Vijay Chavan will live on through his work: Ashok Saraf

When I think of Vijay Chavan, an ever smiling, helpful and jovial person comes to my mind. I remember meeting him about 20 years ago on a film’s set. It was one of those initial films we were doing together. He was much junior to me and had started his career somewhere around 1985.

The person I met then and the person I knew throughout our time together was the same. I did not see any change in his behaviour. He was and will always be known for his ability to light up any room with his positivity and comedy.

He was a great artiste. His comic timing and screen presence were brilliant. We went on to do many films together, including the popular Karayala Gelo Ek (2007). He started from zero and made a name for himself in the industry. Every film-maker wanted to cast him in their film, purely because of his acting capability and honest approach. He starred in many popular films namely Kho Kho (2013), Zapatlela (1993), Pachhadlela (2004) and Jatra (2006). His role in the play, Moru Chi Mavshi, is the highlight of his career.

Vijay left a mark in every role and film. If you watch his films, you will always remember his characters, because he would portray them with utmost sincerity. He was definitely one of the most talented artistes of our times, be it in films, theatre or television.

Professionally, he was known for his great comic timing, cooperation and acting sensibility. As a person, too, he was a favourite among many. He was a great human being.

He would come with positive vibes on the sets of every movie. He got along with just about everyone. I don’t remember a single controversy or fight he was involved in. In fact, I don’t remember him getting into arguments either. He was always full of life and fun. He would make everyone on the sets laugh with his wit and humour.

The best part about him was that he was always happy. And he ensured that he spread happiness too. He liked to be around people.

Vijay will be remembered for his good nature, comic timing and above all for being a great human being. He will live through his works and good deeds.

(As told to Anjali Shetty)

He was a very sensitive artiste: Sachin Pilgaonkar

My first impression of Vijay Chavan was that when I watched his play Moru Chi Mavshi. It is an adaptation by Acharya Atre of a popular English play Charlie’s Aunt. He played the character of the aunt so well that the play became a runway hit and Vijay became popular overnight. I remember loving his performance so much and going to watch the play the second time, this time with my mom and sister. The team was pleasantly surprised to see me back again. Also, I had not asked for passes and had bought tickets both the times.

That’s how it all started. He then entered the film industry. I remember meeting him at several occasions, function and get togethers after that. But we never had a chance to work together, yet we were close. He was a complete family man and had very high regards for his father. His friends who often say ‘Tula appanacha shappath’ to get him to stop or do something. He was a sensitive human being.

In 2014, I finally had a chance to work with him in Sangto Aika, this was when his illness (lung troubles) had begun.

I always admired him as an artiste but never had a chance to direct him. His health kept deteriorating post that and we lost him on Friday.

First Published: Aug 25, 2018 00:58 IST