Writer, director, actor Neeraj Vora (54) passed away at 4 am last morning at Mumbai’s Criti Care Hospital.
A pleasant person on set, Neeraj was known for his sharp wit and would often get you cracking up with some of his jokes and observations. When he suffered a stroke almost two years ago, the industry was shocked and saddened.
His death left many superstars teary-eyed. Akshay Kumar and Aamir Khan with whom he had a special equation were distraught. Throughout his illness, producer Firoz A Nadiadwallah who was his close associate for more than a decade, cared for him.
Firoz had told us earlier, “He is a brother and I want to do my best for him.”A mini hospital set-up was put up at Nadiadwallah’s bungalow Barkat in Juhu. And Akshay and Aamir constantly asked for health updates on Neeraj. In fact, Akshay closely monitored the funny man’s condition throughout. On his passing away, the actor tweeted, “One of the main reasons behind my foray into comedy. Saddened to hear about the demise #Neeraj Vora, a multi-talented man, writer, director, actor, a mini industry by himself, learnt so much from him.’’ (Sic)
Neeraj’s association with Hindi cinema was deep. He had written the dialogue for Rangeela and had also acted in the film. He later directed the comedy films, Khiladi 420 and Phir Hera Pheri. And he was seen as an actor in many films that included Daud, Welcome Back, Company, Pukar, Rangeela, Satya, Baadshah and Mann. A talented writer he was credited with the screenplays of Hera Pheri, Rangeela, Akele Hum Akele Tum and Chori Chori Chupke Chupke. He was also closely associated with Gujarati theatre.
PM Narendra Modi also tweeted about the death of the cine personality. “Saddened by the demise of Neeraj Vora. An energetic and creative personality, he will be remembered for his films and warm nature. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour,” he wrote.
The last rites were performed in Mumbai yesterday.
