Renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Kohli, a stalwart of the Indian film industry, breathed his last today at the age of 93. Kohli, known for helming iconic movies like Jaani Dushman, Nagin, and Pati Patni Aur Tawaif, succumbed to a heart attack in the early hours of the morning. His prolific career spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on Hindi cinema.
End of an Era: Rajkumar Kohli Passes Away
As reported by News18, Rajkumar Kohli, the father of actor Armaan Kohli, passed away at 8 A.M. this morning. According to sources, the filmmaker, who began his cinematic journey in 1963 with the debut film Sapni featuring Prem Chopra, was found collapsed on the floor by his son Armaan. Despite immediate medical attention, Kohli couldn’t be revived and was pronounced dead. The film fraternity mourns the loss of this cinematic luminary, and the funeral is scheduled for this evening.
A Cinematic Journey: Rajkumar Kohli’s Legacy
Born in 1930, Rajkumar Kohli made significant contributions to Indian cinema, starting with Sapni in 1963 and the Punjabi film Dulla Bhatti in 1966. While achieving moderate success with films like Lootera (1970) and Kahani Hum Sab Ki (1973), Kohli soared to fame with the 1976 blockbuster Nagin, showcasing a star-studded cast. His prowess continued with the success of Jaani Dushman in 1979, a milestone in India’s early horror film landscape.
Despite experiencing success with films like Naukar Biwi Ka (1983) and Inteqaam (1988), Kohli’s later career didn’t replicate the same level of triumph. In the 90s, he shifted away from the director’s chair, directing only one film post-2000. His final release, Jaani Dushman: Ek Anokhi Kahani (2002), served as a nostalgic nod to his 70s hits, featuring prominent stars and contemporary visual effects.
Kohli’s personal life was intertwined with the industry, having tied the knot with Nishi, a Punjabi film star and collaborator on his 1963 Punjabi film Pind Di Kudi. The couple shared two sons, Gogi and Armaan. Armaan, the younger son, followed in his father’s footsteps, entering the world of acting and starring in the last film directed by Kohli.
As the curtains fall on Rajkumar Kohli’s illustrious career, the film fraternity and fans alike remember him as a trailblazer in the horror genre, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of cinema enthusiasts.