Actor-director Neeraj Vora, best-known for directing Hera Pheri 2, passed away early morning on December 14 at Mumbai's Criti Care hospital.
Vora, who was in coma following a heart attack in 2016, was 54. He was being looked after by producer Firoz Nadiadwala, who converted one of the rooms in his house into a makeshift ICU of sorts.
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit told The Indian Express, "Neeraj Vora died today at 3 am in Criti Care hospital in Juhu. He had been in coma and living at Firoz Nadiadwala's place. When his condition deteriorated in the night, he was taken to the hospital, where he breathed his last."
Firoz Nadiadwala said, "I've lost the battle to save my brother and friend from the clutches of death."
A gifted writer, Vora also acted in films including Akele Hum Akele Tum, Rangeela, Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, , Virasat, Mann, Satya, Mast, Pukar and Company.
His colleagues from the film industry condoled his death on Twitter:
One of the main reasons behind my foray into comedy, saddened to hear about the demise of #NeerajVora a multi-talented man, writer, director, actor...a mini industry by himself, learnt so much from him. RIP
— Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) December 14, 2017
#neerajvora one of India's finest humorist screenwriter is no more. he was a friend, relative and also the writer of my first KHDBB- R.I.P.
— rahul dholakia (@rahuldholakia) December 14, 2017
We started out as Actors & Singers in Mithibai College.
— Ashutosh Gowariker (@AshGowariker) December 14, 2017
In my 1st film PEHLA NASHA #NeerajVora debuted as Writer & Music Director. Next we co-wrote BAAZI.
He was the FUNNIEST & WITTIEST guy I knew.
Today, I've lost a BEST FRIEND & BROTHER! But he will always LIVE in my heart! pic.twitter.com/3zjz66JaD0
Shocked & saddened to hear of the demise of #Neerajvora ji! Had cast me for Golmaal 1 & directed me in the unreleased Run Bhola Run! RIP sir
— Tusshar (@TusshKapoor) December 14, 2017
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences:
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.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 14, 2017
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