Shammi loomed large on celluloid for long: Bal Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray has described Bollywood veteran Shammi Kapoor, who passed away yesterday, as a "powerful" and "versatile" actor.

Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray has described Bollywood veteran Shammi Kapoor, who passed away on Sunday, as a "powerful" and "versatile" actor.

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In a condolence message, Thackeray said Shammi's exuberant cry "yahoo" is unforgettable and will remain etched in memory.

He said he wanted to meet Shammi on learning about his ill-health. "Somehow I could not go," Thackeray lamented and recalled his fond and close association with the Kapoor family.

Recalling his relationship of love and respect with Raj Kapoor, Thackeray said, "One by one, pillars are collapsing. It is unfortunate. But what can we do."

The Sena chief said Shammi carved a niche for himself and he loomed large on the celluloid for a long time. "We can fill in potholes on the roads, but what about the vacuum left by such tall figures. How does one fill that," he asked.