Don franchise with Shah Rukh Khan and is now working on Don 3 with Ranveer Singh, Barot’s Don remains the original classic.
Industry Tributes Pour In
Several filmmakers and industry veterans shared their condolences:
- Farhan Akhtar wrote on social media:
“The director of the OG Don is no more… Saddened to learn this news. RIP Chandra Barot-ji. Deepest condolences to the family.” - Kunal Kohli, who once assisted Barot, expressed his gratitude and respect.
- Sanjay Gupta paid his tribute via X (formerly Twitter), recalling Barot’s film Do Bhai, calling it “the most entertaining film.”
Other Works by Chandra Barot
While Don defined his career, Chandra Barot directed several other films, including:
- Aashrita
- Pyar Bhara Dil
- Hong Kong Wali Script
- Neil Ko Pakadna…Impossible
He also started his career as an assistant director and contributed to notable films like:
- Purab Aur Pachhim
- Yaadgaar
- Roti Kapda Aur Makan
Chandra Barot’s Reflections on His Career
In an interview with Rediff.com, Barot candidly reflected on his career:
“Kitne films banayi K Asif ne? Barely any, but Mughal-E-Azam will remain for him. Ramesh Sippy had many films to his name, but will forever be known as the man who made Sholay. Mehboob made plenty more, of course, but he is best remembered for Mother India. Similarly, I did one film—Don—and I will never ever forget it.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Chandra Barot’s work continues to inspire generations of filmmakers. His version of Don remains a touchstone in Indian cinema, ensuring his name will be remembered for decades to come.
