The popular satirist and film-maker was on a tour to promote his latest film Power Cut
Popular satirist and film-maker Jaspal Bhatti, the man behind hit comedy shows like Ulta Pulta andFlop Show , was killed in a road accident in the wee hours of Thursday after his car rammed into a tree.
Bhatti’s son Jasraj, who was driving the car, actor Surilie Gautam, the heroine of his upcoming filmPower Cut , and film promoter Navneet Joshi were injured in the mishap, the police said.
The 57-year-old actor-director, who became popular due to his satirical shows during the golden days of Doordarshan, was on a tour to promote the film when the accident took place near Shahkot in Nakodar area of the district at 2.30 a.m., Bhatti’s associate Vinod Sharma told PTI here.
All four were rushed to a private hospital in Jalandhar where Bhatti, who suffered serious head injuries, was declared brought dead. Bhatti is survived by wife Savita, son Jasraj and daughter Raabiya.
Mr. Sharma said Bhatti was going to Jalandhar from Bhatinda for the promotion of his Punjabi film, which is based on frequent power cuts in Punjab.
He was scheduled to address a Press conference in Jalandhar on Thursday to promote the film, awaiting release on Friday.
Jasraj, Navneet and Surilie, who is the sister of Vicky Donor star Yami Gautam, have been referred to a Ludhiana hospital now. Their condition is stable, according to doctors.
Born on March 3, 1955, in Amritsar, Bhatti graduated from Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, as an electrical engineer.
He became popular in his college days for his street plays. Before venturing into television, Bhatti was a cartoonist for The Tribune in Chandigarh.
His shows Ulta Pulta and Flop Show introduced Bhatti’s brand of comedy to the pan-Indian audience. Remembered even today, the shows poked fun at the socio-political situations of the Indian society.
Bhatti’s satire on Punjab Police, Mahaul Theek Hai, in 1998 was his first directorial venture in Punjabi. He also acted in many films, including Salman Khan starrer Janam Samjha Karo and Aamir Khan starrer Fanaa .
Reacting to Bhatti’s death, Union Information & Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni said he will always be remembered for his portrayal of the problems of the common man.
“He truly pioneered the comedy content on TV, especially through Doordarshan. His TV shows left a deep imprint on the minds of the common people. He always regaled the people with his subtle, quiet and honest humour. I pray to God that the family gathers the strength to overcome this untimely crisis,” said Ms. Soni.
Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal described Bhatti as a multi-faceted personality and a true son of soil.
Actor Anupam Kher said: “Just landed in Mumbai and came to know about my friend Jaspal Bhatti’s tragic death. Why is God taking away all the nicest people? So SAD.”
Actor Akshay Kumar recalled memories of Bhatti’s Flop Show . “Saddened to know about the death of the great comedian Jaspal Bhatti. I have fond memories of his super hit show, Flop Show , providing the much needed humour in our lives. May his soul rest in peace.”
Actor Jimmy Shergill said: “Received another shockingly terrible news of the demise of Jaspal Bhatti Saab today... I don’t know what’s hapenning.. so sad... RIP.” — PTI