The Indian film industry is reeling from the loss of Pritish Nandy, the iconic writer, filmmaker, and media personality, who passed away on January 8, 2025, at the age of 73. Among those mourning his passing is filmmaker Hansal Mehta, who shared a deeply personal tribute, recalling the profound impact Nandy had on his career. In his post, Mehta expressed his sadness, writing, "You lived well, Mr. Nandy. Will miss you terribly," highlighting the filmmaker’s invaluable role in his journey.
Mehta fondly remembered their first meeting in 2005, when he pitched the idea for Omerta. Despite widespread skepticism, Nandy gave him the confidence to pursue the project. "Let’s make it," Nandy had said, providing Mehta the courage to follow his instincts and make the film. Though Nandy didn’t end up producing Omerta, Mehta credits him for helping to launch his career and for offering unwavering support during a time when others doubted him.
Nandy’s contributions to Indian cinema, including films like Kaante, Jhankaar Beats, Chameli, and Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi, left a lasting legacy. His work as a producer through Pritish Nandy Communications extended to the digital world as well, with hits like Four More Shots Please! and Modern Love Mumbai. But for Mehta, it was Nandy’s personal mentorship that made the greatest impact. "He gave me the strength to dare, to dream, and to tell stories that mattered to me — no matter what," Mehta wrote, highlighting how Nandy’s candid, energizing conversations shaped his filmmaking style.
In a final, poignant note, Mehta expressed how hard it was to accept that Nandy was gone, adding, "The past tense just isn’t for men like him." As the industry mourns the loss of this visionary, Nandy’s legacy lives on through the many filmmakers and artists he inspired, including Mehta, who will continue to carry his influence forward in their work.