2020 was filled a number of tragic deaths in the world of showbiz.
There was a list of talented and celebrated artists that we lost during this period, many of whom left an unfillable void with their absence.
As we reflect back at the year that’s been, we list some of the most noted celebrated deaths during the year, that shook the world of cinema and beyond.
1) Sushant Singh Rajput
Sushant Singh Rajput’s death was the most shocking of all, in 2020. The actor, who was just 34, with a steady career as an A-lister in Bollywood, passed away in the month of June. His death was initially ruled as suicide by investigating authorities, however it later led to one of the most extensive and controversial investigations in Bollywood history – shaking-up the whole industry. The actor’s death was also responsible for once again, bringing discussions on – nepotism, groupism and classism in the industry, on the table.
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2) Irrfan Khan
One of the most revered talents in recent Hindi cinema, Irrfan Khan passing was a tragic loss for cinema lovers across the globe. His acting talents had also been proven in Hollywood productions like – Life Of Pi, The Namesake and The Amazing Spiderman. The seasoned star died in the month of April, after a short battle with a rare form of a cancer. His list released film was ‘English Medium’.
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3) Rishi Kapoor
One of the biggest Bollywood superstars of the 80’s and an unforgettable icon of his era, Rishi Kapoor suffered from a rare form of cancer and was getting treated for the same in the United States. His health later deteriorated and he passed away on 30th April at the age of 67. His most notable works in the recent years included films like – ‘Do Duni Chaar’ and ‘101 Not Out’ – in which he was paired opposite Amitabh Bachchan.
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4) Wajid Khan
Notable musician of the famous 90’s musical duo – Sajid-Wajid, Wajid Khan passed away in June at the age of 42. The cause of death was stated as – Cardiac Arrest. The duo are noted for rendering music to Sonu Nigam’s blockbuster album, ‘Deewana’ and their most recent projects included – Ek Tha Tiger, Dabangg, Partner and Rowdy Rathore, to name a few.
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5) SP Balasubramanium
One of the legendary voices of South Indian cinema, who also gained notoriety with his work in mainstream Hindi cinema. SP Balasubramanium died in the month of September at the age of 74, following which tributes flew from all quarters of the music industry. His most notable work in Hindi movies was in the film ‘Maine Pyaar Kiya’, for which he won several awards, including a Filmfare in the year 1990.
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6) Nimmi
One of the leading ladies of the golden era of Indian cinema, Nimmi – whose real name was Nawab Banoo, died at the age of 87, after prolonged issues with her health. She eventually succumbed to a heart attack, it was reported. She starred in some of the first technicolour films of India and her most noted roles were in movies like Sazaa (1951), Aan (1952) and Uran Khatola (1955), to name a few.
7) Saroj Khan
One of the most celebrated and widely known choreographers, who changed the game for whoever came after her – Saroj Khan, curated a brand for herself in her illustrious career. The star-choreographer lent her steps some of the biggest heroines of the silver screen, ranging from Madhuri Dixit to Kangana Ranaut. She died at 71 in the month of July, after suffering from a cardiac arrest.
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8) Syed Jafri AKA Jagdeep
One of the most popular comedians of his time, Syed Jafri AKA Jagdeep died of age-related natural causes on 8 July 2020, at his Mumbai residence. His death was mourned by the who’s who of the industry, who remembered him as one of the most iconic faces of the golden era of Hindi cinema. Some of his most notable roles were in movies like – Soorma Bhopali, Andaz Apna Apna, Sholay and Do Beegha Zameen, to name a few.
9) Bhanu Athaiya
The first Indian talent to win an Academy award, Bhanu Athaiya had done some pretty amazing work as an art director and costume designer in Hindi films, before she etched her name in history by grabbing the golden statue for her work in the Hollywood classic – Gandhi. The renowned talent died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 91 on 15 October 2020, surrounded by her family. Her most notable work in Hindi films can be seen in – Lagaan, Swades, Ram Teri Ganga Maili, Razia Sultan, The Burning Train, Mera Naam Joker and Guide, to name a few.
RIP