Veteran Bollywood Actor Viju Khote Passes Away At 77 Due To Multiple Organ Failure

Veteran Bollywood actor Viju Khote, most known for playing the role of Kalia in ‘Sholay’ died today on September 30, at his residence in Mumbai. He has appeared in more than 300 Hindi and Marathi films besides working in TV shows and plays. He was 77.

The actor made his big screen debut with the 1964 film ‘Ya Malak’ and went on to do some of the most iconic characters in Bollywood. His popular films include Sholay, Andaz Apna Apna, Qurbani, Karz, Nagina and China Gate, among others.

"He passed away today at 6.55 am peacefully in his sleep at the residence. He has been unwell since quite sometime. He had multiple organ failure," actor Bhavana Balsavar, his niece, told PTI.

"He did not wish to die in the hospital so we had brought him home few days ago. It is a great loss for all of us," she said.

Upon hearing the news of his demise, celebs from B-Town took down to Twitter to mourn the death of a talented actor.

Sad to know about the demise of one of the finest actors #vijukhote ji. My deepest condolences to his family.

ओम् शांति !

— Ashoke Pandit (@ashokepandit) September 30, 2019

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? pic.twitter.com/6e6KXaepFI

— Rishi Kapoor (@chintskap) September 30, 2019

He charmed us in so many varied parts .. most well loved was, of course #Kaalia from #sholay .. RIP #VijuKhote ji

— Tisca Chopra (@tiscatime) September 30, 2019

Sad News: Mr Viju Khote passed away today. He had been working in movies since 1964 and is most famous for playing Kalia in #Sholay.

— Faridoon Shahryar (@iFaridoon) September 30, 2019

You’ve given us many unforgettable roles in the best of the films, thank you for your contribution to indian cinema,RIP #VijuKhote ji??

— Esha Gupta (@eshagupta2811) September 30, 2019

May his soul rest in peace as his family finds strength in this hard time.