Veteran producer Salim Akhtar, who launched Rani Mukerji’s career, dies at 82-OxBig News Network

Salim Akhtar and Rani Mukerji
| Photo Credit: X/ @kamaalrkhan, PTI

Veteran Bollywood producer Salim Akhtar, known for shaping the early careers of stars like Rani Mukerji and Tamannaah Bhatia, died on Tuesday, April 8, at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. He was 82.

Akhtar produced Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat in 1997, marking Rani Mukerji’s entry into Hindi cinema. Years later, in 2005, he also launched Tamannaah Bhatia with Chand Sa Roshan Chehra. Both actors went on to become prominent names in the industry.

Though his family has not yet issued an official statement, industry insiders and fans have begun paying tribute to the filmmaker on social media. Among them, producer-actor Kamaal R. Khan posted about Akhtar’s passing, remembering his role in Rani Mukerji’s debut.

Akhtar leaves behind a legacy of films that made an impact during the 1980s and 1990s. His filmography includes Qayamat (1983), Loha (1987), Batwara (1989), Phool Aur Angaare (1993), and Baazi (1995). He also produced Badal (2000), starring Bobby Deol and Rani Mukerji, and Choron Ki Baraat (1980). Known for his commercial sensibility and consistent contributions to mainstream cinema, Akhtar was a key player during a transitional phase in Bollywood, bridging action-packed 80s hits with the dramatic arcs of the late 90s.

Akhtar is survived by his wife, Shama Akhtar, and son, Samad Akhtar.