Bollywood shocked over 'Baghban' director Ravi Chopra's death

Film-maker Ravi Chopra, who directed Amitabh-starrer “Baghban”, passed away at 3:30 PM today (Wednesday) at Breach Candy hospital in Mumbai, where he was hospitalized for a severe lung ailment.

He was just 68. His funeral will take place at 11.00 AM at Pawan Hans on Thursday and many celebrities are expected at the ceremony.

Ravi was also known for directing "The Burning Train", "Aaj Ki Awaz", and "Baabul" among others.

Born in 1946, he hailed from the illustrious Bollywood Chopra family. His father was late filmmaker B.R. Chopra, and his uncle was late filmmaker Yash Chopra, who helmed romantic films like "Kabhi Kabhie", "Silsila" and “Dil Toh Pagal Hai". The Bollywood connection doesn’t end here. He was also cousin of Aditya and Uday Chopra.

The multi-talented Ravi directed one of the most popular mythological TV shows “Mahabharat”. The drama, produced by his father, ran from 1988 to 1990.

He had also directed the television mini-series “Ramayan”, which was aired in 2002.

Here's what B-town celebrities said on hearing the sad news:

Hema Malini: Ravi Chopra is gone, leaving behind a void. Renu & he were like family & I will miss him. Rest in peace dear friend (sic)

Madhur Bhandarkar: Saddened to hear about demise of Ravi Chopra-ji. Apart from being a fine filmmaker, he was also a very nice human being. Rest in Peace, Sir.

Rati Agnihotri: Oh my god. I am in Punjab shooting. I am truly sad.

Farah Khan: He was one of the nicest, kindest and big hearted soul.

Divya Dutta: I just got the news. It’s certainly very sad news and a huge loss for this industry. He was one man who was full of life. For me, working with him in ‘Baghban’ was like a picnic. He never used to get sad or stressed over anything.

Raajpal Yadav: He was the most lovable and humble person I have ever come across. I worked with him in ‘Baabul’ and before that he had given a huge hit film ‘Baghban’, but still he was so down to earth. He was a wonderful person but, unfortunately his health was not good. It’s certainly a very sad news.

Payal Rohatgi: RIP #RaviChopra Sir. May God give strength to the family. A huge loss to the Indian Film Industry.

Smriti Irani: Just heard about the sad demise of Ravi Chopra. Was blessed to work with him. A lovely soul. My condolences to his loved ones.

Alok Nath: Rest in peace Mr.Ravi Chopra, i will ever be grateful to you for giving me a break in Aaj ki aawaz during my struggle time. RIP sir.

Tusshar Kapoor: RIP Mr Ravi Chopra, deep condolences for the entire family, may his soul rest in peace!