Tom Alter last rites done, Bollywood mourns famed actor

As the news of Tom Alter's demise poured in, members of the India film fraternity took to social media to mourn his death.  
Tom Alter
Tom Alter

An all rounder with a heart of gold -- that's how Bollywood celebrities like Rishi Kapoor, Mahesh Bhatt and Anil Kapoor remembered veteran theatre and film personality Tom Alter, who passed away in Mumbai after losing his battle with skin cancer.

As the news of Tom Alter's demise poured in, members of the India film fraternity took to social media to mourn his death. 
 Veteran theatre and film personality Tom Alter, who lost his battle against skin cancer, was cremated here on Saturday in the presence of his close family members and friends from the industry.

As the news of Tom's demise came out, tributes from the film, theatre, television and political world started to pour in, and many called him as a generous and kind-hearted talent. 

The actor was battling stage four skin cancer at a Mumbai hospital, where he was admitted earlier in September. 

He returned home on Thursday and breathed his last on Friday night, the acclaimed actor's manager Ismail Ansari told IANS. 

He was 67.

"The cremation was done in Worli. His close family members were present. Raza Murad and some directors from the industry were also present," Ansari said. 

His family has asked for "their privacy to be respected at this time".

Earlier, Tom's son Jamie had told IANS that the actor was suffering from squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Last year, Tom had got his thumb amputated due to the condition.

Known for starring in television shows like Zabaan Sambhalke, Bharat Ek Khoj, Junoon and Betaal Pachisi, Tom was an American-origin actor settled in India.

He had a flourishing career on stage, and on the big screen he has played pivotal roles in successful films like Gandhi, Shatranj Ke Khilari, Kranti, Aashiqui and Parinda.

In 2008, he was recognised with the Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian honour of India.

He last featured in a television show "Rishton Ka Chakravyuh", and on the big screen, he was seen in "Sargoshiyan". He also shot for a short film "The Black Cat", in which he features as author Ruskin Bond.

Through a Facebook post, "The Black Cat" director Bhargav Saikia said,"You have enriched my life and inspired me in so many ways since I met you for the first time in December last year... thank you for the memories, sir. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Farewell."

President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled his death saying he will always be remembered for his contribution to the film world and theatre. 

Tom Alter was battling stage four skin cancer at a Mumbai hospital, where he was admitted earlier in September. He returned home on Thursday and breathed his last on Friday night. He was 67. In 2008, Alter was honoured with the Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian honour.

Here's what the stars tweeted: 

Mahesh Bhatt: Goodbye to you my trusted friend! Actor Tom Alter, a Padma Shri awardee, dies of cancer at 67

Anil Kapoor: An all rounder is what he was, with a heart of gold. Back in the day, I even studied acting under him. You will be missed dearly Tom Alter

Rishi Kapoor: RIP. My friend and colleague Tom Alter. Bless you!

Madhur Bhandarkar: Sad to know about Tom Alter. Remember working with him as an AD in a film, His contribution to theatre and cinema will be always remembered. RIP.

Subhash Ghai: Bye Tom. You will always be remembered as our FTII friend, great actor, great teacher and greater human by all of us. RIP

Riteish Deshmukh: I had the privilege of working with him in 'Bangistan'. Will always remember him for his humility and kindness. Tom Alter

Nimrat Kaur: Waking up to some tragic news about the passing away of Tom Alter. A one of a kind, grace personified, thorough gentleman. 

Satish Kaushik: Tom sir you will be remembered for your great contribution to theatre and cinema

Vikram Bhatt: An actor, a cricketer and a gentleman. Rest in peace Tom. You shall be missed, always.

Mohit Chauhan: Saddened by the passing away of Tom Alter. A glorious chapter has come to an end. His death marks the end of an era of grace and dignity.

Kabir Bedi: Deeply saddened by the passing of Tom Alter, a wonderful person, terrific actor on stage and screen, lover of Urdu poetry. We'll miss you.

Vivek Agnihotri: Oh Tom Alter... I wish you had stayed longer. You had so many ideas waiting to express. Wherever you go, you will spread niceness and creativity.

Kunal Kohli: Tom Alter So much goodness. Warmth. Friendly. Attracts and exudes positivity and peace. a distinct voice. RIP Tom Alter last of the gentlemen. 

Huma Qureshi: So sad to hear about Tom Alter sir.. had the honour of knowing him while doing a play in Delhi .. such a lovely human being. Rest in Peace.

Vir Das: I had the honour of working with Tom Alter twice. He was the perfect example of a humble talented artist with a gigantic legacy.

Richa Chadha: RIP Tom Alter. You were an inspiration to so many. Thank you for the incredible work over many decades. Respect.

Prakash Jha: A lovely actor and a compassionate man dear Tom Alter, your forever smiling face will be missed my friend! Prayers for your soul.
 

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