Ayan Mukerji recently made an emotional appeal to the paparazzi during a prayer meet held in Mumbai on March 18, 2025, in memory of his late father, Deb Mukherjee, who passed away at the age of 83 on March 14 following a prolonged illness. The prayer meeting, a significant but somber occasion, drew many prominent figures from Bollywood, including Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal, who came to pay their respects.
Just before the event began, Ayan Mukerji approached the photographers stationed outside, requesting their understanding and cooperation. He expressed concern over the noise and commotion that could arise if too many photographers were allowed inside, which could disturb the solemnity of the prayer session. "It’s a prayer meet—it’s quite personal. If you feel you are not getting better shots, then I am sorry, but I think, for us, this will be a better arrangement today," he stated, emphasizing the personal nature of the gathering.
As the photographer's dissatisfaction became evident regarding their assigned position for capturing the notable attendees, Ayan continued, "We didn’t have that kind of space here. There will be some shlokas inside. If there are too many photographers, then it will get very noisy. So please understand a little bit for today." He urged photographers to consider the nature of the event, which was vastly different from their regular coverage of festive occasions like the annual Durga Puja celebrations the Mukerji family is famous for hosting.
Among the celebrities in attendance were Anupam Kher, Siddharth Roy Kapur, and many others, who, like Ayan, are mourning the loss of Deb Mukherjee. Known for his roles in notable films such as Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar and Aansoo Ban Gaye Phool, Deb Mukherjee not only made a mark in the cinematic world but also played an instrumental role in the North Bombay Durga Puja, which remains a significant cultural event for many.
Ranbir Kapoor, a close friend of Ayan, had cut short his vacation with wife Alia Bhatt to honor Deb at the prayer meeting. Kapoor showed his devotion to friendship and respect for the family by attending the service. He was seen arriving at the venue, making polite requests to the paparazzi to maintain space. Another notable moment was when Kapoor, visibly heartbroken, carried Deb’s body during the funeral rites, illustrating the deep connections within the film fraternity.
Various other industry veterans, including Hrithik Roshan, Anil Kapoor, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, and many others also gathered at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu for Deb Mukherjee’s last rites followed by the prayer meet. His impact on Bollywood is remembered not only for his film credits but also for the cultural significance of the rituals and celebrations he helped curate.
Ayan Mukerji, who is navigating his own grief while directing his upcoming movie War 2, urged the paparazzi one last time, assuring them that visuals from the prayer meet would be shared later, confirming, "We will share some visuals with you later. Thank you." This gesture highlights both his commitment to the press and his need for privacy in personal moments.
Deb Mukherjee’s legacy extends deeply into the Bollywood film industry where he left an indelible mark. His career began in 1965 with Tu Hi Meri Zindagi, and he continued to shape the industry until his last onscreen appearance in the 2009 film Kaminey. He was well-respected not only as an actor but as a cultural figure working hard to preserve community and tradition through his engagements in the North Bombay Durga Puja celebrations.
As families and friends come together to mourn a dedicated artist, it also opens the door for reflection on the importance of respecting personal boundaries even in the age of constant media scrutiny. Ayan Mukerji's request to the paparazzi underscores a crucial aspect often overlooked—the need for privacy during moments of grief. As Bollywood continues to grapple with the loss of one of its prominent figures, the emotional tributes and attendance from fellow celebrities reinforce the deep connections and community present in the film industry.
Ultimately, Deb Mukherjee’s contributions to films and festivals will not be forgotten, and his family’s public effort to honor his memory during such a personal event reminds everyone of the importance of community and respect in life and death.
