Kalia from 'Sholay', actor Viju Khote, passes away; Rishi Kapoor pays tribute to 'dear friend', Ajay Devgn calls him an institution by himself

MUMBAI: Veteran Hindi and Marathi film-theatre actor Viju Khote passed away on Monday due to multiple organ failure. He was 77.
The actor, most famous for playing the dacoit Kalia in 'Sholay' and Robert in 'Andaz Apna Apna', died at his residence.

"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.

The last rites of the actor were performed at Chandan Wadi around 11 am.

The several popular feature films that Khote was a part of also included 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak' and 'Ventilator'. He also featured in the TV show 'Zabaan Sambhalke'.

Bollywood stars remembered the actor and took to Twitter to offer condolences.

Ajay Devgn who worked with him on several films, including 'Golmaal 3' and 'Halla Bol', said, "Actors like Viju Khote were institutions by themselves. Their large body of work will always be remembered. I’m fortunate to have worked with him on quite a few films. RIP Sir🙏 My heartfelt condolences to the family."


Rishi Kapoor also remembered his 'dear friend', saying, "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”"


Describing Khote as "hilarious on stage, iconic on screen and a darling of a human being in real life", Boman Irani paid tribute to him.


Suniel Shetty and Madhuri Dixit-Nene also took to the micro-blogging site to offer condolences.



(With inputs from PTI)