BOLLYWOOD star Satish Kaushik has died after reportedly suffering a heart attack while traveling in a car in India.
The actor and filmmaker, 66, was journeying through the capital of Delhi when he instructed his driver to divert to the hospital.
Close pals told local media Satish “felt uneasy” and began complaining of being unwell in the motor at about 1am on Thursday morning.
The Mr India star was rushed to hospital, where doctors sadly pronounced him dead upon arrival.
His nephew Nishaan Kaushik told BBC Hindi that Satish had suffered a heart attack.
Tributes from Bollywood legends have begun to pour in for the renowned actor and director in wake of his sudden death.
Friend and fellow actor Anupam Kher told of his heartbreak at the news in a poignant Twitter post.
He wrote: “I know ‘death is the ultimate truth of this world!’
“But I never thought in my dreams that I would write this thing about my best friend #SatishKaushik while alive.
“Such a sudden full stop on friendship of 45 years!! Life will NEVER be the same without you SATISH! Om Shanti!”
Indian actress Kangana Ranaut said: “Woke up to this horrible news, he was my biggest cheerleader, a very successful actor and director #SatishKaushik ji personally was also a very kind and genuine man, I loved directing him in Emergency.
“He will be missed, Om Shanti.”
Priyanka Chopra added: “Om shanti Satish sir. Papa and you will be talking and laughing as you always did. You will be very missed.
“Thank you for bringing so much laughter into our lives. Sending love, prayers and strength to the family.”
Hindi cinema icon Manoj Bajpayee added that he was “completely shocked” to hear of Satish’s death.
He wrote: “What a great loss for all of us and his family! Condolences to his family and friends! May you rest in peace Satish Bhai!”