Veteran filmmaker Chandra Barot, known for Amitabh Bachchan's Don, dies at 86

Veteran director Chandra Barot, best known for the 1978 classic Don passed away at 86. He battled pulmonary fibrosis and left behind a legacy marked by friendship and cinematic impact.

Chandra Barot and Amitabh Bachchan on the sets of Don

Legendary director Chandra Barot, who was 86 years old on Sunday, passed away in a Bandra hospital. He was famous for helming the 1978 cult classic Don with Amitabh Bachchan. For years, he had been fighting pulmonary fibrosis, and now he was receiving treatment for it.

Wife Deepa Barot confirms death

The Times of India reported that Barot's wife, Deepa Barot, confirmed his death. She added that his battle with pulmonary fibrosis had lasted seven years. The filmmaker had previously been admitted to Jaslok Hospital and was undergoing treatment at Guru Nanak Hospital with Dr. Manish Shetty.

A huge commercial and critical success, Barot's directorial debut, Don became a cult classic in Hindi cinema and is still considered the most significant contribution he made to Indian cinema. In an act of friendship, the filmmaker volunteered to serve as the film's director and cinematographer as a favour to his friend, Nariman Irani, who also served as the film's producer. This gesture led to the production of the film.

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Gesture of friendship that shaped Bollywood history

The choice to direct Don was not entirely for business reasons. It was based on a shared desire to be there for Irani during a tough moment and a spirit of friendship. Remakes, sequels, and an everlasting impact on Bollywood pop culture have resulted from the film's status as a landmark of the late 1970s, which featured Bachchan in a dual role and Zeenat Aman.

Racial tensions in East Africa forced Barot to flee from Tanzania to India before he entered the field of direction. He began his career in India's film industry as an assistant director, acquiring the necessary skills upon his arrival. His formative years as an assistant to actor-director Manoj Kumar prepared him well for a career in filmmaking.

Lasting legacy

Don secured Barot's association with one of the most legendary films in Indian cinematic history, even though his filmography remained sparse in comparison.

With his passing, Barot closed a chapter in Hindi cinema history, fuelled by friendship, passion, and an iconic performance that has captivated viewers for almost half a century.

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