Ravi Chopra : Bollywood celebs remember the filmmaker

Raj Babbar has worked with Ravi Chopra in his hit film Insaaf Ka Tarazoo. While speaking to Mumbai Mirror the actor expressed grief saying, “I'm shattered. My parents gave me birth, but the Chopras gave me a name and an identity. I shared a unique relationship with him. How could he pass away? He was health conscious, wouldn't smoke or drink and exercised after work. If that man can be reduced to such bad health, I don't see any purpose in life."

Veteran filmmaker Ravi Chopra passed away yesterday. According to a Times of India report, he had been suffering from a neuro-degenerative disease. Ravi Chopra gave the industry hit films like Baghban and The Burning Train. Hema Malini had worked with him in several of his films, The Burning Train, Baghban and Baabul. Speaking to Mumbai Mirror she said, "He was a beautiful man without any complexities. Even on sets, he was always playful and cracked a joke at the drop of a hat. Working with him was like a dream. My favourite film of his remains Baghban, it was straight from the heart."

Veteran actress Rati Agnihotri was a close friend of Ravi Chopra. She is currently in Punjab shooting for a film. Speaking to Mumbai Mirror, she said, "Our kids went to the same school... and we kept in touch. His wife, Renu, is a brave lady and also a dear friend. I will always remember him as a man with a big smile on his face." Rati Agnihotri had worked with Ravi Chopra in the film Tawaif .

Bhushan Kumar also remembered the late filmmaker. He remembered Ravi Chopra as the one who is very fond of hot chocolate and fast cars. Speaking to Mumbai Mirror Bhushan Kumar said, "I was deeply attached to him. I stood by the family when nobody else did. Due to several troubles, his banner couldn't produce the films he wanted to make. Which is when I decided to extend support to him. I will miss him a lot."

Amitabh Bachchan has worked with Ravi Chopra in Baghban. He remembered the filmmaker on his blog. Big B posted, "Ravi Chopra, my dear friend and director and producer passed away suddenly today … my son called to give me the news ..Filled with grief and sorrow, and unable to find words that could possibly describe what I go through, it is difficult to imagine those days spent together .. What does one write on such occasions .. Silence is the best condolence …" Amitabh Bachchan further posted on micro blogging site Twitter, "It is the time in life when you do not make friends, but lose them."

Several celebrities took to micro-blogging site Twitter to remember the filmmaker and express condolences to the Chopra family.

Sonu Nigam: Saddened 2 learn of Shri Ravi Chopra's demise. Always found him to b a robust man etrmly humble. Suffered a lot though. God bless his soul. [sic]

Vishal Dadlani: Just heard that Mr. Ravi Chopra of BR Films has passed on. Truly tragic. One of the most gracious gentlemen I've worked with. RIP. [sic]

Farah Khan: One of the nicest, kindest n big hearted soul in the film industry passed away today..Ravi Chopra.. May you rest in peace. [sic]

Madhur Bhandarkar: Saddened to hear about demise of Ravi Chopra-ji. Apart from being a fine filmmaker, he was also a very nice human being. Rest in Peace, Sir. [sic]

Alok Nath: Rest in eternal peace mr.Ravi copra, i will ever be grateful to you for giving me a break in Aaj ki aawaz during my struggle time. RIP sir. [sic]

Smriti Z Irani: Just heard about the sad demise of Ravi Chopra. Was blessed to work with him. A lovely soul. My condolences to his loved ones. [sic]

Divya Dutta: Rip ravi chopra! ShAll always remember your ever smiling face... [sic]

Payal Rohatgi: RIP #RaviChopra Sir. May God give strength to the family. A huge loss to the Indian Film Industry. [sic]

Tusshar Kapoor: RIP Mr Ravi Chopra, deep condolences for the entire family, may his soul rest in peace! [sic]