A file photo of Pradeep Sarkar. (courtesy: mehtahansal)
Filmmaker Pradeep Sarkar, who was best-known for directing films like Parineeta, Helicopter Eela and Mardaani, has died at the age of 67. Director Hansal Mehta shared the news on his Twitter profile on Friday morning and he wrote: "Pradeep Sarkar. Dada. RIP." United by grief, Bollywood stars paid tribute to the filmmaker. Ajay Devgn, in his eulogy for Pradeep Sarkar, wrote: "The news of Pradeep Sarkar's demise, 'Dada' to some of us is still hard to digest. My deepest condolences. My prayers are with the departed and his family. RIP Dada." Actor Manoj Bajpayee retweeted Hansal Mehta's tweet and he wrote: "Ohh! That's so shocking! Rest in peace Dada."
Read Ajay Devgn's tribute here:
Manoj Bajpayee paid tribute in his tweet.
Neil Nitin Mukesh, who worked with the filmmaker in Lafangey Parindey, tweeted: "DADA! Why? I'll miss you dada. Will always remember you as that child hearted, full of life man who taught me so much. Your creation Lafangey Parindey will always remain close to my heart. My prayers with the family."
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, in his tribute, wrote: "Sad to know that well known brilliant filmmaker of our country Pradeep Sarkar ji passes away. A great loss to the film industry. Heartfelt condolences to his family and near ones."
Before venturing into films, Pradeep Sarkar directed several popular music videos and commercials. He made his directorial debut with Parineeta in 2005. The film featured Vidya Balan, Saif Ali Khan and Sanjay Dutt.
Over the years, Pradeep Sarkar helmed films like Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, Lafangey Parindey, Mardaani to name a few. His last project as a director was the 2018 film Helicopter Eela, starring Kajol in the lead role.