'Some People Change..': Ajay Devgn Pens Emotional Note For Late 'Phool Aur Kaante' Director Kukku Kohli

Ajay Devgn has remembered filmmaker Kuku Kohli following his demise, recalling the director’s contribution to the beginning of his journey in Hindi cinema. Kohli, who introduced Devgn to Bollywood with the 1991 film Phool Aur Kaante, passed away on Tuesday after suffering a massive heart attack.

Devgn took to Instagram on Wednesday to share an emotional note for the filmmaker. Looking back at their association, the actor spoke about the impact Kohli had on his life and expressed gratitude for the confidence the director showed in him when he was a newcomer.

'Some people change the course of your life forever. Kuku ji was one of those people for me. Forever grateful for the faith you had in me. You will be deeply missed, Kuku ji. Om Shanti,' Devgn wrote.

Kohli, whose real name was Avtar Kohli, had been associated with the Hindi film industry for several years before stepping into direction. He worked with veteran filmmaker Raj Kapoor and also gained experience working with other directors before making his directorial debut.

His first film as a director, Phool Aur Kaante, also marked Devgn’s entry into Bollywood. The film gave audiences their first introduction to the actor and played an important role in establishing his image as an action star.

Devgn’s debut itself became memorable for a particular stunt sequence. In the film, the actor made his entry by performing a split between two moving motorcycles. The sequence became one of the most talked about aspects of the film and remains associated with Devgn’s early career.

Kohli continued directing films after Phool Aur Kaante and worked across different projects during his career. His directorial credits include Kohrram, Suhaag, Haqeeqat, Anari No.1, Yeh Dil Aashiqanaa and Woh Tera Naam Tha.

His professional association with Devgn dates back to the actor’s first film, making Kohli an important figure in the early phase of his career. Devgn’s latest tribute reflects on that connection, particularly the filmmaker’s decision to place his faith in an actor who was making his debut at the time.

Kuku Kohli was 77 at the time of his death. He is survived by actor Aruna Irani, his wife, and two daughters from a previous marriage.

The filmmaker’s last rites are scheduled to take place on Wednesday at the Oshiwara crematorium. As tributes continue to come in following his death, Devgn has remembered Kohli not only for his work behind the camera but also for the opportunity he gave him at the very start of his Bollywood career.