The actor who played the iconic role of Kalia and Robert, Viju Khote, passes away at the age of 77 in Mumbai.
"Ab tera kya hoga re Kalia?!" is one of the most iconic lines in the Indian film industry. One cannot watch this scene from the movie "Sholay" without repeating it with Gabbar. Also, one cannot forget Robert jo galti se mistake karta tha in Andaz Apna Apna. Apart from Jay-Veeru and Amar-Prem, one character that gained popularity from these movies are the characters played by Viju Khote. Sadly, the actor was suffering from severe health problems. Multiple hospital visits couldn't bring an improvement in his health and it was earlier this morning that the actor passed away in his sleep due to multiple organ failure. His sad demise left his fans and well-wishers shocked and heartbroken.
He belonged to a family of actors and was related to the veteran actress Shobha Khote. Viju Khote was a theatre and film actor who was part of around 300 movies in the Hindi and Marathi film industry made his debut in the film industry with the movie, 'Ya Malak'. He is best remembered for his role of Kalia from Sholay and Robert from Andaz Apna Apna. He was also part of movies like Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, Golmaal 3, Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge. He was also a part of several Marathi movies like Ventilator and television shows like Zabaan Sambhalke. He also starred in a web series called Jeeney bhi do yaaro.
Fans paid their respect to Viju Khote on Twitter. Take a look here:
“Once when I dropped my son to school; he got angry and asked my ‘why is that man teasing you Kalia Kalia’. I said don’t feel bad, they loved my work so much they remember it everytime they see me.” ~ #VijuKhote when asked, do you feel that your other work is less appreciated. pic.twitter.com/LxWeIKodp3
— Film History Pics (@FilmHistoryPic) September 30, 2019
Kaalia of Sholay is no more. Viju Khote passes away at 77. Rest in Peace Sir. ? pic.twitter.com/T1IuMzSPip
— Rahul Suryavanshi (@RahulSu46796556) September 30, 2019
From ‘Kalia’ in Sholay to ‘Shambhu kaka’ in Golmaal, #VijuKhote was a true actor and entertainer who enthralled his fans for decades ... RIP! pic.twitter.com/ONsxpCBjI4
— Vishal Thakur (@ar_vishalthakur) September 30, 2019
Also Read: Remembering Dev Anand And His Iconic Songs
The Kalia - who was the most Gentlest, Simplest, Kindest, Caring, Supportive & an ever Smiling Father figure leaves us today. We will miss you a lot Vijoodada. May your soul Rest In Peace.#VijuKhote pic.twitter.com/6l6wlaVelv
— Shreyas Talpade (@shreyastalpade1) September 30, 2019
Sholay and Andaz Apna Apna actor Viju Khote passes away at the age of 77 :Bollywood Film News https://t.co/W1bsP7gapM pic.twitter.com/DHZ3i25LIX
— Entertainment Dose (@Ent_Dose) September 30, 2019
From Kalia in #Sholay to Robert in #AndazApnaApna... #VijuKhote will always be remembered. We share our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones after the passing away of the actor. pic.twitter.com/1Qgm2i1lAq
— Indian Spice (@spiceofi) September 30, 2019
Viju Khote ji a prominent actor from Hindi-Marathi film's has no more,his role as Kaliya in movie Sholay people will not forget,RIP. pic.twitter.com/akLdwSMA9g
— VIVEK YADAV(विवेक यादव) (@vivekyadav0123) September 30, 2019
Sad to know about the demise of one of the finest actors #vijukhote ji. My deepest condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/RJqKlGqich
— Isha Koppikar (@ishakonnects) September 30, 2019
We're all raising our glasses of sharbat-e-jannat for you, Robert. Thank you for everything #VijuKhote! pic.twitter.com/YqfzuQvSBK
— InUth (@InUthdotcom) September 30, 2019
Heartfelt tribute to the #Kaalia of Bollywood Mr #VijuKhote, as he passed away today ? pic.twitter.com/XLKr9Iut1v
— ETimes (@etimes) September 30, 2019
Veteran actor Mr #VijuKhote passes away pic.twitter.com/5GPnpWGT37
— BombayTimes (@bombaytimes) September 30, 2019
Although he passed away, his characters will always remain immortal. May his soul RIP.